Tinkeshwari Swami shares her success story in clearing SBI PO exam in first attempt

SBI PO 2019 qualifier, Tinkeshwari Swami, has cracked the exam with no coaching and in the first attempt. Read her complete interview where she has shared some tips & tricks on how to prepare for SBI PO exam. 

There is a famous saying, “Where there is a will, there is the way.” This has been proved to be true by Tinkeshwari Swami who has qualified SBI PO 2019 exam with no coaching and in the first attempt. Her dream to join SBI was so determinant that when people of her age are fascinated with social media, she kept herself away from it to focus on studies. Besides, cracking SBI PO, she also cleared IBPS RRB Clerk, IBPS PO, SSC CHSL, SBI Clerk, FCI and LIC ADO.

In a candid interview with Shiksha, Tinkeshwari shares her preparation strategy, study plan, and many more. Go through the complete interview below:

Thank you. After the result was announced, I was feeling very happy. This was my first attempt and never thought to crack it easily. So, when the result was announced, I checked the list twice or three and even asked my brother to check the same. I have prepared for the exam all by myself without any coaching. For some queries, I used to discuss with my friends who were preparing for Civil Services exam, SSC exams, etc. I followed online resources to prepare for the exam. My family and friends supported me a lot. I would also like to attribute my success to my family and friend Vivek Singh who is working as Sub-Lieutenant in Indian Navy.

I am from Kota, Rajasthan. My mother is a housewife and my father works in a private company. I completed my schooling, BSc and MSc from Kota itself.

Initially, I was preparing for CSIR UGC NET because I wanted to make career in academies. I appeared for the exam two times but did not crack it. Then I decided to prepare for government exams. Even, I appeared for GATE and TSIR exams too. I always had one thing in mind is to grab officer level job. This is when I thought to appear for SBI PO. In banking, the selection process is completed within six months while in other competitive exams it takes time. Even, the exam pattern of banking and insurance exams are same.

I also appeared for IBPS RRB Clerk, IBPS PO, SSC CHSL, SBI Clerk, FCI, LIC AAO, LIC ADO, EPFO. I did not clear LIC AAO and EPFO exams. I joined SBI because it is a reputed organisation, working environment is good and salary is also good.

My overall marks in prelims was 86. In mains, I had secured 108.48 marks. In Interview, I secured 43 marks. I cracked the exam in 2019 and currently working in SBI, Kota.

I started preparing for SBI PO exam in March 2019 (Three to four months before the exam). I focused only on studies. I unstalled all my social media accounts to do away with all sorts of distractions. I used to check updates on social media sometimes but not always. I browsed internet only to find out study related materials. Prelims exam comprises three sections, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning Ability. In Prelims, I focused mainly on Maths and Reasoning. I started from basics, watched online videos to clear my concept. I used to start my day by revising Reasoning. Later in the day, I used to study Maths and English. I used to give mock tests also. Candidates should basically focus on practice, concept building and mock test.

Mostly, I have cleared my basics and concepts in prelims. Therefore, in mains I focused on tackling the tough questions. I gave mock tests and previous years’ question papers. GK changes your score in the exam. I gave time to GK mainly current affairs. In English, I prepared read comprehension a lot.

I searched in google mock interviews and prepared from them. I watched UPSC aspirants too.

As such I did not face any problem while preparing for the exam. One thing which I used to fear is what will happen if I am not been able to clear the exam. I used to be keep myself positive and did not allow negativity to rule me.

No, I did not take any coaching. I purchased online course material and prepared from those. Besides, I used to watch prep live videos and clear all my doubts from raising my queries in the comment section.

Ideal time to prepare for the exam is three to four months before the release of notification. Usually, six months of preparation is advisable.

To prepare for SBI PO exam, students should be focused, their concepts should be clear, accuracy and speed is necessary. Devote equal time to each section. Smart work and consistency in study is also necessary.

I used to study minimum of 3 to 4 hours and maximum of 8 hours a day. Initially, candidates should dedicate less time to study. Gradually, they should increase their time.

Candidates must be thorough with the syllabus. Make a note of everything they study. Pick one topic daily and find out what type of questions are asked in the exam. Candidates should prepare proper time table. Be consistent in your studies.

Based on the balanced performance in mains and interview, you will be selected for appointment. First, you need to appear for Group Discussion/Group Exercises. Here, candidates are allotted in a group of 11 members and given a particular topic to discuss. We were given to discuss CCTV camera in public places. You need to put your points. In the Interview, your personality and knowledge are assessed. Be genuine in the Interview and confident. Be clear with the points you have mentioned in the bio-data. Do not confuse the interviewer.

Yes, I have taken atleast 50 mock tests. These tests are very important as it helps in time management and building accuracy. Attempting the tests, you will be able to analyse your preparation for the exam.

Candidates must prepare well and focus on their studies. Besides, studies, candidates should eat healthy and sleep well. They should believe in their preparation and do the best.