Negative Marking

Negative markings are common in most competitive exams. The Kerala PSC exams have a negative system of marking as well. For every category of the civil service sector, including stenographer as well, 0.33 marks are deducted (1/3). 1 mark is accorded to every correctly answered question. 40 marks are the minimum marks that candidates have to secure out of 100 in each paper. For the Kerala PSC exams for stenographers, they have to prepare themselves extensively. The whole process is long and arduous. The syllabus for each section is huge, and the candidates might get overwhelmed. The possibility of negative marking also makes proper preparation crucial. The preparation of succinct and objective notes is very important. Solving MCQs, mock tests, and practising with previous years’ questions papers for each category of the Kerala PSC is essential. This can lead to increased knowledge and retention of that knowledge. If candidates wish to score good marks, they have to adopt a more efficient and strategic method of preparing. Any other additional information on negative marking is available on the official website. Follow the updated guidelines and regulations issued by the Kerala PSC. 

Negative Marking in Kerala PSC 2022

There are three sections of the entire process in Kerala PSC 2022 for the stenographer position. Each has its own set of characteristics. Negative marking is available only in one of those exams. 

• Screening test (200)
• Interview (50)
• Descriptive Papers (300)

Prelims

• 100 marks for every paper. It gives a total of 200 marks
• Time is 3 hours (1.5 each)
• Negative marking is applied
• The exams are conducted generally in two languages: Malayalam and English
• 1/3 marks are deducted for incorrect answers, while 1 mark is accorded to a correctly answered question

Mains

• No negative markings or any MCQ
• There are three papers titled General Studies I along with General Paper-II and General Paper III
• Total mark is 300
• Time Limit is 6 hours (2 hours each)
• Descriptive writing style
• The exams are conducted generally in two languages: Malayalam and English

Interview

Qualified candidates appear for the interview round. Here a personality exam is held on 50 marks. No Negative marks are given here

40 marks are the minimum marks that candidates have to secure out of 100 in each paper

Ways of Avoiding Negative Scores in Kerala PSC

While it is possible to score full out of each paper, it is not possible for every candidate. So, to encourage students from all walks of life, certain strategic considerations have to be made. These considerations are based upon certain tricks and mostly a thorough and effective study plan. 

• Understanding and reading the questions carefully. Answers must be given only when aspirants are confident that their answers are correct, and they can successfully envision solutions
• Aspirants must be careful to avoid relying on guesswork and estimation. If the objective answer is known, then only the candidate must answer. 
• Previous years samples and examination questions must be practised
• Easier questions must be answered quickly
• Typing exams and mock tests must be given
• Additional practice hours must be devoted to increasing typing speed and listening capabilities
• If candidates have to make any educated guesses, then it should be done at the end of the exam when most of the paper is already completed. After that is done, then a calculated risk can be made if the student is confident about risking a negative marking