SBI PO (MT) Main New Exam Pattern 2025: New Descriptive Paper Pattern, Topics, Strategy & Practice
The State Bank of India Probationary Officer (SBI PO) Mains 2025 introduces a revised Descriptive Paper to assess aspiring officers’ writing and communication skills. Understanding the new pattern and practicing with the right strategy is crucial for success in this high-stakes exam.
Descriptive Paper – Communication Skills: Exam Pattern
The Descriptive Paper focuses on testing communication abilities through practical, work-related writing tasks. The latest structure is as follows:
| Section | Details | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory (1 out of 2 options) | 15 | 30 minutes | |
| Report | Compulsory (1 out of 2 options) | 15 | |
| Situation Analysis or Precis Writing | 1 of the 2 options | 20 | |
| Total | 50 | 30 minutes |
Key Instructions for Descriptive Writing
- Exam Duration: 30 minutes for the entire paper.
- Selection: Candidates must attempt the specified compulsory options; for “Situation Analysis or Precis Writing,” select one.
- Sections:
- Email writing
- Situation Analysis or Precis Writing
- Report writing
- Number of Questions: 3 main items; marks weightage as per section.
- Timer: Visible on-screen; server-based auto submission.
- Word Count: Limit displayed on test interface.
Test Structure & Scoring Details
- The paper requires writing 2 pieces: one Email and either Situation Analysis or Precis Writing (plus a report).
- Scoring will focus on Word Count, Spelling Errors, Grammar, and Context (especially for essay/precis).
- Sections must be answered and submitted in sequence; use “Save & Next” as directed.
- Post-test, sample answers (PDF) will be available for viewing.
Expert Strategy for Descriptive Paper Success
1. Know the Pattern & Practice Accordingly
- Practice mock emails, reports, and precis regularly.
- Focus on clear, concise, and formal business language.
- Analyze model answers and mark schemes (especially evaluation criteria: word count, grammar, context).
2. Time Management
- Allocate approx. 10 minutes per section initially, and use the final few minutes for revision.
- Maintain steady typing speed to avoid last-minute rush.
3. Content Quality
- Ensure logical structure: clear opening, focused body, and concise conclusion.
- Use relevant facts/examples when possible for Situation Analysis.
4. Technical Accuracy
- Watch for spelling and grammar errors—these impact your score directly.
- Adhere to format: email/report structure (subject, salutation, closing lines, etc.).
5. Mock Tests & Review
- Attempt sectional timed mocks and analyze feedback.
- Review “word count” limits and meet the minimum requirements for each task.
Practice Topics for SBI PO Descriptive Paper 2025
Email Writing (Samples)
- Write an email to a team explaining a new banking policy.
- Draft an email to HR reporting an incident at the branch.
Report Writing (Samples)
- Prepare a report on declining loan approvals and suggest strategies.
- Write a report on customer grievances received during the last quarter.
Situation Analysis/Precis Writing
- Summarize a passage about banking reforms.
- Analyze a case on digital fraud and suggest preventive steps.
Final Tips from The Prayas India
- Stay updated on current banking topics and practice writing on recent issues.
- Keep your writing crisp, well-organized, and factually correct.
- Use Prayas India’s test series and model answers for targeted practice.
Prepare thoroughly and boost your confidence for the SBI PO Mains 2025 Descriptive Paper by following this strategy-driven approach!
For more mock tests, sectional practice, and personalized mentoring, visit The Prayas India portal or contact your local center.
