Quantitative Aptitude is one of the highest-scoring sections in the IBPS AFO Prelims exam if approached strategically. Many candidates spend time trying to cover every topic equally, but the smarter approach is to focus first on topics that consistently carry higher weightage and offer quicker scoring opportunities.
A strong Quant strategy should focus on improving calculation speed, mastering core concepts, and identifying topics that can deliver maximum marks with minimum time investment. By prioritizing the right areas, candidates can significantly improve their overall performance and boost their chances of qualifying for the next stage.
The Quantitative Aptitude section in the IBPS AFO 2026 Prelims exam consists of 50 questions carrying 50 marks. Candidates are allotted 40 minutes to complete the section. Since the exam is time-bound, maintaining a balance between speed and accuracy is crucial.
To achieve this, it is important to follow a priority-based preparation plan that focuses on topics carrying the highest weightage in the exam. Concentrating on these areas can help candidates attempt more questions accurately within the available time and improve their chances of clearing the sectional cutoff.
The following topics consistently contribute the highest number of questions in the IBPS AFO Quant section:
|
Topic |
Expected Questions |
|
Data Interpretation (DI) |
15-20 |
|
Arithmetic |
15-20 |
|
Approximation & Simplification |
4-6 |
|
Quadratic Equations |
2-5 |
|
Number Series |
2-5 |
|
Data Sufficiency |
3-5 |
Among these, Data Interpretation, Approximation & Simplification, and Quadratic Equations are considered the most important scoring areas.
Certain topics are comparatively easier and can help candidates secure marks quickly.
This topic is often considered the easiest part of the Quant section. It improves calculation speed and helps candidates attempt questions quickly with good accuracy.
Quadratic Equations are usually formula-based and require limited calculations. With regular practice, candidates can solve these questions in a short amount of time.
Number Series questions test pattern recognition skills. Practicing different types of series regularly can help candidates score consistently in this area.
Together, these topics can contribute around 15 questions and should not be ignored during preparation.
Arithmetic remains a major scoring area in IBPS AFO Quant. Candidates should focus on:
Percentage
Ratio and Proportion
Profit and Loss
Simple Interest
Compound Interest
Average
Time and Work
Speed, Time, and Distance
Mixture and Allegation
Partnership
Problems on Ages
Among these, Percentage and Ratio & Proportion serve as the foundation for many other arithmetic concepts and should be mastered first.
Many candidates make the mistake of starting directly with difficult Arithmetic or Data Interpretation questions. A more effective approach is to build calculation speed first, strengthen core concepts next, and then move to advanced question types.
Start with Approximation & Simplification
Approximation and Simplification should be the first topics in your preparation journey. These questions are relatively easy and help improve calculation speed, which is essential for almost every topic in Quantitative Aptitude.
Regular practice of Simplification also helps reduce calculation errors and improves overall accuracy.
Move to Quadratic Equations and Number Series
Once your calculations become faster, focus on Quadratic Equations and Number Series. These topics are concept-based, require limited calculations, and can help you secure quick marks in the exam.
Since these questions are usually less time-consuming, mastering them can improve your overall attempt count.
Build a Strong Arithmetic Foundation
Arithmetic forms the backbone of the Quant section and contributes a significant number of questions. Begin with foundational topics such as Percentage, Ratio and Proportion, Profit and Loss, Simple Interest, and Compound Interest.
After developing confidence in these areas, move on to Average, Mixture and Allegation, Problems on Ages, Time and Work, Speed, Time and Distance, and Partnership.
Practice Data Interpretation After Arithmetic
Data Interpretation should ideally be prepared after completing the major Arithmetic topics. Most DI questions involve calculations related to percentages, ratios, averages, and comparisons. When your Arithmetic fundamentals are strong, solving DI sets becomes much easier and less time-consuming.
Finish with Regular Mock Tests and Revision
After covering all important topics, shift your focus towards sectional mock tests, previous-year questions, and revision. Mock tests help improve speed, accuracy, and question selection skills, while regular revision ensures that formulas and concepts remain fresh until the exam day.
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