How To Prepare For Bank Exams While Studying Or Working

By Author: Tanu Sharma
Total Articles: 3
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Preparing for bank exams while managing college studies or a full-time job is not easy—but it is absolutely possible. I’ve seen many aspirants crack SBI, IBPS, and RRB exams while attending classes or working 9-to-6 jobs. The key is not studying for long hours, but studying smartly and consistently.
In this blog, I’ll share practical and realistic tips that actually work for students and working professionals.
1. Accept Your Situation and Plan Accordingly
The first step is to accept that you have limited time. Once you accept this, you stop comparing yourself with full-time aspirants and start focusing on what you can do daily.
You don’t need 6–8 hours daily

Even 2–3 focused hours are enough if used properly

Consistency matters more than duration

2. Create a Flexible Study Schedule
A rigid timetable never works for students or working professionals. Instead, create a flexible routine.
For students:
1–2 hours after classes

30 minutes revision before sleep

For working professionals:
1 hour in the ...
... morning (fresh mind)

1–1.5 hours at night

Use weekends for revision and mock tests

The goal is to study daily, even if for a short time.

3. Focus on Exam-Oriented Preparation
When time is limited, avoid unnecessary things. Always prepare according to the latest bank exam pattern and syllabus
.
Identify high-weightage topics

Focus more on Accuracy-based sections

Avoid reading too many sources

Use exam-focused practice platforms like SmartKeeda to stay aligned with real exam-level questions.

4. Make Mock Tests Your Best Friend
Mock tests are extremely important when you can’t study all day.
They save time

They show your real performance

They help in time management

Start with sectional tests, then move to full-length mocks. Analyze each mock properly—this is where real improvement happens.
5. Smart Revision Strategy
Revision is more important than learning new topics every day.
Maintain short notes

Revise formulas and concepts weekly

Use error logs to track mistakes

Even 20–30 minutes of daily revision can boost confidence before exams.

6. Use Small Time Slots Wisely
If you are studying or working, small breaks are very valuable.
Revise vocab during travel

Practice quizzes during lunch breaks

Read current affairs before sleeping

These small efforts add up over time.
7. Stay Motivated but Practical
There will be days when you feel tired or demotivated—and that’s normal.
Don’t aim for perfection

Focus on daily progress

Avoid burnout

Remember, bank exams test patience and discipline, not just intelligence.
8. Take Care of Health and Sleep
No preparation works without good health.
Sleep at least 6–7 hours

Eat light and healthy

Take short breaks

A fresh mind learns faster than a tired one.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for bank exams while studying or working is challenging, but thousands of aspirants do it every year—and so can you. With a smart plan, regular practice, and the right resources like SmartKeeda, you can balance your responsibilities and still move closer to your dream job.