How to Prepare for Banking Exams While Studying or Working

Preparing for banking exams like SBI PO, IBPS PO, SBI Clerk, IBPS Clerk, and RRB exams while managing college studies or a full-time job can feel challenging. Limited time, mental fatigue, and daily responsibilities often make consistent preparation difficult. However, with the right strategy, smart planning, and discipline, it is completely possible to crack banking exams alongside studies or work. Check out how to prepare effectively for banking exams without quitting your studies or job.

Check Out: PW Banking Books

Understand the Banking Exam Syllabus First

Before starting preparation, clearly understand the exam pattern and syllabus. Most banking exams test similar subjects:

• Quantitative Aptitude

• Reasoning Ability

• English Language

• General / Banking Awareness

• Computer Awareness (in some exams)

Knowing this helps you avoid wasting time on unnecessary topics and focus only on what matters.

Create Daily Banking Exam Study Plan

Time management is the biggest challenge for students and working professionals.

For College Students

• Study 2–3 hours on weekdays

• Increase to 4–5 hours on weekends

• Use free time between classes effectively

For Working Professionals

• Study 1.5–2 hours on weekdays

• Wake up early or study after work

• Use weekends for revision and mock tests

The key is consistency, not long hours. Even 2 focused hours daily are enough if used well.

Check Out: Govt Entrance Exams Books

Focus on One Banking Exam at a Time

Many candidates try to prepare for multiple exams at once, which leads to confusion.

• Start with one target exam (e.g., SBI PO or IBPS Clerk)

• Since the syllabus is similar, preparation will automatically help for other exams later

• Avoid switching exam goals frequently

Strengthen Basics Before Speed

Strong basics save time in the exam.

• Learn formulas and shortcuts in Quant

• Practice basic puzzles and seating arrangements in Reasoning

• Improve grammar rules and vocabulary in English

Do not rush into speed practice before understanding concepts. Speed comes naturally with practice.

Practice Daily with Sectional Tests

Daily practice is essential for improvement.

• Attempt one sectional test per day

• Analyze mistakes carefully

• Maintain an error notebook

This approach helps you improve accuracy and identify weak areas early.

Use Short Breaks for General Awareness

General Awareness does not require long study hours.

• Read banking news during breaks

• Use mobile apps for daily current affairs

• Revise weekly and monthly capsules

Studying GA for 20–30 minutes daily is enough if done regularly.

Take Mock Tests Weekly

Mock tests are essential for banking exam preparation.

• Start with 1 mock per week

• Increase to 2–3 mocks closer to the exam

• Focus more on analysis than scores

Mock tests help you:

• Improve time management

• Understand exam-level difficulty

• Reduce exam fear

Read More: How to Crack Bank Exam in First Attempt: Tips & Strategies

Avoid Burnout and Stay Motivated

Balancing work or studies with exam preparation can be tiring.

• Take short breaks

• Get proper sleep

• Avoid overloading yourself

Remember why you started. Banking exams require patience and consistency, not stress.

Smart Revision Strategy

Revision is more important than learning new topics daily.

• Revise formulas weekly

• Reattempt incorrect questions

• Revise GA notes frequently

Without revision, most preparation effort goes wasted.

Use Limited Resources Wisely

Avoid using too many books or courses.

• One good book or course per subject is enough

• Focus on practice and revision

• Too many resources create confusion

PW Banking Study Material

PW Banking Study Material is designed to help students prepare easily and confidently for bank exams. The content is explained in simple language with clear concepts, solved examples, and plenty of practice questions. It covers all important subjects like Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English, and General Awareness. Regular mock tests and previous year questions help students improve speed and accuracy. With structured lessons and expert guidance, PW study material makes banking preparation more effective and stress-free.

Book Name	Products Link
KYC Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability and English Language Combo Set of 3 Books	Link
22 SBI Clerk Prelims & Mains Previous Year Solved Papers (Till April 2025) with 5 Online Mock Tests For 2025-26 Exam	Link
22 SBI PO Prelims & Mains Previous Year Solved Papers	Link
IBPS PO 25 Year-wise Prelims & Mains Previous Year Solved Papers	Link
IBPS Clerk 25 Year-wise Prelims & Mains Previous Year Solved Papers	Link
All in One IBPS RRB Clerk Prelims & Mains Exams Previous Year Paper	Link
20 Yearwise IBPS RRB PO & Clerk Prelims & Mains Previous Years’ Solved Papers	Link

Prepare for Banking Exams While Studying or Working FAQs

Can working professionals really clear banking exams?

Yes. Many successful candidates have cleared banking exams while working full-time by following a disciplined study routine.

How many hours are enough for banking exam preparation?

• Students: 3–4 hours daily

• Working professionals: 1.5–3 hours daily
  Consistency matters more than long hours.

Is coaching necessary for banking exams?

Coaching is helpful but not compulsory. With the right study material, mock tests, and self-discipline, self-study is enough.

How long does it take to prepare for banking exams?

On average:

• Beginners: 6–8 months

• Candidates with basic knowledge: 4–5 months

Which section should I focus on first?

Start with your weakest section, but do not ignore stronger sections completely.