How to set negative marking for a mock test
Short answer: Negative marking deducts a fraction of a question's marks for a wrong answer; unattempted questions score zero. Set the same marks and penalty as the real exam's latest official notification, and check it every year because patterns change.
A mock test only prepares students if it penalises wrong answers the way the real exam does. This guide explains how to set marks and penalties.
The basic idea
Each question has a mark for a correct answer and a penalty for a wrong one. Unattempted questions score zero. The penalty is usually a fraction of the question's marks.
Match the real exam
Check the latest official notification for the exam you are preparing students for, and copy its marks and penalty. Exam patterns change between years, so check each year.
In MockBazaar for Coaching
Marks and negative marking are part of the test pattern. Start from an exam blueprint or set your own for each section.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find the official pattern?
In the exam body's latest official notification.
Can I set my own pattern?
Yes. You can follow an exam blueprint or define your own sections, duration and marking.
Keep reading
Start free · Compare plans · How it works · CBT exam software · Sign in · MockBazaar for students