Skip to content

How should I use SBI Clerk previous year papers?

Mocks & practiceUpdated 2026-10-23
Short answer

Use them as timed mocks to learn the real level and mix of questions, not as a question bank to memorise. Two or three papers early on and several in the last month is a good balance.

Previous papers show you what the examiner actually asks. Mock series are only someone's estimate. Most papers in circulation for bank exams are memory-based, compiled from candidates' recollections, so treat them as close but not exact copies.

When to use them

StageHow manyPurpose
Start of preparation1-2See the level and question types
Middle (after core topics)2-3Check if your practice matches the real level
Last month3-5Full timed papers for confidence and pacing

How to use one paper

  1. Take it with full timing, like a mock.
  2. Analyse it the same way: right, wrong, skipped-but-doable, too hard.
  3. List the topics and question types that appeared. Compare them with your study plan.
  4. Note new formats (for example a new kind of English question) and practise them.

What not to do

  • Do not memorise answers. Numbers and names change; methods do not.
  • Do not assume the same distribution of topics next year. Patterns shift.
  • Do not use GA from old papers as current affairs; old facts may be outdated.

Official sample questions

SBI's information handout for each exam includes sample questions for every test. They are basic, but they show the official format of questions and options (five options per question in Prelims).

Track topic counts across papers

For each paper you solve, write how many questions came from each topic (RC, puzzles, DI, series and so on) in one table. After four or five papers, you will see which topics are steady and which come and go. Use that to adjust how much time you give each topic.

Previous papers are also a good test of whether your mock series is too easy or too hard. If you score much better on old papers, your mocks are pitched above the real level.

More mocks & practice questions

Free SBI Clerk practice with solutionsStart free →