Do You Need Coaching for Bank Exams Like SBI PO and IBPS PO if You Are Preparing for CAT?

When you are preparing for a highly competitive exam like the Common Admission Test (CAT), you might wonder if you need additional coaching for other exams such as the SBI PO (Probationary Officer in State Bank of India) and IBPS PO (Probable Officer in Indian Bank Public Service). Let's explore the pros and cons of joining coaching classes for these bank exams, particularly if you are already preparing for the CAT.

My Personal Experience with CAT and Bank Exams

First, let me share my story. I prepared for the CAT exam with the help of an online coaching platform. Despite my efforts, I did not make it to the final cut. However, during this process, I solidified my foundational knowledge, which was crucial. For the next two months, I focused solely on giving mock tests and revisiting topics I had forgotten. As a result, I cracked the RRB PO (Railway Recruitment Board, Probationary Officer) pre and mains examinations within this short preparation period. My experience underscores the importance of a strong basic understanding and practice.

Based on my experience, my advice would be to aim to crack the CAT exam. If you do not succeed, at least you will have a strong foundation in the basics and will need only to give mock tests and deeply analyze your performance for the respective bank exams. Additionally, you can revise any forgotten topics using online resources. This way, joining coaching for the bank exams is optional but can be beneficial if you find it challenging to prepare on your own.

Why Coaching Can Be Helpful for Bank Exams

From my perspective, coaching is advantageous, especially if you are not confident in your self-study abilities or if you do not have much time to delve into the basics. Through coaching, you gain insights into the level of competition and your standing among peers. Coaches can also provide valuable strategies and tips for tackling the exam effectively. However, if you are already clear about your basics and have consistent self-study habits, you can achieve success by practicing and taking online tests without additional coaching. There is no one-size-fits-all solution; it depends on your personal circumstances and learning style.

The Importance of Clear Basics for Bank Exams

Regardless of whether you opt for coaching or self-study, a strong foundation is critical for success in bank exams. The CAT, which tests your quantitative, verbal, and logical reasoning skills, can serve as an excellent preparatory tool. The subjects tested in the CAT, such as mathematics, English, and logical reasoning, are also extensively covered in bank exam preparation. Therefore, the skills and knowledge you gain from CAT preparation can significantly enhance your performance for SBI PO and IBPS PO.

Conclusion

In summary, while it is possible to prepare effectively for bank exams like SBI PO and IBPS PO without additional coaching, especially if you have a strong foundation from your CAT preparation, coaching can be beneficial. If you feel uncertain or need guidance, enrolling in a coaching program can help you improve your chances of success. However, if you are confident in your basics and can manage your preparation on your own, you can achieve great results without the need for extra tuition.