Does a "sleeper" train have seats?
 

I know this sounds like a ridiculous question but we are going to Agra for the day leaving on the Shatabdi train at 6:15 am. The same type of train returns at 8:00pm that day but since we will still be jet-lagged we feel that's too long. Hence we would like to come back on an earlier train say 4 or 5 o'clock but most of the trains at that time only say sleeper. I imagine they have come from a long way away but I really don't want an"upper or lower berth." There's probably something here I'm missing but I'd appreciate some clarification.

See seat61.com for info including pix. You do not want sleeper class, you want an AC class. Seats during the day, berths at night.

Yes they do but you don't want to be there. It would be a stressful ride if you do so. Seats for the day, berths for the night. Take these suggestions.

In addition to what Thursdaysd has already said, if you want the most comfortable ride try AC First Class or AC Two Tier. The Two Tier being more common has 4 berths per block whereas the slightly cheaper AC Three Tier has 6. The rare AC first class is the most expensive but also the most comfortable compartment class.

You do NOT want to be riding in the sleeper class! Even most locals don't take sleeper class if they want a safe and quiet trip. A lot of theft and other nuisance happens on the trains, so the more privacy you have the better the trip will be. Just keep an eye on your belongings and don't let anyone but yourself carry your luggage! Safe and pleasant travels :)

Not sure what bad experiences EmLolita has had, as she's a new poster, but no need to get paranoid. You might want to lock your bigger bag to the straps under the seats/bottom bunk, and I always keep my day bag with the valuables with me, but I've ridden a number of Indian trains with no problems.

I suggest you return in the shatabdi.The other trains are much slower and you'll not save too much of time but add to your discomfort.