UPSC Prelims Negative Marking Calculator

General Studies

Total Questions: Correct Answers: Incorrect Answers:

CSAT

Total Questions: Correct Answers: Incorrect Answers:

How to Calculate 1/3 Negative Marking in UPSC Prelims? (1/3 Negative Marking Means in UPSC)

The UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination is a crucial step for aspirants aiming to embark on a career in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). A distinctive feature of this exam is the negative marking system, designed to penalize incorrect answers. In this article, we will delve into how negative marking operates for both the General Studies (GS) and the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT), shedding light on the intricacies of each.

1. General Studies (GS):

Marking Scheme:

• Total Questions: 100
• Marks for Correct Answer: +2
• Marks for Incorrect Answer: -0.66

Calculation Example:

Let's say a candidate attempts 80 questions:

• Correct Answers: 60
• Incorrect Answers: 20

Total Marks=(60×2)−(20×0.66)
Total Marks=120−13.2
Total Marks=106.8

Explanation:

• The candidate receives +2 for each correct answer, leading to a cumulative total of 120 marks.
• For each incorrect answer, 0.66 marks are deducted, resulting in a penalty of 13.2 marks.
• The final total is 106.8 marks.

2. Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT):

Marking Scheme:

• Total Questions: 80
• Marks for Correct Answer: +2.5
• Marks for Incorrect Answer: -0.83

Calculation Example:

Suppose a candidate attempts 70 questions:

• Correct Answers: 50
• Incorrect Answers: 20

Total Marks=(50×2.5)−(20×0.83)
Total Marks=125−16.6
Total Marks=108.4

Explanation:

• Each correct answer fetches +2.5 marks, accumulating to 125 marks for 50 correct responses.
• For every incorrect answer, 0.83 marks are deducted, resulting in a penalty of 16.6 marks.
• The final total stands at 108.4 marks.

Understanding the negative marking system is crucial for UPSC aspirants, as it emphasizes the importance of accuracy over blind guessing. The penalty for incorrect responses is substantial, underlining the need for a strategic approach to maximize overall scores. Aspirants are advised to carefully consider the potential impact of negative marking while attempting questions, aiming for a balanced and informed approach in both the General Studies and the Civil Services Aptitude Test.