The Quantitative Aptitude section of the 2023 SBI PO Mains exam was exceptionally challenging, with many candidates finding it to be one of the toughest they have faced in recent years. The section consisted of 35 questions, with a mix of traditional topics and new question formats that made it stand out from previous years. The Data Interpretation (DI) and Arithmetic sections were particularly difficult, with complicated and time-consuming questions that required multiple steps to solve.
The DI questions featured complex caselet DIs, radar graphs, and pie charts with ratio-based logic, which were unfamiliar to many candidates. The arithmetic questions were also tricky, with long statements and extra information that required careful attention to detail. Number series and quadratic equations were presented in unusual patterns, making them confusing to solve under exam pressure.
Compared to previous years, the 2023 Quantitative Aptitude section was significantly more challenging. The 2020 exam was moderate, with common DI and arithmetic questions, while the 2021 exam was known for its extremely difficult DI sets and lengthy arithmetic. The 2022 section was also challenging, but had more structured and predictable questions. In contrast, the 2023 exam featured a mix of traditional topics with new twists, making it a unique and difficult challenge.
Experts believed that attempting around 8-10 questions with accuracy would have been considered a good performance in this section, given the high level of difficulty. The overall difficulty level was rated as tough, and many candidates reported spending a large part of their exam time on this section. The strict time pressure and need for careful interpretation and calculation added to the challenge, making the 2023 SBI PO Mains Quantitative Aptitude section one of the most difficult in recent years.
The complexity of the questions and the need for careful attention to detail made the section challenging for many candidates. The unfamiliar formats and twists on traditional topics caught many off guard, and the time pressure added to the stress. Overall, the 2023 SBI PO Mains Quantitative Aptitude section was a significant challenge for candidates, requiring careful preparation and attention to detail to navigate successfully.