Banking Awareness for IBPS PO: A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Master the Basics
🏦 Introduction
Banking Awareness is one of the most crucial sections for candidates preparing for IBPS PO and other bank exams. While it may not be asked as a standalone section in prelims, it plays a vital role in mains and interviews, especially in the General Awareness section. For beginners, mastering banking awareness builds a strong foundation and improves confidence in the exam.
📌 Why Banking Awareness Is Important for IBPS PO Aspirants
- It carries 20–25 marks in the General Awareness section of the IBPS PO Mains.
- It helps in answering finance-related questions during the interview.
- It boosts your overall understanding of the Indian economy and banking system.
- It adds depth to your preparation and gives you an edge over other candidates.
🧠 Core Topics to Cover in Banking Awareness
🔹 Basic Banking Terms
- Savings & Current Account
- Fixed Deposit & Recurring Deposit
- Cheques, Demand Drafts, RTGS, NEFT, IMPS
- CASA, NPA, CRR, SLR
🔹 Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
- Roles & Functions
- Monetary Policy (Repo Rate, Reverse Repo, etc.)
- RBI Governor and Structure
- Instruments of Monetary Control
🔹 Financial Institutions & Reforms
- NABARD, SIDBI, SEBI, IRDAI
- Basel Norms
- Banking Sector Reforms in India
🔹 Types of Banks
- Public, Private, Cooperative, Regional Rural Banks
- Payments Banks & Small Finance Banks
🔹 Current Affairs (Banking & Finance)
- Recent RBI notifications
- Merger of banks
- Budget highlights
- Government schemes related to banking
📚 Best Study Resources for Banking Awareness
| Resource Type | Source Name |
|---|---|
| Monthly Magazines | Banking Services Chronicle (BSC), Pratiyogita Darpan |
| YouTube Channels | Banking Learners, AffairsCloud, Study IQ |
| Mobile Apps | Adda247, Gradeup, Testbook |
| Websites | RBI.org.in, PIB.gov.in, Business Standard, Economic Times |
📝 Tips to Prepare Banking Awareness Effectively
- Start with basics – Understand concepts like CRR, SLR, Repo first.
- Read daily current affairs – Focus on finance and banking news.
- Make short notes – Keep a separate notebook for important facts.
- Revise weekly – Schedule revision every Sunday.
- Solve quizzes – Practice MCQs regularly from apps and websites.
❓ Sample Questions for Practice
- What is the current CRR set by RBI?
- Which bank was recently merged with PNB?
- What is the full form of IMPS?
- Who is the current Governor of RBI?
✅ Conclusion
Banking Awareness is not just a subject — it’s the language of every banking exam. With consistent practice, smart resources, and a well-structured approach, even beginners can master it in a few months. Focus on concept clarity, current updates, and regular revisions, and you’ll surely score well in IBPS PO Mains and shine in the interview too.