How to Score 25+ Out of 30 in IBPS Clerk Prelims English Section

The IBPS Clerk Prelims Exam 2025 is a very important step for those who want to start their banking career. The English Language section carries 30 marks and is often seen as a scoring section if prepared properly. In this article, we will learn how to score 25+ out of 30 in the English section with smart strategies and preparation tips.

IBPS Clerk Exam Dates 2025-2026

As per the Revised Tentative Calendar released by IBPS, the Preliminary Examination for IBPS Clerk (Customer Service Associates – CSA) is scheduled to be held on 4th, 5th, and 11th October 2025. Candidates who qualify the prelims will appear for the Main Examination, which is tentatively scheduled for 29th November 2025.

It’s important to note that there will be a single online registration for both stages, and candidates must regularly check the official IBPS website www.ibps.in for updates and detailed notifications.

Also Read: IBPS Revised Exam Calendar 2025-26 Out, List of Upcoming Banking Exams

Understand the English Syllabus First

Before starting preparation, know what topics are asked in the English section:

• Reading Comprehension
• Spotting Errors
• Cloze Test
• Fill in the Blanks
• Para Jumbles (Topic rearrangement of passage)
• Synonyms & Antonyms
• Word Usage
• Sentence Improvement
• Spelling Correction
• Idioms and Phrases
• Active & Passive Voice
• Direct & Indirect Speech

You don’t need to master all at once. Focus on common and high-scoring topics first.

Also Read: How Many Hours Should You Study Daily for SSC CGL?

Focus on Reading Comprehension (RC)

Reading Comprehension is an important part of the English section. Usually, 5 to 8 questions are based on one passage. Here are tips to master RC:

• Read English newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express.
• Practice daily passages with time limit.
• Focus on main idea, tone, and inference.
• Try to understand the context rather than memorizing words.

Master Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms)

A strong vocabulary helps in many areas like RC, Cloze Test, and Fill in the Blanks. Here’s how to improve:

• Learn 5-10 new words daily with meaning, synonyms, antonyms, and usage.
• Make a personal vocabulary notebook.
• Use apps like WordUp, Vocabulary.com for daily practice.
• Focus on frequently asked idioms and phrases.

Learn Grammar Basics Clearly for IBPS Clerk Prelims

Grammar is the foundation of the English section. Topics like Spotting Errors, Sentence Improvement, Voice, and Speech need clear grammar concepts.

• Focus on tenses, subject-verb agreement, prepositions, articles, and conjunctions.
• Watch short grammar videos on YouTube for better understanding.
• Solve error spotting and sentence correction exercises regularly.
• Use books like Wren & Martin or Objective English by SP Bakshi.

Practice Cloze Test and Fill in the Blanks

These are high-scoring and easy if you understand context well:

• Read the entire paragraph once to understand the theme.
• Check grammar and vocabulary while selecting the word.
• Practice at least 2-3 Cloze Tests daily.

Practice Para Jumbles and Sentence Rearrangement

These questions need understanding of sentence flow and connectors:

• Look for opening and closing sentences.
• Identify pronouns, connectors, and keywords.
• Practice sets daily and time yourself.

Improve Your Speed and Accuracy

You will get only 20 minutes for 30 questions. So, managing time is very important.

• Practice mock tests regularly.
• Set a timer while solving each section.
• Skip time-consuming questions and return later.

Avoid Negative Marking in IBPS Clerk Prelims

There is 0.25 mark deduction for every wrong answer.

• Do not guess randomly.
• Attempt questions you are confident about.
• Review your answers if time permits.

Daily Practice Plan for IBPS Clerk Prelims

Final Tips to Score 25+ in IBPS Clerk Prelims English Section

• Revise grammar rules weekly.
• Make short notes for revision.
• Stay consistent – 1 hour daily is enough if done sincerely.
• Attempt full-length mock tests every 2-3 days.
• Stay calm and confident during the exam.

Rup Biswas

Rup Biswas is a content writer at IndiaExamAlert who shares updates on government jobs, admit cards, exam results, and answer keys. He writes in simple words so that every student and job seeker can easily understand the latest information.

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