The NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is a crucial gateway for aspiring medical students in India, and its rigorous examination pattern requires meticulous preparation. One of the major challenges candidates face is the issue of negative marking, where incorrect answers result in a deduction of marks. With each wrong answer leading to a loss of one mark, it’s essential to approach the exam strategically to minimize these penalties.
This blog gives details about practical techniques and tips to help NEET aspirants navigate this challenge, offering insights on preparation methods, time management, and test-taking strategies to improve accuracy and minimize negative marking.
NEET Marking Scheme 2025
This table summarizes the marking scheme clearly and concisely for easier understanding and reference.
| Scenario | Marks Awarded |
| Correct Answer | +4 |
| Incorrect Answer | -1 |
| Multiple Correct Answers (if applicable) | +4 (if any one option is marked) |
| Un-attempted/Unanswered Question | 0 |
| Dropped Question | +4 (regardless of attempt) |
Is There Any Negative Marking in the NEET Exam?
In the NEET exam, negative marking is an important factor to consider. Here’s how it works: for each question you answer incorrectly, one mark is subtracted from your total score. This means that if you guess an answer and get it wrong, it will actually hurt your overall score rather than just not helping it.
So, if you’re unsure about a question, it might be better to skip it rather than risk losing marks by guessing. This makes it crucial to be well-prepared and confident when choosing your answers. The aim is to maximize your correct answers while minimizing incorrect ones to avoid losing marks.
NEET Exam Pattern 2025 (Updated)
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced significant changes to the NEET UG 2025 exam pattern, reverting to the pre-COVID format. The optional Section B has been removed, and the exam duration has been reduced. Here’s the updated exam pattern:
NEET UG 2025 Exam Pattern
| Subject | Number of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 45 | 180 |
| Chemistry | 45 | 180 |
| Botany | 45 | 180 |
| Zoology | 45 | 180 |
| Total | 180 | 720 |
10 Tips To Decrease Negative Marking in the Upcoming NEET Exam
Facing the NEET exam can be daunting, especially with the added challenge of negative marking. To help you navigate this aspect effectively and maximize your score, here are ten practical tips to reduce the chances of losing marks due to incorrect answers.
Understand the Exam Pattern Thoroughly
Get familiar with the NEET exam pattern before you start studying. Know how many questions are in each section, the types of questions, and how negative marking works. This helps you plan your strategy better and avoid mistakes during the test.
Focus on Your Strengths
Identify the subjects and topics you’re strongest in and focus on them. When you’re confident in certain areas, you’re less likely to make mistakes. Prioritize these topics in your study plan to ensure you score well and minimize negative marking.
Practice with Mock Tests
Regularly take mock tests and practice papers to get used to the exam format. This will help you become more comfortable with the type of questions asked and the time pressure, reducing the chances of making errors on the actual test day.
Review Your Mistakes
After each mock test, carefully review the mistakes you made. Understanding why you got certain questions wrong will help you avoid similar mistakes in the future. Learn from your errors to improve your accuracy.
Improve Your Time Management
Practice managing your time effectively during mock tests. Allocate enough time to each question and avoid spending too long on any single question. Good time management helps you stay calm and make fewer mistakes.
Avoid Guesswork
If you’re unsure about an answer, it’s better to skip the question rather than guessing. Guessing can lead to negative marking if you’re wrong. Focus on answering questions you’re confident about to maximize your score and minimize penalties.
Use Elimination Techniques
For questions you’re unsure about, use the process of elimination to narrow down your options. Cross out the obviously wrong choices to increase your chances of picking the right answer and reduce the risk of negative marking.
Read Questions Carefully
Ensure you read each question thoroughly before answering. Misinterpreting a question can lead to mistakes. Pay attention to details and understand what the question is asking to avoid errors.
Stay Calm and Focused
During the exam, try to stay calm and focused. Anxiety and stress can lead to careless mistakes. Take deep breaths, stay positive, and keep a clear mind to improve your performance and reduce negative marking.
Revise Regularly
Regular revision helps to reinforce what you’ve learned and keeps the information fresh in your mind. Make time to review key concepts and practice questions periodically to build confidence and accuracy in your answers.
How to Calculate Negative Marking in NEET?
Understanding NEET’s negative marking system is crucial to avoid unnecessary score deductions and improve your exam performance strategically.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How to calculate negative marking in NEET | In NEET, 4 marks are awarded for each correct answer, and 1 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer. |
| How to reduce negative marking in NEET PG | To reduce negative marking in NEET PG, practice time management, avoid guessing, and improve accuracy through regular practice. |
| Negative marking in NEET 2024 | Yes, negative marking is applicable in NEET 2024. 1 mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer. |
| How to decrease negative marking in the upcoming NEET exam 2021 | Focus on understanding concepts, avoid wild guesses, and attempt only the questions you are sure about. |
| Is there a negative marking in NEET PG? | Yes, NEET PG also has a negative marking scheme where incorrect answers lead to a deduction of marks. |
| What is a negative marking? | Negative marking is a penalty system where marks are deducted for incorrect answers in an examination. |
| NEET exam pass mark | The passing mark for NEET varies each year and depends on the cutoff set by the authorities. Generally, scoring above the 50th percentile is required. |
How to Decrease Negative Marking in the Upcoming NEET Exam? FAQs
Q1. What is negative marking in the NEET exam?
Negative marking in the NEET exam means you lose one mark for each incorrect answer. It’s important to answer carefully to avoid losing marks.
Q2. How can I avoid losing marks due to negative marking?
To avoid losing marks, only answer questions you’re sure about. If you’re unsure, it’s better to leave the question blank rather than guess.
Q3. Should I skip difficult questions on the NEET exam?
Yes, if you find a question too difficult and are unsure of the answer, it’s better to skip it rather than risk losing marks with a guess.
Q4. How important is time management in reducing negative marking?
Good time management is crucial. It helps you allocate enough time to each question and avoid rushing, which reduces the chances of making mistakes.
Q5. How can I stay calm during the NEET exam to avoid careless mistakes?
To stay calm, practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing. Being calm helps you think more clearly and reduce the chances of making careless mistakes.
