IBPS Clerk vs IBPS PO, Which One is Easier to Crack in the First Attempt

Aspiring Bankers are often confused when choosing between the IBPS Clerk & IBPS PO exams. Both exams provide a promising career in the banking sector, but they come with different challenges and opportunities. Understanding the differences between these exams can help candidates make an informed decision and strategize their preparation effectively. In this article, we will compare the IBPS Clerk and IBPS PO exams to determine which one might be easier to crack on the first attempt.

IBPS Clerk & IBPS PO Exams

IBPS Clerk Exam: The IBPS Clerk exam is conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) to recruit clerical staff for various Participating Banks in India. The exam consists of two phases: the Preliminary Exam and the Main Exam. There is no interview stage for this exam.

IBPS PO Exam: The IBPS PO exam is also conducted by the IBPS, but it is for the recruitment of Probationary Officers (PO). This exam has three phases: the Preliminary Exam, the Main Exam, and the Interview stage. The PO exam is generally considered more challenging due to the additional interview phase and the higher level of difficulty in the written exams.

Differences b/w IBPS Clerk & IBPS PO Exam

1. Based on Exam Pattern & Syllabus
   • IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern & Syllabus
     • Preliminary Exam: English Language, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning Ability.
     • Main Exam: General/Financial Awareness, General English, Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude, and Quantitative Aptitude.
   • IBPS PO Syllabus & Exam Pattern
     • Preliminary Exam: English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability.
     • Main Exam: Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, English Language, Data Analysis & Interpretation, and Descriptive Test (Essay and Letter Writing).
2. Difficulty Level
   • IBPS Clerk: Generally considered to be of easy to moderate difficulty, with questions focused more on speed and accuracy.
   • IBPS PO: Known for its higher difficulty level, with a greater emphasis on analytical and problem-solving skills.
3. Based on Competition
   • IBPS Clerk: Attracts a large number of candidates, and the competition level is too high
   • IBPS PO: Faces high competition, as it is a sought-after position with more responsibilities and better career growth prospects.
4. Job Profile & Responsibilities
   • IBPS Clerk: Clerical work includes handling customer inquiries, managing cash counters, data entry, and other routine tasks.
   • IBPS PO: Probationary Officers are trained for managerial roles, including supervising clerical work, managing customer relations, and handling loans and finances.
5. Career Growth
   • IBPS Clerk: Career progression can be slower as compared to PO, starting from the clerical cadre and moving up through internal exams and promotions.
   • IBPS PO: Offers faster career growth with opportunities to rise to higher managerial positions within a shorter span of time.

Which One is Easier to Crack on the First Attempt?

IBPS Clerk

• Favour: Easier syllabus, no interview stage, and focus more on speed and accuracy. The exam pattern is straightforward, and the level of questions is relatively moderate.
• Challenge: High number of applicants, leading to tough competition for limited seats.

IBPS PO

• Favour: Offers a more rewarding career with faster growth and higher salaries. Successful candidates often find the challenges worth the effort due to the long-term benefits.
• Challenge: Higher difficulty level, includes an interview stage and requires a deep understanding of various subjects.

Verdict

Both the IBPS Clerk and IBPS PO exams have their own sets of challenges. The IBPS Clerk exam is relatively easier to crack on the first attempt due to its lower difficulty level and straightforward exam pattern. However, the IBPS PO exam, though more challenging, offers better career prospects and faster growth.

Ultimately, the choice depends on the aspirant’s career goals, preparation level, and personal strengths. With the right strategy and dedication, cracking either of these exams on the first attempt is achievable.

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