What are Penalty Marks in UPSC Mains Exam?

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.

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Penalty Marks in UPSC Mains

Reasons Behind Penalty Marks in UPSC Mains

Writing Irrelevant Matters

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Disclosing Identity

Excessive Writing

Answering in Mixed Language Medium

Answering Partly in Ink and Partly in Pencil

Direct/Indirect Appeal to Examiner

Bad/Illegible Handwriting

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Contravention of Any Other Instructions

How to Avoid Penalty Marks in UPSC Mains?

• 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.