Are you preparing for the highly regarded NDA exam and target the prestigious seat at the National Defence Academy? Then there is something important here you cannot ignore negative marking. While many candidates have enough knowledge, they often lose valuable grades because they do not understand how the marking plan actually works. In this article, we dive deeply on how negative marking in NDA exam can affect your score additionally how to tackle it strategically and effectively
What is negative marking in the NDA exam?
In the NDA written examination, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) uses a negative marking scheme to assess the accuracy of your answers. In simple words for each wrong answer, marks are deducted. This approach is designed to minimize guesswork and promote accuracy in answering. Students preparing through reputed NDA coaching in Chandigarh are often trained extensively on how to handle such marking schemes effectively to maximize their scores.
Let’s understand
- For mathematics: Each question has 2.5 marks, and 0.83 marks are deducted for each wrong answer.
- For general Aptitude test (GAT): Each question has 4 marks, and 1.33 marks are cut for each wrong answer.
Therefore, if you guess wrong, you not only score zero but also you lose valuable points.
Why is there negative marking in the NDA exam?
Negative marking aims to prevent blind guessing and it does not aim to make the exam difficult. This meets many strategic goals:
- Encourage thoughtful and informed answering
- Prioritize correct responses over the number of questions attempted
- Selects candidates who are genuinely prepare
This scheme ensures that the selected candidates are not only knowledgeable, but also strategic and disciplined – which are essential in defence forces.
How is the NDA exam structured?
To master negative marking, you must understand the structure of the exam:
1. Mathematics paper
Total marks: 300
- Number of questions: 120
- Every correct answer: +2.5
- Every wrong answer: -0.83
2. General aptitude test (GAT):
Total marks: 600
- Number of questions: 150
- Every correct answer: +4
- Each incorrect answer: -1.33
Total NDA scores: 900
As you can see, getting high scores can even significantly reduce your total score.
Maths behind negative marking: a single example
Let’s break it.
Suppose in GAT paper, you tried 100 questions:
- 70 correct = 70 × 4 = 280
- 30 errors = 30 × (-1,33) = -39.9
Final score = 280 – 39.9 = 240.1
Imagine if you had unanswered the 30 questions. You want to score 280 races instead of losing points. This is where the strategy beats the estimates.
Top 10 tips to exclude negative marking in the NDA exam
Ready to beat the competition with the help of Best NDA Coaching in Chandigarh? Here are 10 proven strategies to reduce negative marking and maximize your score:
1. Strong start up
Avoiding negative marking begins with strong preparation. Make sure you know each topic listed in the NDA course. The better you know your syllabus, the less you make mistakes.
2. First focus on your strength
During the exam, start with subjects that you are most confident in. It helps to speed and reduce the chances of mistakes.
3. Remove the wrong options
If you are unsure of the correct answer, try first to eliminate clearly wrong options. Often it can leave you a 50/50 chance – even if you have to guess.
4. Avoid blind guessing
This is an important point. If you are not sure about the answer so leave it. At least it will not affect your scores
5. Manage your time
Negative marking often occurs when candidates run at the last time. Maintain a stable speed and avoid nervousness.
6. Practice with mock tests
Take many mock tests under conditions such as the exam. This helps you develop an experience for proper speed and reduce the estimate.
7. Analyse your errors
Review your mistakes after each practice test. Look for the pattern – do you lose scores in a particular section? Fix the weak points.
8. Master the art of skipping
The best candidates know when they should not respond. If a question looks misleading or unknown, leave it. It’s a smart tip.
9. Do exercise daily
Many students know the answers, but do make mistakes because of pressure and anxiety. Regular exercise, breathing exercise and cool thinking can help them to support their answers.
10. Stay up to date with last year’s question papers
Go through at least 5 years of NDA exam pattern. It gives you the idea of often asked topics and helps you start your preparation with positive point.
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