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UPSC CSAT Marks Calculator 2025, Negative Marking

CSAT marks calculator is a tool to calculate marks in the UPSC Prelims CSAT paper based on the correct and incorrect answers. Find the CSAT marks calculator here.
authorImageSheetal Gaur18 Apr, 2025
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UPSC CSAT Marks Calculator

 

UPSC CSAT Marks Calculator: The Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT), also known as General Studies Paper II, is a crucial part of the UPSC Preliminary Examination. CSAT marks calculator is designed to calculate the CSAT marks according to the marking scheme and negative marking. However, understanding how CSAT marks are calculated, including the implications of negative marking, is essential for aspirants.

CSAT Marks Calculator 2025

The CSAT paper is designed to test a candidate's aptitude in various areas such as comprehension, logical reasoning, analytical ability, decision-making, and general mental ability. It is a qualifying paper, and a score of a minimum of 33% marks needed to qualify for CSAT.
The primary objective of the CSAT marks calculator is to help candidates accurately predict their scores based on their performance in the exam. By understanding how marks are allocated and deducted, candidates can better strategize their preparation and improve their chances of qualifying.  

UPSC CSAT Paper Structure

Before using the CSAT Marks Calculator online, it is crucial for candidates to understand the CSAT exam pattern. The CSAT paper consists of 80 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), each carrying 2.5 marks, making the total marks for the paper 200. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the CSAT paper structure:
Total Number of Questions 80 MCQ-types
Marks for Correct Answer 2.5
Total Marks 200
Time Allotment 2 hours
Negative Marking 1/3rd of the marks assigned (0.83)

CSAT Qualifying Marks

The CSAT paper is a qualifying paper, and candidates must score at least 33% to pass. This translates to 66.67 marks out of 200. The CSAT qualifying marks are the minimum scores you need to achieve to pass the exam. If you don't reach these marks, you won't be eligible to move forward in the selection process. 
These marks act as a benchmark to ensure candidates have a basic level of competency.  Meeting these marks is essential for progressing to the next stage of the exam. It's important to prepare well to meet or exceed these qualifying marks.

Negative Marking in CSAT

Negative marking is implemented to prevent random guessing and encourage thoughtful responses. Guessing without being sure might lower your overall score, so it's best to answer only if you're confident. For each incorrect answer, 1/3rd of the marks assigned to that question are deducted. Here’s how the negative marking system works:
Type of Answer Marks Allocated
Correct Answer +2.5
Incorrect Answer -0.83
Unattempted Question 0

How to Use the CSAT Marks Calculator? 

To use the CSAT marks calculator, let us take an example of a candidate who has attempted 55 questions out of the 80 on the CSAT paper. Based on reliable answer keys, they have marked 45 answers correctly and 10 incorrectly.

  • Marks for Correct Answers:
    • Correct answers: 45
    • Marks per correct answer: 2.5
    • Total marks for correct answers: 45 x 2.5 = 112.5
  • Negative Marks for Incorrect Answers:
    • Incorrect answers: 10
    • Marks deducted per incorrect answer: 0.83
    • Total negative marks: 10 x 0.83 = 8.3
  • Net Total Marks:
    • Total marks for correct answers: 112.5
    • Total negative marks: 8.3
    • Net total marks: 112.5 - 8.3 = 104.2
Attempted Questions Correct Answers Incorrect Answers Total Marks (Correct) Negative Marks Net Total Marks
55 45 10 112.5 8.3 104.2

Importance of Understanding CSAT Marks Calculation 

Understanding how CSAT marks are calculated helps candidates to:
  • Strategize Better: By knowing the impact of incorrect answers, candidates can minimize negative markings.
  • Assess Performance: Accurately predict their scores and identify areas for improvement.
  • Qualify Efficiently: Ensure they meet the qualifying marks through careful planning and practice.

Also Check, UPSC CSAT Syllabus 2025

Tips for Maximizing CSAT Scores

Accurately calculating CSAT marks is crucial for UPSC aspirants. Understanding the structure, negative marking, and using a CSAT marks calculator can help candidates better prepare and strategize for the exam. Here are some tips for
  1. Focus on Strengths: Concentrate on sections where you are strong to maximize correct answers.
  1. Avoid Guesswork: Since there is a negative marking, avoid guessing. Attempt only those questions you are sure about.
  1. Time Management: Practice managing your time effectively during mock tests to ensure you can attempt all questions confidently.
  1. Regular Practice: Regularly practice mock tests and previous years' papers to build confidence and accuracy.
  1. Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the CSAT syllabus and focus on key areas to cover all important topics.

Prepare for the UPSC CSAT exam with ease by exploring the guidance program at Physics Wallah! 

CSAT Marks Calculator FAQs

How to do CSAT marks calculation in UPSC Prelims?

CSAT marks are calculated by adding the total marks obtained from correct answers and subtracting the negative marks for incorrect answers.

What are the CSAT qualifying marks?

The CSAT qualifying marks are 33% of the total marks, which is 66 out of 200.

How many questions should I attempt to qualify for CSAT?

To safely qualify, aim to correctly answer at least 27 questions (27 x 2.5 = 67.5 marks) while minimizing incorrect answers to avoid negative marking.

Can I use a CSAT marks calculator online?

Yes, you can use an online CSAT marks calculator to input your correct and incorrect answers and calculate your expected score.

How does negative marking work in CSAT?

For each incorrect answer, 1/3rd of the marks assigned to that question (0.83 marks) are deducted.
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