Use of Calculators or Electronic Devices in SBI PO Mains Exam


The SBI PO Mains Exam is a highly competitive examination conducted by the State Bank of India (SBI) to recruit Probationary Officers (PO). As a prestigious banking examination, it has specific rules and regulations regarding the use of calculators or electronic devices during the exam.


Candidates appearing for the SBI PO Mains Exam must adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Prohibition of Calculators: The use of calculators or any electronic devices is strictly prohibited during the exam.

2. Pen and Paper: Candidates must rely on traditional pen and paper methods for calculations.


The SBI PO Mains Exam aims to assess a candidate's aptitude, problem-solving skills, and ability to work under pressure. By prohibiting calculators and electronic devices, the exam ensures that candidates are tested on their mental math abilities and logical reasoning skills. The prohibition helps maintain a level playing field for all candidates.


The ability to perform calculations mentally is crucial for banking professionals, including probationary officers. They often need to make quick decisions and perform calculations on the spot without relying on external devices. By assessing candidates' mental math skills, the SBI PO Mains Exam ensures that selected candidates possess the necessary mathematical aptitude for the role.


To excel in the SBI PO Mains Exam without the use of calculators or electronic devices, candidates can follow these preparation tips:

1. Practice Mental Math: Regularly practice mental math calculations to improve speed and accuracy.

2. Learn Shortcut Techniques: Familiarize yourself with shortcut techniques for calculations, such as multiplication tricks, quickly calculating percentages, and approximation methods.

3. Improve Problem-Solving Skills: Solve a variety of reasoning and quantitative aptitude questions to enhance problem-solving abilities.

4. Mock Tests: Take online mock tests to simulate the exam environment and practice solving questions without the use of calculators.


In conclusion, the use of calculators or any electronic devices is not permitted in the SBI PO Mains Exam. Candidates must rely on their mental math skills and problem-solving abilities to excel in the examination. By adhering to the guidelines and following the preparation tips mentioned above, candidates can increase their chances of success in the SBI PO Mains Exam.