How to Tackle Negative Marking in SSC CGL Tier-1 Exam?

The SSC CGL Tier-1 exam is a highly competitive and challenging examination because of lakhs of candidates appeared for this examination every year. One of the most significant aspects of this exam is negative marking, which can have a significant impact on a candidate’s final score. Here are some effective strategies to help you tackle negative marking in the SSC CGL Tier-1 exam.

Understanding the Marking Scheme
Before we take about the strategies, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the marking scheme for the SSC CGL Tier-1 exam. The knowledge of marking scheme will serve as the foundation for the strategies you use to tackle negative marking in the exam. The marking scheme is as follows:
Correct answer: +2 mark
Incorrect answer: -0.50 mark
Unattempted question: 0 mark

Prioritize Accuracy Over Quantity
One of the most important principles to keep in mind when facing negative marking is to prioritize accuracy over quantity. It is better to have fewer correct answers than to try answering every single question. If you attempt questions you’re not sure about, you risk getting them wrong and losing marks. It’s better to have a smaller number of right answers than a larger number of wrong answers that end up costing you marks. This approach requires a disciplined and focused mindset, where you carefully evaluate each question and only attempt those that you are confident about.

Use the “No Wrong Answer” Approach

Instead of guessing blindly, it’s better to simply leave a question unattempted. That way, you don’t lose any marks. An unattempted question is better than an incorrect answer that costs you marks. This is especially important in the later stages of the exam, when you might be feeling pressured to answer everything. But it’s important to resist the urge to guess. Be disciplined, and only attempt the questions you’re confident about. Leaving some questions blank is better than risking negative marks.

Start with Easy Questions
In the exam hall  it is advisable to start the exam by tackling the easier questions first. This approach serves multiple purposes:
1. It boosts your confidence and helps you score quick points.
2. It reduces the stress and anxiety that can arise from attempting more challenging questions.
3. It allows you to think more clearly and strategically when approaching the tougher questions.

Read Questions and Options Carefully
Attention to detail is crucial when navigating the SSC CGL Tier-1 exam, especially in the context of negative marking. Read each question carefully, not just once but twice. This helps you avoid missing important details, like negative words like “not” or “except” that can change the meaning of the question.

Use Elimination Strategy
When faced with a question that you are unsure about, the elimination strategy can be a powerful tool. By systematically eliminating the obviously incorrect options, you can increase your chances of selecting the correct answer. This approach is particularly effective when you are able to eliminate two options, as it gives you a 50% chance of being correct.

Time Management: Three-Round Approach
Effective time management is essential in the SSC CGL Tier-1 exam, as candidates have to solve 100 questions in 60 minutes. Ideal approach is to divide your time into three distinct rounds:
1. First round (70% of time): Answer all questions you are confident about.
2. Second round (25% of time): Answer moderately difficult questions using the elimination strategy.
3. Third round (5% of time): Quickly review your answers, but avoid making last-minute changes.

Practice with Mock Tests
Consistent practice with mock tests is a crucial component of your preparation for the SSC CGL Tier-1 exam. Mock tests not only familiarize you with the exam pattern but also help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. By taking multiple mock tests, you can improve your time management skills, learn which types of questions you tend to get wrong, and develop effective strategies to tackle negative marking.

Know When to Skip
In the face of negative marking, it is important to know when to skip a question. If you are completely unsure about a question, it is better to leave it unattempted rather than risk a wrong answer and incur negative marks. Remember, an unattempted question is better than an incorrect answer.

Avoid Last-Minute Changes
Trust your initial instincts. Changing answers at the last minute often leads to more errors, as you may second-guess your original thought process. Stick to your initial responses unless you are absolutely confident that the change is needed.

Stay Calm and Focused
Maintaining patience and focus during the exam is crucial, as stress and anxiety can lead to careless mistakes and over guessing. Candidates must add relaxation techniques in their routines, such as deep breathing exercises, to help you stay calm and focused throughout the exam.

By implementing these strategies, you can minimize the impact of negative marking and maximize your score in the SSC CGL Tier-1 exam. Remember, the key is to balance speed with accuracy and to approach the exam with a clear, strategic mindset.