SBI PO Mains Exam Update: In-Built Calculator Now Allowed in Data Analysis & Interpretation Test
State Bank of India (SBI) has introduced a major update for the SBI PO Mains Exam. Candidates can now use an in-built calculator for the Data Analysis & Interpretation section. Check full exam pattern and details here.
SBI PO Mains Exam Update: In-Built Calculator Permitted & Exam Pattern Details
State Bank of India (SBI) has announced an important update for candidates preparing for the SBI Probationary Officer (PO) Mains Examination. In a significant policy shift aimed at testing analytical abilities over manual computation, candidates will now be permitted to use an in-built calculator on their computer screens during the Data Analysis & Interpretation section of the examination.
Key Highlight: Calculator Availability
As per the revised instructions released for the SBI PO Mains exam, an on-screen digital calculator will be made available directly within the examination interface for Test II (Data Analysis & Interpretation). Candidates do not need to carry any physical calculator to the examination hall as external electronic items remain strictly prohibited.
SBI PO Mains Exam Pattern Overview
The SBI PO Mains exam consists of two parts: an Objective Test (200 Marks) followed by a Descriptive Test (30 Marks).
1. Objective Test Structure
| Test | Name of the Test | No. of Qs. | Maximum Marks | Duration | Version |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 40 | 60 | 50 minutes | Bilingual |
| II | Data Analysis & Interpretation | 30 | 60 | 45 minutes | Bilingual |
| III | General Awareness / Economy / Banking Knowledge | 60 | 60 | 45 minutes | Bilingual |
| IV | English Language | 40 | 20 | 40 minutes | English |
| TOTAL | Objective Test Total | 170 | 200 | 3 hours | - |
Note: For the test of Data Analysis & Interpretation, the use of an in-built calculator is permitted on the computer screen.
2. Descriptive Test Structure
The Descriptive Test will be conducted online immediately after the completion of the Objective Test. Candidates must type their answers using the keyboard.
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Total Marks: 30 marks
- Language: English language only
| Test Section | Name of the Test | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (ii) | Communication Skills | 3 out of 6 | 30 | 30 minutes |
| I | Emails Writing | 1 out of 2 | 10 | - |
| II | Situation Analysis Writing | 1 out of 2 | 10 | - |
| III | Report Writing / Précis Writing | 1 out of 2 | 10 | - |
| - | Grand Total | 3 Questions | 30 Marks | 30 minutes |
What This Means for Aspirants
With the inclusion of an on-screen calculator in the Data Analysis & Interpretation section, candidates can expect the level of questions to focus more on complex data interpretation, caselets, logical DI, and multi-layered problem-solving rather than pure numerical calculations. Aspirants are advised to practice using digital on-screen calculators during mock tests to get accustomed to speed and keying accuracy.