Mock strategy / Scoring

Negative marking sample question

Read the question, answer, option analysis and revision tip before taking a timed mock.

By Sarkari Engine Editorial DeskLast updated 6 August 2026Method, answer logic and revision steps reviewed

Question

In a test with negative marking, when is a doubtful question usually worth attempting?

  1. A. When no option can be eliminated
  2. B. When at least some options can be rejected for clear reasons
  3. C. When time is almost over
  4. D. Whenever the question looks familiar

Correct answer

Option B: When at least some options can be rejected for clear reasons

A doubtful question becomes a controlled risk only when options can be eliminated for clear reasons. Blind guessing can reduce the score under negative marking.

Why the other options are wrong

  • No elimination means the attempt is a blind guess.
  • Time pressure alone is not a reason to attempt.
  • Familiarity can be misleading if the concept is not actually known.

Solution method

  1. Separate knowledge from familiarity: state one reason an option is right or wrong.
  2. Count how many options can be eliminated for defensible reasons.
  3. Apply the paper's actual marking rule and your pre-decided risk threshold before attempting.

Concept boundary

Elimination improves a decision only when the rejected options are ruled out for real conceptual reasons. Time running out, a familiar phrase or a streak of one answer letter does not improve probability. The exact attempt threshold depends on marks for a correct answer, penalty for a wrong answer and the student's confidence calibration.

Transfer practice

A student can confidently reject two of four options but has no basis to choose between the remaining two. Is this the same as a blind four-option guess?

Check the transfer answer

No

The probability has changed because two options were eliminated for reasons. Whether the remaining risk is worth taking still depends on the marking scheme and the student's attempt rule.

Practice tip

Write a skip rule before the mock begins so the timer does not decide your risk level.

This is original practice material for concept review, not a claim that the same wording will appear in an official paper. Report an unclear or outdated explanation through the contact page.

For more public examples, return to sample questions. To apply this review style under a timer, open the free demo quiz.