Introduction
The SBI PO 2025 Descriptive Paper is an essential part of the selection process and often a deciding factor for candidates on the edge of the merit list. Of the 50 marks, the essay carries 30 marks and must be written in 20 minutes within a word limit of 200–250 words.
To ace this section, you don’t just need good English—you need a clear strategy. This post gives you a step-by-step essay writing strategy for SBI PO 2025 that focuses on planning, structuring, writing, and revising—ensuring you make the most of the short time and score maximum marks.
Why You Need a Strategy
In a high-stakes exam like SBI PO, candidates often:
- Panic due to time pressure
- Fail to organize their ideas
- Repeat points
- Forget key arguments or counterarguments
- Submit poorly structured essays
A step-by-step strategy eliminates confusion, saves time, and boosts your confidence on the exam day.
Step 1: Read All the Topics Carefully (1 Minute)
The essay section usually gives you 3 to 5 topics to choose from. Don’t rush.
What to do:
- Quickly scan all options.
- Choose a topic you can write on logically with relevant examples.
- Avoid topics you don’t fully understand—even if they sound fancy.
Tip: Go for the topic you can cover from multiple dimensions—social, economic, ethical, environmental, etc.
Step 2: Understand the Type of Essay (1 Minute)
SBI PO essays are usually of 3 types:
- Descriptive/Expository – Explain a concept or event (e.g., Digital Banking in India)
- Analytical – Analyze pros and cons (e.g., Privatization of Banks: Boon or Bane?)
- Opinion-based – Give your views (e.g., Is Social Media Doing More Harm Than Good?)
What to do:
- Identify the type and adjust your tone and structure accordingly.
- Neutral tone for analysis, persuasive tone for opinion, informative tone for expository essays.
Step 3: Create a Quick Rough Outline (2 Minutes)
This is the most critical step.
What to do:
- Take 5–6 bullet points to frame your thoughts.
- Divide them under three heads: Introduction, Body, and Conclusion.
- Think of at least:
- One strong opening idea
- Two solid arguments with examples or data
- One counter-point or limitation (optional)
- A solution or futuristic conclusion
Tip: You don’t need to write full sentences—just key points.
Step 4: Start Writing the Essay (13–14 Minutes)
Now comes the actual writing. Stick to your outline and make sure the essay has a logical flow.
Format to Follow:
1. Introduction (40–50 words)
- Introduce the topic
- Briefly mention its relevance
- Give a roadmap for your essay
2. Body (120–150 words)
- Split into 2–3 paragraphs
- Each paragraph should:
- Present one argument
- Include a fact, example, or explanation
- Use connectors like “Moreover”, “However”, “For instance”, “On the other hand”
3. Conclusion (30–50 words)
- Summarize your arguments
- Offer a solution or vision
- Leave a lasting thought
Step 5: Revise and Refine (2–3 Minutes)
Use the last few minutes to:
- Fix grammar and punctuation errors
- Remove any repetition
- Ensure your conclusion matches the introduction
- Confirm the word count is within 200–250 words
Tip: Even a single spelling error or poorly formed sentence can lower your score. So revision is crucial.
Sample Essay Strategy in Action
Topic: “Impact of Online Education on Traditional Learning”
Outline:
- Introduction: Rise of online education post-pandemic
- Argument 1: Flexibility and affordability of e-learning
- Argument 2: Challenges like lack of face-to-face interaction and distractions
- Counterpoint: Blended learning as an ideal approach
- Conclusion: Online education is a supplement, not a substitute
Essay:
Introduction:
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the growth of online education worldwide. With institutions shifting to virtual platforms, the learning landscape has undergone a significant transformation. This essay explores the impact of online education on traditional learning systems.
Body:
Online education offers flexibility, accessibility, and cost-effective learning opportunities. Platforms like SWAYAM, Coursera, and Byju’s have empowered students in remote areas and working professionals alike. However, online classes often lack the personal interaction and discipline offered by traditional classrooms. Students face challenges such as screen fatigue, distractions at home, and limited social engagement.
A balanced solution lies in blended learning, where the best of both models can be integrated. This approach allows theoretical learning online while maintaining practical, in-person experiences.
Conclusion:
While online education is a revolutionary tool, it should complement—not replace—traditional learning. A hybrid system can ensure quality, inclusivity, and effectiveness in the future of education.
Extra Tips for Better Essays
- Start Strong – A powerful introduction hooks the reader.
- Avoid Jargon – Keep language formal but simple.
- Use Data and Facts – If you remember schemes (like PMJDY or Digital India), include them.
- Be Original – Don’t copy memorized content. Be authentic.
- Stay Balanced – Don’t be too extreme. A balanced, rational tone scores better.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Writing more than 250 words | Stay concise and relevant |
| No conclusion or abrupt ending | Always close with a proper summary |
| Using slang or casual tone | Keep it professional |
| Repeating the same point | Add variety and different angles |
| Going off-topic | Keep rechecking the prompt |
How to Practice This Strategy
- Set a timer for 20 minutes while writing each essay.
- Use previous year SBI PO essay topics and this year’s expected topics.
- Get feedback on your essays through platforms like Bank Whizz.
- Maintain an essay notebook with outlines and model intros/conclusions.
10 Practice Topics to Apply This Strategy
- Role of Artificial Intelligence in Banking
- Cybersecurity in the Age of Digital Banking
- Women Empowerment: Challenges and Progress
- India’s Startup Ecosystem: A Boon for Youth
- Green Energy and Sustainable Future
- Impact of UPI and Digital Payments
- Social Media: Tool for Awareness or Distraction?
- Privatization of Public Sector Banks
- Remote Work: A New Normal
- Financial Literacy for Inclusive Growth
Tools and Resources for Practice
- Bank Whizz Descriptive Mocks
- Grammarly for grammar correction
- The Hindu Editorials for structure and vocabulary
- Google Docs Voice Typing for typing fluency practice
Conclusion
Scoring high in the SBI PO 2025 Essay section is not just about knowledge—it’s about presenting ideas with clarity, structure, and confidence. By following this step-by-step essay writing strategy, you can ensure that every minute is used wisely, every word has purpose, and every essay leaves a strong impression.
If you’re looking for expert-reviewed mocks, topic-wise strategy sessions, and sample essays, join the Bank Whizz SBI PO Descriptive Course—your one-stop guide to mastering Descriptive English.