Introduction
Preparing for competitive exams like IBPS PO can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding the right resources for practice. This comprehensive review aims to guide aspirants through the various online platforms and tools available, focusing on Smartkeeda, PRACTICEMOCK, Oliveboard, and Testbook. Each platform has its strengths and weaknesses. This review will help you understand which platform best suits your needs and how to leverage them effectively.
Starting with the Basics
My journey began with YouTube where I watched tutorial videos by teachers to clear my basics in reasoning and quantitative aptitude. These videos were instrumental in laying a solid foundational understanding. To reinforce my learning, I took useful notes and practiced questions from various YouTube channels. This practice helped in retaining key points and tricks, laying a strong base for further study.
Exploring Different Platforms
Smartkeeda: A Versatile Resource
Smartkeeda is an invaluable tool for candidates looking to solve topic-wise questions. The site is well-organized, making it easy to focus on specific areas of interest. I found the questions helpful in consolidating my knowledge and improving my problem-solving skills. However, the User Interface (UI) could use some improvement, and sometimes the mock tests feel too challenging, which can be discouraging.
PRACTICEMOCK: Relevance and Variety
PRACTICEMOCK is a reliable platform for those who want to prepare thoroughly for the IBPS PO exam. It offers daily quizzes and sectional mocks that are highly relevant to the exam. These regular practice sessions help in identifying weak areas and improving over time. However, there have been instances where a particular section was made too difficult, particularly in the English section. This can be both a boon and a bane, as it helps in assessing your preparedness for the exam but also in pushing you to improve.
Oliveboard: The Ultimate Performance Platform
Oliveboard stands out as my favorite platform. Despite being relatively expensive, it offers a vast array of mock tests that are highly competitive and relevant. It's designed to mimic the actual exam experience, complete with a realistic user interface. Additionally, the analysis provided is exceptionally detailed and helpful. The platform attracts a large number of serious aspirants, making it an excellent way to gauge your position relative to your peers.
Testbook: Budget-Friendly and Comprehensive
Testbook is an economical option that provides a sufficient number of questions for practice. It's particularly suitable for beginners who want to familiarize themselves with the exam format. Although the content has seen improvements over time, it still offers a wide range of practice materials. The comprehensive nature of Testbook makes it a solid choice for those who are looking for a wide variety of questions without breaking the bank.
Practical Recommendations
Based on my experience, here are some practical tips for using these platforms effectively:
Consistent Practice: Regularly attempting tests on a computer or laptop, rather than a mobile device, is highly recommended. The mouse and keyboard functionalities work better during the real exam, and you'll get used to the interface. Comprehensive Mock Tests: Utilizing multiple platforms ensures a diverse range of questions and prepares you for different types of challenges. Monitor Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Analyze your performance on each test to identify areas that need more attention and work on improving them.Conclusion
Choosing the right platform for your IBPS PO preparation is crucial. Whether you opt for Smartkeeda, PRACTICEMOCK, Oliveboard, or Testbook, it's important to tailor your approach based on your personal learning style and the resources available. By leveraging these platforms effectively, you can significantly enhance your chances of success in the IBPS PO exam.