Around 25-40 full Prelims mocks and 10-15 Mains mocks is a common, workable range, spread over the last 6-8 weeks before each exam. Fewer mocks with full analysis beat many mocks without it.
There is no official number, but a range of 25-40 Prelims mocks gives enough practice to settle your timing and attempt order, as long as each one is analysed. Above that, the gains depend on whether you are fixing what each mock shows.
A suggested mock schedule
| Period | Prelims mocks | Mains mocks |
|---|---|---|
| 8-6 weeks before Prelims | 2 a week | - |
| 5-3 weeks before | 3-4 a week | 1 every two weeks |
| Last 2 weeks | 1 a day | - |
| Between Prelims and Mains | 1-2 a week (to keep speed) | 2 a week |
Signs you are taking too many
- You skip analysis because the next mock is due
- Your score is flat for three weeks
- The same topics keep costing marks
Signs you are taking too few
- You still change your attempt order in every mock
- You run out of time in the same section each time
- The exam is under a month away and you have taken fewer than ten
Mains mocks need more care
A Mains mock is 190 questions over 2 hours 40 minutes. Taking two a week with proper analysis already uses most of a weekend. Combine them with sectional GA tests, which are short and give quick feedback on your notes.
What makes a mock count
- Full timing, in one sitting, without pauses
- Analysis on the same day
- Every wrong question redone within 48 hours
- Scores and accuracy recorded in one table
A mock that misses these steps is closer to practice than to a mock.
If you are short of time
With under a month left, aim for 12-15 Prelims mocks and spend the rest of the time on your two weakest topics. A smaller number of well-analysed mocks still settles your timing.
- SBI: Recruitment of Junior Associates 2026, detailed advertisement (CRPD/CR/2026-27/17)
- SBI: Junior Associates 2026 Prelims information handout (Acquaint Yourself)
Rules can change with each notification. Confirm on sbi.bank.in/web/careers.
More mocks & practice questions
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