BAT 2020 Syllabus A Complete Guide

The Banking Aptitude Test (BAT) is a competitive exam used by many Indian banks to recruit clerks, probationary officers, and specialist officers. The 2020 edition follows a welldefined syllabus that assesses candidates on quantitative ability, reasoning, general awareness, and English language skills. This page breaks down each section, highlights the key topics, and offers study tips to help you prepare efficiently.

1. Quantitative Aptitude

The quantitative section tests speed, accuracy, and the ability to apply mathematical concepts to realworld banking scenarios. The 2020 syllabus includes:

• Arithmetic
  • Percentages, profit & loss, discount
  • Simple & compound interest
  • Time & work, time & distance
  • Average, mixture & allegation
  • Ratio & proportion, partnership
• Numbers
  • Divisibility, factors, multiples
  • HCF & LCM
  • Number series (arithmetic, geometric, Fibonacci)
  • Decimals, fractions, and reciprocal
  • Surds and indices
• Algebra
  • Linear equations in one and two variables
  • Quadratic equations (basic concepts)
  • Simple inequalities
  • Word problems converting to equations
• Data Interpretation
  • Bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts, and tables
  • Caselets with multiple data sets
  • Percentage increase/decrease calculations
• Miscellaneous
  • Simple probability
  • Permutation & combination (basic level)
  • Set theory (union, intersection, complement)

2. Reasoning Ability

Reasoning evaluates logical thinking, pattern recognition, and analytical ability. Topics covered in the 2020 syllabus are:

• Verbal & nonverbal analogies
• Seating arrangement (circular, linear)
• Blood relations & family tree
• Direction and distance (clockwise, anticlockwise)
• Syllogisms & logical deductions
• Series alphabets, numbers, symbols
• Clock problems
• Data sufficiency (basic level)
• Classification & coding/decoding

3. English Language

The English section tests command over grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. The 2020 syllabus focuses on:

• Reading comprehension (single & multiple passages)
• Synonyms & antonyms
• Spotting errors in sentences
• Fill in the blanks (single word/phrase)
• Sentence improvement
• Active / passive transformation
• Direct & indirect speech
• Prepositions, conjunctions, articles
• Paragraph completion

4. General Awareness

A solid grasp of current events and general knowledge is essential for a banking career. The 2020 syllabus includes:

• Banking & financial awareness
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) functions
  • Major Indian banks and their recent developments
  • Banking terminology (NPA, CRR, SLR, etc.)
  • Government schemes related to banking
• Economic concepts
  • Inflation, fiscal & monetary policy
  • GDP, GNP, balance of payments
  • Types of markets (stock, commodity, foreign exchange)
• Current affairs (national & international) last 612 months
• Static GK Indian polity, geography, history, culture
• Science & technology highlights
• Sports achievements (Olympics, Commonwealth Games, etc.)

5. Suggested Study Plan

1. Analyse the syllabus Mark topics you are strong in and those that need more work.
2. Create a timetable Allocate 23 hours daily, rotating subjects to keep the mind fresh.
3. Practice with mock tests Take a fulllength test every weekend to build stamina and timing.
4. Review mistakes Keep an error log; understand why you erred and revise that concept.
5. Read daily Follow a reliable currentaffairs portal, and read at least one editorial each day.
6. Strengthen basics For Quantitative Aptitude, focus on mental calculation tricks; for Reasoning, practice pattern sets.
7. Take care of health Short breaks, adequate sleep, and light exercise improve concentration.

6. Recommended Resources

• Standard textbooks: R.S. Aggarwal (Quantitative Aptitude), A Modern Approach to Verbal & NonVerbal Reasoning.
• Online platforms: BankersAdda, Byjus for video lessons.
• Current affairs magazines: Pratiyogita Darpan, The Hindu Editorial section.
• Mock test series: Oliveboard, Testbook, and Adda247.

7. Final Thoughts

The BAT 2020 syllabus is designed to evaluate a candidates analytical strength, numerical agility, language proficiency, and awareness of the banking sector. By systematically covering each topic, practicing regularly, and staying updated with current events, you can boost both confidence and performance. Remember, consistency beats cramming a steady study routine, coupled with focused revision, will carry you across the finish line.