SBI PO 2025 Descriptive English: Complete Preparation Strategy for Essay and Letter
The SBI PO Descriptive English Paper is often the make-or-break section for many aspirants. While the objective sections test your reasoning, aptitude, and general awareness, the descriptive section tests your written communication skills—something that directly reflects your suitability for a Probationary Officer role.
In the 2025 exam cycle, SBI continues to emphasize a candidate’s ability to articulate thoughts concisely and clearly, making it imperative to have a rock-solid preparation strategy. This post walks you through every essential component—exam pattern, topic selection, structure, content planning, and high-scoring techniques.
1. Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme
Understanding the structure of the Descriptive English section is the first step in your preparation journey.
| Section | Marks | Time Allotted | Word Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essay Writing | 30 | 20 minutes | Around 250 words |
| Letter Writing | 20 | 10 minutes | Around 150 words |
| Total | 50 | 30 minutes | — |
You are required to type your answers on a computer. This means typing speed and clarity of thought are just as important as your writing skills.
2. Importance of Descriptive English in SBI PO
While this section carries 50 marks, its importance is often underestimated. A well-written essay or letter not only boosts your overall score but also gives an edge over candidates who are equally competent in objective papers. It reflects your communication skill, logical flow, and clarity of thought—traits vital for a banking officer role.
3. Essay Writing: How to Prepare Smartly
A. Understand the Essay Types
Essays in SBI PO are usually categorized as:
- Current Affairs-based (e.g., Climate Change, Digital Payments)
- Opinion-based (e.g., Work From Home vs Office Culture)
- Abstract (e.g., “Success is a Journey, Not a Destination”)
- Banking/Finance Topics (e.g., Financial Inclusion through Jan Dhan Yojana)
B. Master the Ideal Structure
Follow a structured format:
- Introduction: Define the topic and set the tone.
- Body: Include 2–3 paragraphs with arguments, examples, and statistics.
- Conclusion: Summarize and provide your opinion or suggestion.
C. Language and Tone
- Use formal, professional language.
- Avoid slang, contractions, and emotional outbursts.
- Be concise and avoid repetition.
D. Practice Strategy
- Write 2 essays per week on diverse topics.
- Get them evaluated or compare with model essays.
- Read editorials from The Hindu, Indian Express, and economic articles from Business Standard.
4. Letter Writing: Score Easy Marks
Letter writing is often more scoring than essay writing—if done right.
A. Know the Types of Letters
- Formal Letters – Addressed to a higher authority, newspaper editor, or government office.
- Example: Letter to the editor about rising cybercrimes.
- Informal Letters – Addressed to friends or relatives.
- Less common in SBI PO
B. Structure of a Formal Letter
- Sender’s Address
- Date
- Receiver’s Address
- Subject
- Salutation (Sir/Madam)
- Body: Introduction, core content, and conclusion
- Complimentary Close: Yours faithfully/sincerely
- Signature
C. Key Tips
- Don’t deviate from the subject.
- Maintain professional tone throughout.
- Avoid grammatical errors and spelling mistakes.
5. Typing Practice and Time Management
The paper is conducted in online mode, so typing skills play a crucial role.
Typing Speed Target:
- 30–35 WPM (Words Per Minute) is a good benchmark.
- Use tools like Keybr, 10FastFingers, or Typing.com for daily practice.
Time Allocation Strategy:
- Essay: Max 20 minutes (2 min for structure planning, 15 min writing, 3 min proofreading)
- Letter: Max 10 minutes (1 min for layout planning, 7 min writing, 2 min proofreading)
6. Bank Whizz’s Most Effective Writing Formula
At Bank Whizz, we recommend the PREP Formula for both essay and letter writing:
- P: Point – Introduce your argument or the topic.
- R: Reason – Explain the logic behind it.
- E: Example – Give relevant examples or data.
- P: Point – Re-emphasize or conclude the idea.
This format ensures your answer is structured, logical, and compelling.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Grammar and Spelling Errors: Use tools like Grammarly in practice mode.
- Overuse of Complex Words: Clarity over complexity.
- Not Following the Word Limit: Don’t write 500 words in a 250-word essay.
- No Conclusion: Always provide a closure.
- Lack of Real Examples: Include examples or current events to strengthen points.
8. Daily Practice Routine (15–30 mins)
| Day | Task |
|---|---|
| Monday | Essay on current affairs |
| Tuesday | Formal letter practice |
| Wednesday | Abstract essay writing |
| Thursday | Letter to the editor |
| Friday | Editorial reading + summary writing |
| Saturday | Mock test + typing practice |
| Sunday | Review your weekly performance |
9. How Bank Whizz Can Help You
We provide:
- 30 Most Probable Essay Topics for SBI PO 2025
- Model Essays and Letters with detailed explanations
- Writing Mocks with Expert Evaluation
- Topic-wise Writing Strategy Videos
- PDF Booklets and Typing Practice Sheets
With our structured course, you not only prepare but master the Descriptive Paper!
10. Final Thoughts
The SBI PO Descriptive English section is not about flowery language—it’s about structured thinking, clarity, and concise communication. With just 30 minutes to prove your writing skills, every word counts. Practicing consistently, staying updated with current affairs, and following a proven format can help you easily ace this section.
Let this section become your strength—not your worry. Write smart, write right.