SBI Junior Associate (Clerk) Syllabus

The SBI Junior Associate (Clerk) exam is one of India’s most competitive banking examinations. Conducted by the State Bank of India (SBI), the exam recruits candidates for clerical positions in branches nationwide. Each year, thousands of aspirants compete to secure a stable banking career.

The exam is designed to test a candidate’s reasoning ability, quantitative aptitude, English language skills, general awareness, and computer knowledge, along with proficiency in the local language for candidates from certain states. To crack this exam, it is essential to have a complete understanding of the syllabus, exam pattern, and preparation strategies.

This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the syllabus, section-wise topics, preparation tips, FAQs, and suggested resources. Whether you are a first-time aspirant or aiming to improve your previous attempt, understanding the syllabus thoroughly is crucial to prioritize your study plan, strengthen weak areas, and maximize your score.

1. SBI Junior Associate Exam Pattern

SBI Junior Associate Exam consists of three stages – Prelims, Mains, and Language Proficiency Test.

1.1 Prelims Exam Pattern

Note: Prelims is qualifying in nature, and marks are not counted for final selection.

1.2 Mains Exam Pattern

Note: Marks obtained in Mains determine final selection.

1.3 Language Proficiency Test

• Candidates must qualify in the local language test for the state applied.

• Focus: Reading, writing, and speaking skills.

2. SBI Junior Associate Prelims Syllabus

The Prelims exam tests speed and accuracy in three sections.

2.1 English Language

Topics Covered:

• Reading Comprehension (Short passages)

• Cloze Test (Fill in the blanks)

• Spotting Errors (Grammar correction)

• Sentence Improvement & Correction

• Para Jumbles (Arrange sentences logically)

• Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms & Phrases)

• Fill in the Blanks (Context-based)

Tips:

• Read newspapers daily to improve comprehension.

• Learn 10–15 new words daily with meanings and usage.

2.2 Numerical Ability

Topics Covered:

• Simplification / Approximation

• Number Series

• Data Interpretation (Tables, Pie Charts, Bar Graphs, Line Graphs)

• Quadratic Equations

• Arithmetic Problems:

  • Profit & Loss

  • Simple & Compound Interest

  • Time, Speed & Distance

  • Time & Work

  • Mixtures & Allegations

  • Averages

  • Percentages

  • Ratio & Proportion

• Mensuration & Geometry Basics

• Data Sufficiency

Tips:

• Practice previous years’ questions daily.

• Focus on mental calculation for speed.

2.3 Reasoning Ability

Topics Covered:

• Puzzles & Seating Arrangements (Linear, Circular, Square)

• Inequalities & Syllogism

• Blood Relations & Direction Sense

• Coding-Decoding

• Order & Ranking

• Alphanumeric Series

• Input-Output

• Statements & Assumptions / Conclusions

Tips:

• Solve 2–3 puzzles daily.

• Focus on improving logical reasoning accuracy.

3. SBI Junior Associate Mains Syllabus

Mains exam tests advanced skills in reasoning, quantitative aptitude, English, general awareness, and computer knowledge.

3.1 General/Financial Awareness

Topics Covered:

• Current Affairs (Last 6–12 months)

• Banking Awareness:

  • Types of Banks

  • RBI Policies (Repo, Reverse Repo, CRR, SLR)

  • Banking Terms & Functions

• Government Schemes and Initiatives

• Financial Terms & Concepts

• Budget & Economic News

• Important Appointments & Awards

Tips:

• Follow RBI updates and monthly banking magazines.

• Make short notes for revision.

3.2 General English

Topics Covered:

• Reading Comprehension (Long passages)

• Cloze Test

• Error Detection & Sentence Correction

• Para Jumbles & Paragraph Completion

• Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms, Phrases)

• Fill in the Blanks (Grammar-focused)

Tips:

• Practice comprehension passages daily.

• Revise grammar rules regularly.

3.3 Quantitative Aptitude

Topics Covered:

• Data Interpretation (Tables, Pie Charts, Line Graphs, Bar Graphs)

• Simplification / Approximation

• Ratio, Percentage, Averages

• Profit & Loss, Time, Speed & Distance, Time & Work

• Simple & Compound Interest, Mixtures & Allegations

• Quadratic Equations & Arithmetic Word Problems

• Probability & Permutation/Combination

Tips:

• Practice daily with a mix of easy, moderate, and high-level questions.

• Focus on shortcuts and tricks for quick calculations.

3.4 Reasoning Ability & Computer Knowledge

Reasoning Topics:

• Advanced Puzzles & Seating Arrangements

• Coding-Decoding & Input-Output

• Logical Reasoning (Arguments, Assumptions, Statements & Conclusions)

• Inequalities & Syllogism

• Order & Ranking

Computer Knowledge Topics:

• Computer Basics: Hardware, Software, Input/Output devices

• MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint basics

• Internet & Networking Basics

• Database Concepts

• Cyber Security & Computer Abbreviations

Tips:

• Focus on fundamental computer concepts.

• Practice logical reasoning daily for accuracy.

4. Language Proficiency Test

• Candidates must qualify in local language for the state applied.

• Skills tested: Reading, Writing, Speaking

• It is qualifying in nature, but essential for final selection.

5. Preparation Tips for SBI Junior Associate

1. Time Management: Allocate time based on section difficulty and strengths.

2. Mock Tests: Regular practice improves speed, accuracy, and confidence.

3. Current Affairs: Stay updated with banking news, RBI notifications, government schemes.

4. Revision: Revise formulas, reasoning tricks, and vocabulary frequently.

5. Previous Papers: Solve past year papers to understand question patterns.

6. Sectional Strategy: Identify strong and weak sections for focused preparation.

7. Consistency: Daily study and practice are key to success.

6. FAQs – SBI Junior Associate Syllabus

1. How many stages are in SBI Clerk exam?

• Prelims, Mains, and Language Proficiency Test.

2. Is Prelims qualifying?

• Yes, only marks in Mains are considered for final selection.

3. Which subjects are included in Prelims?

• English Language, Numerical Ability, Reasoning Ability.

4. Which subjects are in Mains?

• General/Financial Awareness, General English, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning & Computer Knowledge.

5. Are there negative marks?

• Yes, 0.25 marks deducted for wrong answers.

6. How to prepare for banking awareness?

• Follow RBI updates, newspapers, and banking magazines.

7. Is computer knowledge important?

• Yes, Mains includes basic computer questions.

8. Are sectional cut-offs applied?

• Yes, both sectional and overall cut-offs are considered.

9. How to improve English?

• Daily reading, comprehension practice, grammar exercises, and vocabulary building.

10. How to manage time during the exam?

• Practice mock tests and timed exercises to improve speed.