How to Prepare for Bank Exams Without Coaching – Self Study Tips
Cracking bank exams like IBPS, SBI PO, RBI, or Clerk level exams is a dream for many aspirants in India. However, not everyone can afford expensive coaching classes. The good news is that with the right strategy, dedication, and smart study methods, you can easily prepare for bank exams without coaching. In fact, many toppers have cleared these exams solely through self-study.
In this guide, we’ll share step-by-step self-study tips, exam strategies, and preparation resources to help you succeed.
Why Choose Self-Study Over Coaching?
- Cost-Effective: Saves money compared to high coaching fees.
- Flexible Schedule: You decide your study hours.
- Personalized Learning: Focus on weak areas at your own pace.
- Digital Resources: Free/affordable study material available online.
- Success Stories: Thousands of aspirants have cleared bank exams with self-study.
Step-by-Step Self Study Plan for Bank Exams
1. Understand the Bank Exam Pattern & Syllabus
The first step is to know the exam structure. Most bank exams (like IBPS, SBI, RBI) follow:
- Preliminary Exam (Screening test)
- Mains Exam (Subjective & higher difficulty)
- Interview/Group Discussion (For officer-level posts)
Key Subjects to Prepare:
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Reasoning Ability
- English Language
- General Awareness (Banking & Current Affairs)
- Computer Knowledge (for some exams)
2. Create a Realistic Study Schedule
- Dedicate 6–8 hours daily (working aspirants can adjust to 3–4 hours).
- Break subjects into time slots – e.g., Morning for Quant & Reasoning, Evening for English & GK.
- Reserve 1 hour daily for mock tests & revision.
3. Focus on Each Section
Quantitative Aptitude
- Strengthen basics of arithmetic (percentage, ratio, averages, profit-loss, SI & CI).
- Practice Data Interpretation (DI) daily.
- Use short tricks for speed.
Reasoning Ability
- Practice puzzles, seating arrangement, blood relations, and coding-decoding.
- Focus on speed and accuracy.
English Language
- Improve vocabulary with daily reading (newspapers, The Hindu, Economic Times).
- Practice comprehension, cloze test, and error spotting.
General Awareness (GA)
- Read daily current affairs (focus on banking, RBI updates, govt schemes).
- Revise last 6 months current affairs before exam.
Computer Knowledge
- Learn basics of MS Office, networking, internet, and shortcuts.
4. Use the Right Study Material
Instead of buying bulky coaching notes, use:
- Books:
- Quant: RS Aggarwal, Arun Sharma
- Reasoning: MK Pandey, R.S. Aggarwal
- English: S.P. Bakshi, Norman Lewis (Word Power Made Easy)
- GK: Lucent, Manorama Yearbook
- Websites & Apps: AffairsCloud, Gradeup, Oliveboard, Adda247.
- Daily Practice: Solve previous year papers & mock tests.
5. Mock Tests & Previous Papers
- Attempt mock tests every week to analyze strengths & weaknesses.
- Solve at least 10 previous years’ question papers.
- Focus on time management – it’s the key to clearing prelims.
6. Revision Strategy
- Revise formulas, vocab, and current affairs regularly.
- Maintain a separate notebook for shortcuts & GK notes.
- Dedicate last 15 days before exam only for revision & practice tests.
Bonus Self Study Tips
✅ Stay away from distractions (limit social media usage).
✅ Take short breaks to avoid burnout.
✅ Join online Telegram/WhatsApp study groups for doubt-solving.
✅ Believe in consistency – even 2 hours daily for 6 months can crack the exam.
Conclusion
Preparing for bank exams without coaching is absolutely possible if you follow a disciplined self-study plan. With the right books, mock tests, and current affairs updates, you can clear exams like IBPS PO, SBI Clerk, or RBI Assistant without spending thousands on coaching institutes.
Remember – self-study + consistency + smart work = Success.
Start today, stay consistent, and your dream bank job will be within reach!
FAQs on Self Study for Bank Exams
Q1. Can I crack bank exams without coaching?
Yes, thousands of candidates have cleared IBPS, SBI, and RBI exams through self-study and online resources.
Q2. How many hours should I study daily?
Ideally 6–8 hours for full-time aspirants, and 3–4 hours for working professionals.
Q3. Which is the toughest section in bank exams?
For most students, Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning are challenging, but with practice they become manageable.
Q4. Is 6 months enough for bank exam preparation?
Yes, with a disciplined plan and daily practice, 6 months are enough to crack prelims and mains.
Q5. What is the best source for current affairs?
Monthly magazines like Bankers Adda, AffairsCloud, and newspapers like The Hindu are highly recommended.
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