Introduction
The Descriptive English Paper in the SBI PO 2025 Mains Exam is a key differentiator that can help you stand out in the final merit list. The essay component alone carries 30 marks and is evaluated based on structure, content, clarity, and language.
Many candidates with excellent knowledge lose marks due to avoidable mistakes in essay writing—be it grammatical errors, poor structure, irrelevant content, or mismanagement of time.
This guide will walk you through the best practices to avoid common essay-writing mistakes, ensuring you submit a well-organized, coherent, and high-quality essay within the time limit.
Why Essay Writing Needs Strategic Preparation
Writing an essay in a competitive exam is different from academic or creative writing. In SBI PO, you must:
- Write within 20 minutes
- Adhere to the 200–250 word limit
- Choose from 3–5 given topics
- Maintain a formal, balanced tone
- Display awareness of current affairs
It’s not about flashy language—it’s about clarity, logic, and relevance.
10 Best Practices to Avoid Mistakes in SBI PO Essay Writing
1. Understand the Topic Thoroughly
Mistake to Avoid: Misinterpreting the topic or writing off-topic.
Best Practice:
- Read the topic carefully—sometimes it’s a question, other times a statement.
- Identify the theme: Is it opinion-based, analytical, or descriptive?
- Quickly brainstorm what dimensions (social, economic, technological, etc.) you can cover.
Tip: If you’re unsure about the topic’s meaning, it’s better to choose another one where your understanding is clear.
2. Stick to the Ideal Essay Structure
Mistake to Avoid: Writing in a single long paragraph or without a conclusion.
Best Practice: Use the 3-Part Format
- Introduction (40–50 words): Define the topic, give background, and outline what you’ll discuss.
- Body (120–150 words): Divide into 2–3 paragraphs. Present logical arguments with examples, stats, or current events.
- Conclusion (30–50 words): Summarize your view, offer a solution or forward-looking thought.
Tip: Never skip the conclusion. It’s the final impression you leave.
3. Manage Time Efficiently
Mistake to Avoid: Spending too much time planning or editing and running out of time.
Best Practice: Follow This Time Plan
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Reading and selecting topic | 1 minute |
| Brainstorming and outlining | 2 minutes |
| Writing the essay | 13–14 minutes |
| Revising and editing | 2–3 minutes |
Tip: Practice essay writing with a timer at home using mock tests to build speed and discipline.
4. Avoid Complex Vocabulary and Sentences
Mistake to Avoid: Using overly complicated words or long-winded sentences.
Best Practice:
- Use simple, formal language that communicates your point effectively.
- Short sentences with one idea per line are clearer and easier to read.
- Avoid jargon, abbreviations, or informal phrases like “gonna,” “awesome,” or “etc.”
Tip: Instead of trying to impress with vocabulary, focus on accuracy and clarity.
5. Stay Within the Word Limit
Mistake to Avoid: Writing too little (under 180 words) or too much (over 260 words).
Best Practice:
Stick to the ideal 200–250 word range.
- Too short = underdeveloped ideas
- Too long = lack of focus and rushed writing
Tip: Type a few practice essays on MS Word or online tools to get a feel for the word count visually.
6. Be Factually Correct and Relevant
Mistake to Avoid: Including wrong facts, stats, or going off-topic.
Best Practice:
- Use real data or schemes only if you’re confident about their accuracy.
- If unsure, present general logic and practical examples.
- Stay aligned with the topic in every paragraph.
Tip: Read The Hindu editorials, PIB updates, and Bank Whizz posts regularly for facts you can trust.
7. Avoid Repetition and Redundancy
Mistake to Avoid: Repeating the same point in different words.
Best Practice:
- Plan 3–4 distinct arguments or dimensions before writing.
- Use examples and transitions to move the discussion forward.
Tip: After your first draft, re-read and delete lines that say the same thing twice.
8. Use Connectors and Transitions
Mistake to Avoid: Jumping between points without flow.
Best Practice:
Use transition words for coherence:
- To begin with
- Moreover
- However
- On the contrary
- In conclusion
Tip: This not only improves readability but also helps the evaluator follow your argument easily.
9. Maintain a Neutral and Professional Tone
Mistake to Avoid: Using emotional, biased, or casual language.
Best Practice:
- Even if asked for your opinion, use balanced language.
- Don’t insult, mock, or use overly passionate phrases.
- Avoid humor, sarcasm, or aggressive tones.
Tip: Think like a future bank officer—professional, composed, and objective.
10. Proofread Before Submission
Mistake to Avoid: Submitting without checking grammar, spelling, and sentence flow.
Best Practice:
Reserve 2–3 minutes at the end to:
- Correct typos and punctuation
- Ensure subject-verb agreement
- Replace repetitive words
- Remove awkward or incomplete sentences
Tip: Practice editing your own essays during mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
Sample Before-and-After Comparison
Weak Opening:
Technology is something that is everywhere and it is changing the way we do banking every day.
Improved Version:
Technology has transformed modern banking by enhancing efficiency, accessibility, and customer service across all platforms.
Common Essay Topics to Practice Mistake-Free Writing
- Impact of AI in Indian Banking
- Digital India and Financial Inclusion
- Cybersecurity Challenges in Online Transactions
- Role of Women in Economic Growth
- Pros and Cons of Online Education
- India’s Path to Becoming a $5 Trillion Economy
- Startup Culture and Youth Empowerment
- Remote Work and Future Job Trends
- Cryptocurrency: Boon or Bane?
- The Importance of Financial Literacy
Tools and Resources for Practice
- Bank Whizz Descriptive Mocks – Simulated exams with expert feedback
- Grammarly (Free) – Helps spot grammar and tone issues
- The Hindu & Indian Express Editorials – Ideal for content ideas and sentence structure
- Google Docs Voice Typing – Practice faster typing and avoid spelling mistakes
Final Checklist Before Submitting Your Essay
- Did I understand and address the topic properly?
- Is the structure clear with a solid intro, body, and conclusion?
- Did I stay within 200–250 words?
- Is the tone formal and neutral?
- Are there any grammatical errors or typos?
- Did I use connectors to ensure smooth flow?
Conclusion
Scoring high in the SBI PO 2025 Essay Section isn’t about writing like a novelist—it’s about being clear, logical, professional, and relevant. Avoiding common mistakes can significantly improve your chances of scoring 25+ out of 30.
With regular practice, real-time feedback, and conscious effort to refine your technique, you can master this section and gain a critical edge in the SBI PO 2025 selection process.
To speed up your preparation and get expert feedback on your writing, explore the SBI PO Descriptive English Course at Bank Whizz—your trusted partner for essay perfection.