The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) plays a pivotal role in the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises in India. The SIDBI Grade A exam is the entry point for candidates aspiring to join this esteemed institution as Assistant Managers. This comprehensive guide will dissect the SIDBI Grade A exam pattern, offering a detailed roadmap for aspirants.
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SIDBI Grade A Exam Pattern: Complete Details
The Selection Stages
The SIDBI Grade A recruitment process is divided into two main stages:
- Stage 1: Online Objective Test & Descriptive Test
- Stage 2: Personal Interview
The initial phase tests a candidate’s knowledge and aptitude, while the final stage assesses their personality and suitability for the role.
SIDBI Grade A Online Objective Test
The online objective test is the first component of Stage 1. Here’s what candidates need to know:
- Number of Questions: The test comprises 160 questions.
- Total Marks: Each question carries one mark, making the test a total of 160 marks.
- Duration: Candidates have 2 hours (120 minutes) to complete this section.
- Negative Marking: A penalty of 0.25 marks is imposed for every incorrect answer.
The objective test is divided into four key sections:
- Reasoning Aptitude: This section tests logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
- English Language: It evaluates the candidate’s command of the English language.
- Quantitative Aptitude: This segment assesses numerical ability and data interpretation skills.
- General Awareness: Focusing on current events, especially in the banking and financial sector, this section gauges a candidate’s general knowledge.
Each of these sections is designed to challenge the examinees and assess their abilities in a comprehensive manner.
SIDBI Grade A Descriptive Test
Following the objective test, candidates face the descriptive test, which examines their writing and expressive skills.
- Number of Questions: There are 3 questions in this test.
- Total Marks: The descriptive test is scored out of 50 marks.
- Duration: 60 minutes are given to complete all three questions.
- Types of Questions: This part typically includes essay writing, business letter writing, and précis writing.
The descriptive test is conducted immediately after the objective test, evaluating a candidate’s ability to articulate thoughts coherently and effectively.
Exam Language Options
The SIDBI Grade A exam is bilingual. Except for the English Language section and the Descriptive Test, all other sections are available in both English and Hindi, accommodating the linguistic diversity of the candidates.
Exam Pattern Table
To provide a clearer picture, here is a tabulated overview of the SIDBI Grade A exam pattern:
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Duration | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Aptitude | 40 | 1 | 40 | 30 minutes | 0.25 |
| English Language | 30 | 1 | 30 | 20 minutes | 0.25 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 40 | 1 | 40 | 30 minutes | 0.25 |
| General Awareness | 50 | 1 | 50 | 20 minutes | 0.25 |
| Descriptive Test | 3 | 16.67 | 50 | 60 minutes | Not Applicable |
Note: The table above is representative based on the latest SIDBI Grade A exam pattern information available.
Introduction to the Descriptive Test
After navigating the Online Objective Test, SIDBI Grade A aspirants encounter the Descriptive Test, a critical component designed to evaluate their written communication skills, a vital attribute for any Assistant Manager.
Insights into the Descriptive Test
The Descriptive Test consists of three questions, demanding succinct yet comprehensive responses within a time frame of 60 minutes. The types of questions typically include:
- Essay Writing: Topics could range from economic scenarios to the impact of technology on banking.
- Business Letter Writing: This may involve drafting letters on various scenarios that an Assistant Manager might face.
- Précis Writing: Summarizing lengthy passages into concise presentations without losing the essence.
This section is not just about what you write but how you write it. Clarity, coherence, and grammar are just as critical as the content itself.
Exam Pattern for Descriptive Test
Here’s a detailed look at the pattern for the Descriptive Test:
| Type of Question | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essay Writing | 1 | Approx. 20 | 20 | 60 minutes |
| Letter Writing | 1 | Approx. 15 | 15 | – |
| Précis Writing | 1 | Approx. 15 | 15 | – |
The allocation of time within the 60 minutes is at the candidate’s discretion.
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Preparation Strategies
Preparing for the SIDBI Grade A exam requires a strategic approach, considering the pattern and the complexity of the test. Here are some tailored strategies:
- Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Start with a clear understanding of the syllabus for each section of the objective test. Focus on the weightage given to each topic and prioritize accordingly.
- Stay Updated on Current Affairs: For the General Awareness section, regularly read newspapers, financial journals, and current affairs magazines. Pay special attention to news related to the banking and financial sector.
- Practice Quantitative and Reasoning Aptitude: Solve as many problems as possible from various sources to gain speed and accuracy. Use online resources, previous years’ papers, and sample tests for practice.
- Refine English Language Skills: Reading extensively and practicing comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary exercises will be beneficial. For the descriptive test, practice writing essays and letters to improve expression and coherence.
- Mock Tests and Time Management: Regularly take timed mock tests to build stamina and learn to manage time effectively. This will also help in identifying areas of strength and weakness.
- Revision Plan: Make a revision plan that allows you to go over all topics multiple times. Include short notes and mind maps for last-minute revisions.
Additional Tips for the Descriptive Test
- Read and Understand: Carefully read the questions to understand what is being asked before starting to write.
- Plan Your Answer: Organize your thoughts and plan the structure of your essay or letter before you begin writing.
- Review and Edit: Use the last few minutes to review and make necessary corrections in your answers.
Final Words
The SIDBI Grade A exam pattern for the Descriptive Test emphasizes the importance of clear and effective written communication. Coupled with a robust preparation strategy for the objective test, aspirants can significantly enhance their chances of success. Remember, consistent practice, time management, and a clear understanding of the required format for essays, letters, and précis are the cornerstones of cracking the Descriptive Test. Equip yourself with these strategies, and you are well on your way to securing a position with SIDBI.