Home » SBI Clerk Mains Exam Analysis 2026: Good Attempts

SBI Clerk Mains Exam Analysis 2026: 29 October Shift 1 Review

The SBI Clerk Mains Exam Analysis 2026
for 29 October provides a detailed overview of the question paper,
section-wise difficulty, good attempts, and important topics.
The State Bank of India (SBI) conducted the examination for
1,538 backlog vacancies
under its special recruitment drive for Junior Associates.

The online examination included
190 objective questions carrying 200 marks.
Candidates received 160 minutes to complete four separately timed sections.

Based on one published candidate-feedback assessment, the examination
was rated Easy to Moderate,
with estimated good attempts ranging from
124 to 144 questions.
However, other candidate-based reviews reported lower ranges.
Therefore, these figures should be used as general performance
indicators rather than official qualifying marks.

Candidates can explore the complete
SBI Clerk Mains 29 October Exam Analysis 2026
below, including the examination pattern, question types,
section-wise review, and preparation insights.

190
Total Questions
200
Maximum Marks
160
Minutes
4
Exam Sections

SBI Clerk Mains Exam Analysis 2026 Overview

The State Bank of India conducted the SBI Clerk Mains examination on
29 October 2026 for its special backlog recruitment drive.

The recruitment covered 1,538 Junior Associate vacancies under
advertisement number CRPD/CR/SPLDRIVE/2026-27/16.

The Mains examination assessed candidates in four areas:
English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability and
Computer Aptitude, and General/Financial Awareness.

SBI Clerk Mains 2026 Exam Highlights

ParticularsDetails
Conducting OrganizationState Bank of India
ExaminationSBI Clerk Mains 2026
Post NameJunior Associate
Recruitment TypeSpecial Backlog Recruitment
Advertisement NumberCRPD/CR/SPLDRIVE/2026-27/16
Total Vacancies1,538
Examination Date29 October 2026
Examination ModeOnline
Total Questions190
Maximum Marks200
Number of Sections4
Total Duration160 Minutes
Reported DifficultyEasy to Moderate in one candidate-based assessment

Important:
The examination was held for backlog recruitment.
It is separate from the regular SBI Clerk recruitment process.

SBI Clerk Mains Exam Difficulty Level 2026

The SBI Clerk Mains difficulty level helps candidates
understand the complexity of the paper and evaluate their performance.

One candidate-feedback assessment rated the overall examination
Easy to Moderate. However, difficulty ratings differed across
published reviews.

Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning included calculation-intensive
and analytical questions. Meanwhile, English and General Awareness
tested comprehension, factual knowledge, and conceptual understanding.

Section-Wise Difficulty Level

SectionReported Difficulty
General EnglishEasy to Moderate
Quantitative AptitudeModerate
Reasoning and Computer AptitudeModerate
General/Financial AwarenessEasy to Moderate
OverallEasy to Moderate

These ratings represent one candidate-based examination assessment
and are not official SBI difficulty classifications.

Important Observations

General English:
Reading comprehension, grammar, and sentence arrangement appeared among the recalled topics.
Quantitative Aptitude:
Arithmetic and Data Interpretation required accurate calculations.
Reasoning Ability:
Puzzles, seating arrangements, and coded reasoning were important areas.
General Awareness:
Questions covered banking, finance, government schemes, sports, and general knowledge.

The overall paper rewarded effective question selection and careful time management.

SBI Clerk Mains Good Attempts 2026 – Shift 1

The SBI Clerk Mains Good Attempts 2026
indicate the approximate number of questions candidates may attempt
while maintaining satisfactory accuracy.

One reported analysis suggested an overall range of
124–144 questions.
However, good-attempt estimates vary between examination reviews.

ESTIMATED GOOD ATTEMPTS
124–144
Questions out of 190
Unofficial candidate-feedback estimate

Therefore, candidates should not use this range as an official cut-off prediction.

SBI Clerk Mains Section-Wise Good Attempts

SectionTotal QuestionsGood Attempts
General English4028–34
Quantitative Aptitude5036–38
Reasoning and Computer Aptitude5032–38
General/Financial Awareness5028–34
Total190124–144

Note:
The table reflects one published candidate-feedback estimate.
Other assessments reported different good-attempt ranges.

How Should Candidates Evaluate Their Attempts?

Attempting more questions does not always result in a higher score.
Accuracy and negative marking also influence final performance.

For example, a candidate who attempts fewer questions with strong accuracy
may perform better than someone who attempts more questions but makes several mistakes.

Important Performance Factors

  • Number of correct responses.
  • Number of incorrect answers.
  • Negative marking.
  • Overall marks obtained.
  • State-wise and category-wise competition.
  • Applicable selection criteria.
Key Takeaway:
As a result, expected marks offer a more useful performance reference
than attempts alone.

SBI Clerk Mains Section-Wise Exam Review 2026

The section-wise analysis highlights the question types reported after the examination.

It also identifies important preparation areas for future banking examinations.

SBI Clerk Mains General Awareness Analysis 2026

The General/Financial Awareness section consisted of
50 questions carrying 50 marks,
with a time limit of 35 minutes.

Questions covered banking concepts, financial institutions,
government initiatives, sports, geography, and current affairs.

Important General Awareness Topics

The following areas appeared in the memory-based question discussions.

Banking and Financial Awareness

  • Credit rating agencies and their regulatory framework.
  • Mutual fund regulation.
  • Functions of major banking institutions.
  • NABARD financing initiatives.
  • SIDBI leadership.
  • Senior Citizens’ Savings Scheme.
  • National Pension System contributions.
  • Financial Intelligence Unit.
  • National Stock Exchange.
  • Government decisions on Minimum Support Price.
  • GST identification numbers.
  • Bulk payment systems.

Government Schemes and Polity

  • PM Surya Ghar Yojana.
  • Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY.
  • Agriculture-related government initiatives.
  • Godhan scheme.
  • National e-Vidhan Application.
  • Lok Sabha and parliamentary procedures.
  • State Finance Commission.
  • Border Roads Organisation.
  • Government sponsorship programmes.

Sports, Geography and General Knowledge

  • Commonwealth Games.
  • Asian Games boxing.
  • Chief of Defence Staff.
  • National parks in India.
  • Garden City of India.
  • Teesta River.
  • High-altitude motorable roads.
  • Indian space missions.
  • Natural satellites.
  • World Humanitarian Day.
  • Film awards.
  • Books and authors.

Additional topics reportedly covered abbreviations, state-related facts, and historical institutions.

These subjects are based on candidates’ recollections. They should not be treated as a complete official question paper.

General Awareness Preparation Tips

Candidates should prepare banking awareness and current affairs together.

Additionally, reviewing government schemes, financial developments, and national events can strengthen conceptual knowledge.

Daily revision and short topic-wise quizzes may help improve recall speed.

SBI Clerk Mains English Language Analysis 2026

The English Language section included
40 questions for 40 marks.
Candidates received 35 minutes to complete the section.

The recalled questions covered reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and sentence organisation.

English Language Topic-Wise Questions

TopicReported Questions
Reading ComprehensionApproximately 16–18
Error Detection4
Para Jumbles5
Double Fillers4
Phrase Replacement3
Sentence Connectors4
Miscellaneous2–3

The available memory-based counts are approximate and do not reconcile exactly with the official total of 40 questions.

English Language Key Highlights

Reading Comprehension
Two reading passages were reported. Candidates needed to identify key information and understand the meaning of sentences within context.
Para Jumbles
A sentence-arrangement exercise tested candidates’ ability to organise ideas into a logical sequence.
Error Detection
Grammar-based questions focused on identifying errors in sentence construction.
Double Fillers
These questions required selecting suitable words to complete statements.
Phrase Replacement
Candidates needed to identify grammatically appropriate alternatives.

English Language Preparation Strategy

Regular reading improves comprehension and vocabulary.

Furthermore, grammar exercises and sentence-arrangement questions can develop accuracy.

Candidates should also practise sectional mock tests to improve speed within the allotted time.

SBI Clerk Mains Quantitative Aptitude Analysis 2026

The Quantitative Aptitude section included
50 questions carrying 50 marks.

Candidates received 45 minutes to complete the section.

Arithmetic and Data Interpretation were important areas in the reported paper. These questions required numerical accuracy and an understanding of basic mathematical concepts.

Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Analysis

TopicReported Questions
Arithmetic11
Approximation5
Pie Chart Data Interpretation5
Table Data Interpretation5
Line and Table Data Interpretation5
Caselet Data Interpretation5
Number Series2–3
Quadratic Equations3
Quantity Comparison4
Data Sufficiency3

The recalled distribution accounts for approximately 48–49 questions. Exact topic counts are not fully confirmed.

Major Quantitative Aptitude Topics

Arithmetic
Arithmetic questions assessed numerical problem-solving ability. Topics such as percentages, ratios, and related applications remain useful preparation areas.
Data Interpretation
Different formats tested candidates’ ability to analyse and compare numerical information.
Approximation
Approximation questions required quick calculations and estimation techniques.
Quadratic Equations
Candidates needed to apply mathematical rules to solve or compare expressions.
Data Sufficiency
These questions assessed whether the available information could support a definite conclusion.

Quantitative Aptitude Preparation Tips

Candidates should practise arithmetic concepts daily and improve their calculation speed.

Moreover, solving Data Interpretation sets regularly can strengthen numerical reasoning.

Timed practice sessions help candidates identify manageable questions and avoid unnecessary delays.

SBI Clerk Mains Reasoning Ability Analysis 2026

The Reasoning Ability and Computer Aptitude section consisted of
50 questions carrying 60 marks.

The allotted duration was 45 minutes.

Questions reportedly involved puzzles, seating arrangements, machine input-output, coding, and logical relationships.

Reasoning Ability Topic-Wise Analysis

TopicReported Questions
Machine Input–Output5
Box-Based Puzzle5
Floor and Flat Arrangement5
Month-Based Puzzle5
Circular Seating Arrangement5
New Pattern Coding4–5
Coded Blood Relations4–5
Year-Based Puzzle1
Comparison-Based Puzzle3
Coded Syllogism3
Conversation-Based Question1
Simple Coding1

This recalled list accounts for approximately 42–44 questions and is not a complete verified distribution of the section.

Reasoning Ability Key Highlights

Puzzle-Based Questions
Different arrangement problems tested logical thinking and the ability to organise information.
Seating Arrangements
Questions required candidates to understand positions and relationships between individuals.
Machine Input–Output
Candidates needed to recognise patterns and determine how information changed between steps.
Coding and Blood Relations
These questions tested the interpretation of symbols, coded statements, and family relationships.
Syllogism
Candidates needed to determine which conclusions followed logically from the given statements.

Reasoning Ability Preparation Strategy

Solving puzzles regularly can improve analytical thinking.

However, candidates should avoid spending excessive time on unfamiliar arrangements.

Instead, starting with manageable questions can help maintain accuracy and preserve time for more demanding problems.

SBI Clerk Mains Exam Pattern 2026

The SBI Clerk Mains Exam Pattern 2026 consisted of four sections with separate time limits.

Candidates had to answer 190 objective questions carrying 200 marks within 160 minutes.

Section-Wise SBI Clerk Mains Exam Pattern

SectionQuestionsMarksDuration
General English404035 Minutes
Quantitative Aptitude505045 Minutes
Reasoning and Computer Aptitude506045 Minutes
General/Financial Awareness505035 Minutes
Total190200160 Minutes

SBI Clerk Mains Marking Scheme

The examination followed an objective-type format.

For every incorrect answer, a penalty equal to one-fourth of the marks assigned to that question applied.

Therefore, random guessing could reduce the final score.

Candidates should prioritise accurate responses and manage their sectional time effectively.

SBI Clerk Mains Cut Off 2026

The SBI Clerk Mains Cut Off 2026 will be an important indicator of the marks required under the applicable selection criteria.

However, estimated good attempts do not establish an official cut-off.

Several factors may influence the selection threshold:

  • Number of vacancies.
  • Candidate performance.
  • Examination difficulty.
  • Category-wise competition.
  • State-wise recruitment requirements.
  • Applicable selection rules.

Candidates should check the official State Bank of India recruitment portal for authenticated announcements.

Official SBI Careers Website:

https://sbi.co.in/web/careers

How to Estimate Your SBI Clerk Mains Score

Candidates can calculate a tentative raw score after comparing their responses with a reliable answer key.

The general calculation method is:


Estimated Score = Marks from Correct Answers − Penalty for Incorrect Answers

The penalty depends on the marks assigned to each question. Therefore, candidates should use the correct section-wise marking scheme.

For more reliable score estimation, consider the following steps:

  1. Identify the number of correct answers in each section.
  2. Calculate the marks earned from correct responses.
  3. Determine the negative marks for incorrect answers.
  4. Subtract the penalties from the earned marks.
  5. Add the section-wise scores to estimate the total.

This calculation provides only a tentative score. The official result remains the final authority.

Important Lessons from SBI Clerk Mains 2026

The examination review offers several useful insights for future aspirants.

Focus on Accuracy

A higher number of attempts does not always mean a higher score. Candidates should avoid unnecessary guesses.

Develop Calculation Speed

Arithmetic and Data Interpretation require regular numerical practice.

Improve Logical Reasoning

Puzzles and seating arrangements become easier with familiarity and systematic practice.

Revise Current Affairs Regularly

Banking awareness, government schemes, and financial developments require consistent revision.

Practise Sectional Mock Tests

Timed practice helps candidates become familiar with fixed examination durations.

Together, these preparation strategies can improve confidence and examination readiness.

SBI Clerk Mains Exam Analysis 2026 FAQs

Q1. What was the difficulty level of SBI Clerk Mains 2026?

One candidate-feedback review rated the examination held on 29 October 2026 as Easy to Moderate. However, difficulty assessments differed across reviews.

Q2. What were the SBI Clerk Mains good attempts in 2026?

One reported estimate suggested 124–144 good attempts. Other reviews reported lower ranges, so candidates should not treat any estimate as an official benchmark.

Q3. How many questions were asked in SBI Clerk Mains 2026?

The examination included 190 objective questions carrying 200 marks.

Q4. What was the duration of SBI Clerk Mains 2026?

Candidates received 160 minutes, equivalent to 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Q5. Which subjects were included in the SBI Clerk Mains examination?

The paper included English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability and Computer Aptitude, and General/Financial Awareness.

Q6. What topics were important in Quantitative Aptitude?

Arithmetic, Data Interpretation, Approximation, Quadratic Equations, and Data Sufficiency were among the reported topics.

Q7. Which topics appeared in Reasoning Ability?

Puzzles, seating arrangements, machine input-output, coding, blood relations, and syllogism were reported.

Q8. How many vacancies were included in the special backlog recruitment?

The recruitment drive covered 1,538 Junior Associate vacancies.

Q9. Was there negative marking in SBI Clerk Mains 2026?

Yes. Incorrect answers attracted a penalty of one-fourth of the marks assigned to the relevant question.

Q10. Where can candidates check official SBI Clerk recruitment updates?

Candidates can visit the official State Bank of India Careers website for results, recruitment notices, and other announcements.

Conclusion

The SBI Clerk Mains Exam Analysis 2026 for 29 October provides useful information about the examination pattern, important topics, good attempts, and section-wise questions.

While one candidate-feedback assessment rated the paper Easy to Moderate and estimated 124–144 good attempts, other reviews offered different assessments. Therefore, candidates should focus on accuracy, expected marks, and official recruitment information rather than relying on any single estimate.

Future banking aspirants can use this examination review to strengthen numerical ability, improve logical reasoning, develop reading skills, and revise important current affairs.

Stay connected for SBI Clerk Mains Result 2026, official cut-off updates, question-paper discussions, and the latest banking recruitment news. Share this article with fellow aspirants and tell us which section you found most challenging.

 

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