IBPS Clerk 2024: Your Guide to Preparation, Application, and Exam Pattern

Get Ready to Crack the IBPS Clerk 2024 Exam!

The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) has announced the dates for the IBPS Clerk 2024 exam. Mark your calendars:

• Preliminary Exam: August 24th, 25th, and 31st, 2024
• Mains Exam: October 13th, 2024

With the exams approaching fast, it’s time to kickstart your preparation. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the IBPS Clerk 2024 exam, from application details to effective preparation strategies.

Important Dates to Remember

• Application Window: July 1st to July 21st, 2024
• Apply Online: ibps.in

Who Can Apply?

• Graduates from any recognized university are eligible.
• Age Limit: 20 to 28 years (Relaxations for reserved categories)
• Born Between: July 2nd, 1996, and July 1st, 2004 (inclusive)
• Computer Skills: You should be comfortable using computers and have basic knowledge of computer operations. This could be through a subject in school/college or a separate certificate/diploma.
• Language Proficiency: You should be proficient in the official language of your state or Union Territory.
• Clean Credit History: A good credit score is essential. You might need to provide a CIBIL score update or a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your lender if there are any discrepancies.

IBPS Clerk 2024: What’s at Stake?

This year, IBPS is looking to fill 6,148 vacancies across 11 participating banks:

• Bank of Baroda
• Canara Bank
• Indian Overseas Bank
• UCO Bank
• Bank of India
• Central Bank of India
• Punjab National Bank
• Union Bank of India
• Bank of Maharashtra
• Indian Bank
• Punjab and Sind Bank

Understanding the Exam Pattern

The IBPS Clerk exam has two stages:

1. Preliminary Exam:

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Total Marks: 100
• Sections:
  • English Language (30 questions, 30 marks)
  • Numerical Ability (35 questions, 35 marks)
  • Reasoning Ability (35 questions, 30 marks)

Important: You need to clear the cut-off for each section in the Prelims to qualify for the Mains exam.

2. Mains Exam:

• Duration: 160 minutes
• Total Marks: 200
• Sections:
  • Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude (50 questions, 60 marks) - 35 minutes
  • General/Financial Awareness (50 questions, 50 marks) - 35 minutes
  • English Language (50 questions, 50 marks) - 45 minutes
  • Quantitative Aptitude (40 questions, 40 marks) - 45 minutes

Note: The IBPS website (ibps.in) is your go-to source for any updates or changes in the exam pattern.

Negative Marking:

• Penalty: 0.25 marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer.
• Unattempted Questions: No negative marking for unanswered questions.

How to Apply for IBPS Clerk 2024

1. Visit the IBPS Website: Go to ibps.in
2. Find the Link: Look for the “IBPS Clerk Apply Online” link.
3. Register: Create an account with your details.
4. Fill the Application Form: Provide all the required information accurately.
5. Upload Documents: Upload your photograph, signature, left thumb impression, and a handwritten declaration as per the instructions.
6. Pay the Fee: The application fee varies based on your category. Make the payment online.
7. Print Your Application: Take a printout of the completed application form for future reference.

Preparation Tips: Ace the IBPS Clerk 2024 Exam

• Create a Study Plan: Divide your time wisely, focusing on your strengths and weaknesses.
• Consistency is Key: Study regularly for at least 5-6 hours a day.
• Understand the Syllabus: Get a thorough understanding of all the topics and their weightage.
• Choose the Right Study Material: Select the best books and study guides based on the latest syllabus.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests regularly.
• Analyze Your Performance: Identify your weak areas and work on them.
• Revise Regularly: Don’t wait till the last minute. Consistent revision is crucial for retention.
• Stay Updated: Keep checking the IBPS website for any notifications or changes.

Remember: Success in the IBPS Clerk 2024 exam requires dedication, hard work, and a strategic approach. Stay focused, stay positive, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your goal!