What are Penalty Marks in UPSC Mains Exam?
Penalty marks in UPSC Mains are imposed for violations of instructions. Read on to learn the reasons behind penalty marks in UPSC Mains and how to avoid them.
Deeksha Dixit4 Sept, 2024
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Penalty Marks in UPSC Mains : Many candidates are unaware of the penalty marks policy in the UPSC Mains examination , leading to mistakes that result in mark deductions. Violations like writing religious signs on the answer sheet or directly/indirectly appealing to the examiner can incur significant penalties, potentially excluding candidates from the final list.
Thus, penalty marks in the UPSC Mains exam can severely affect a candidate's score, leading to lower rankings or disqualification. These marks can be imposed for various reasons, so it is crucial to understand and avoid actions that result in penalties to ensure a better overall performance.Penalty Marks in UPSC Mains
In the UPSC CSE exam, Mains is a crucial stage, as its score determines the merit list. While candidates focus on their subject knowledge and writing skills, they must also be aware of a lesser-known yet an equally important factor, 'penalty marks in UPSC Mains'. The penalty in UPSC Mains is deductions made from a candidate's total score by Commissions for violation of its instructions . It may vary from 5 marks to 25 marks or even more depending on mistakes made by candidates in the QCAB (Question-cum-Answer Booklet). Here are some examples of previous year penalty marks in UPSC Mains:
This penalty in UPSC Mains can significantly impact a candidate's overall performance and final ranking. Candidates should take UPSC Mains penalty marks seriously as they can mean the difference between success and failure.
Reasons Behind Penalty Marks in UPSC Mains
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) imposes penalty marks in UPSC Mains to ensure that all candidates adhere to the prescribed rules and guidelines in the ‘ UPSC Mains Penalty Marks PDF ’, creating a level playing field for everyone. UPSC notification clearly mentions, “Candidates should note that if any irrelevant matter/signages/marks, etc. are found written in the answer script(s), which would not be related to any question/answer and/or would have the potential to disclose the candidate’s identity, the Commission will impose a penalty of deduction of marks from the total marks otherwise accruing to the candidate or will not evaluate the said script(s) on this account.” Here are reasons that may lead to penalty marks in UPSC Mains:Writing Irrelevant Matters
One of the primary reasons for penalty marks is the inclusion of irrelevant content in answers. Candidates are expected to provide precise and relevant answers to the questions asked. Writing off-topic or including irrelevant information can result in penalty marks.
Disclosing Identity
Candidates are strictly prohibited from disclosing their identity in any form within the answer scripts. This includes writing names, roll numbers, or any other identifying information. Any such disclosure can result in penalty marks as it compromises the impartiality of the examination process.
Excessive Writing
Candidates must adhere to the word limits specified for each question. Writing excessively beyond these limits can result in penalty marks if candidates strike out the next question or write beyond allowable space. It is essential to practice precise answer writing to avoid falling into this trap.
Answering in Mixed Language Medium
UPSC allows candidates to write their answers in the medium of their choice, which they have to specify in the application form. However, switching between languages within the same answer or across different answers can attract penalty marks.
Answering Partly in Ink and Partly in Pencil
Candidates are required to write their answers in ink. Using a combination of ink and pencil can lead to penalty marks. This rule ensures uniformity and prevents any form of tampering.
Direct/Indirect Appeal to Examiner
Candidates are not allowed to make any direct or indirect appeals to the examiner, as this could be seen as an attempt to influence the evaluation process. They must refrain from making any personal requests or comments in their answers. Doing so can result in penalty marks.
Bad/Illegible Handwriting
Candidates are expected to maintain legible handwriting throughout the examination. Examiners must be able to read and understand the answers without any difficulty. Poor or illegible handwriting can lead to misinterpretation of the answers, resulting in penalty marks.
Contravention of Any Other Instructions
UPSC provides specific instructions for candidates regarding the conduct and format of the examination. Any contravention of these instructions, such as failure to adhere to the prescribed margins, use of unauthorized materials, etc. can attract penalty marks in UPSC Mains.
How to Avoid Penalty Marks in UPSC Mains?
The simple way to avoid the penalty marks in UPSC Mains is to pay special attention to the guidelines, read the UPSC Mains Penalty Marks PDF thoroughly, and take a disciplined approach to writing answers. Here are some tips to help candidates avoid common pitfalls:- Follow Instructions: Read and follow all instructions provided by UPSC in UPSC Notification and ‘General Mistakes in Conventional (Descriptive) Papers’ or UPSC Mains Penalty Marks PDF.
- Stick to the Point: Focus on answering the question directly and avoid including irrelevant information. This ensures that your answer is concise and to the point.
- Maintain Anonymity: Never disclose your identity in any form. Follow the instructions regarding the use of roll numbers and other identifying marks strictly.
- Adhere to Word Limits : Practice writing within the given word limits during your preparation. Enroll in the PW UPSC Mains Test series to learn time and word limit management.
- Practice Handwriting: Work on improving the legibility of your handwriting. Practice writing neatly and clearly, as this will help the examiner read and understand your answers better.
- Use One Language: Write your answers in the language you have chosen as your medium. Avoid mixing languages within your answers.
- Avoid Appeals: Keep your answers professional and free from any personal appeals or comments directed at the examiner.
| UPSC Related Articles | ||
| UPSC Mains Admit Card | UPSC Optional Subject | UPSC Syllabus 2024 |
| UPSC Mains Exam Pattern 2024 | UPSC Scholarship Test 2024 | UPSC Result 2024 |
Penalty Marks in UPSC Mains FAQs
Are there any penalty marks in UPSC Mains?
Yes, penalty marks are imposed for violations of instructions in the UPSC Mains exam.
What is the penalty in the UPSC Marksheet?
Penalty marks are deductions from the total score for mistakes like writing irrelevant content, disclosing identity, or violating other exam instructions.
Will UPSC deduct marks for bad handwriting?
UPSC does not deduct marks for bad handwriting. However, illegible handwriting can result in penalty marks as it may hinder the examiner's ability to read and understand the answers.
Does UPSC cut marks for spelling mistakes in Mains?
While minor spelling mistakes may not directly lead to penalty marks, frequent or significant errors could affect the overall impression and clarity of answers.
Is there any way to avoid penalty marks in the UPSC Mains exam?
To avoid penalty marks, follow all UPSC guidelines, maintain legible handwriting, stick to the word limits, and ensure answers are relevant and free from any personal identifying information.
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