Negative Marking in CAT Exam 2024: Tips & Strategies on How to Reduce it

Overview: The CAT exam 2024 is scheduled for 24 November 2024. The format is expected to remain the same as last year, and the negative marking in CAT exam will also stay the same. Read on to know more!

• The last date to fill the CAT exam application form 2024 is 20 September 2024. 
•  This digital format, consisting of both MCQ-type questions and non-MCQ-type questions in all three sections: QA, DILR, and VARC, will be the same as last year.
• The total number of questions will be 66, each carrying +3 marks for the correct answer and -1 negative marking for the wrong answer.

Let's proceed further in this blog to gain a detailed understanding of the negative marking in the CAT exam by learning the total number of questions in each section and the duration.

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Read More | CAT Registration Begins: Apply Before 20 September 2024

What is Negative Marking in CAT Exam 2024?

Understanding the concept of negative marking in the CAT exam is crucial. It's essentially a deduction in marks for every incorrect answer, which can significantly impact your overall score.

The CAT exam has two types: multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and Type-in-the-Answer (TITA).

There will be a deduction for every incorrect answer in the MCQs. For TITA questions, there is no negative marking.

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Does CAT Exam Have Negative Marking 2024?

Yes. There is a negative marking in CAT exam.

• There are a total of 66 questions asked in the CAT exam, and the total marks are 198.
• For each correct answer, +3 marks will be awarded, while -1 marks will be deducted for each wrong answer.
• There will be no negative marks in CAT exam for unanswered questions.
• The Quantitative Ability (QA) section will include non-MCQ questions.
• Non-MCQ questions will not be subject to negative marking.

Before taking the test, it's critical to understand the CAT marking scheme to decide which questions to answer and which to skip. In CAT paper pattern, the marking scheme incorporates negative marking specifically for the multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and not for TITA questions. 

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Checkout | How Many Times CAT Exam is Conducted in a Year

CAT Exam Pattern 2024

The CAT exam pattern is meticulously designed to evaluate candidates comprehensively, assessing their aptitude from all angles.

• The format of the CAT paper pattern is a two-hour session that includes a mix of multiple-choice and non-multiple-choice questions, totalling 66, mirroring the structure from the CAT entrance exam 2024.
• Despite the CAT's historical tendency to change, it is expected to maintain the same format this year.

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The CAT paper pattern is divided into three main sections:

• Quantitative Aptitude (QA)
• Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR)
• Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)

CAT Exam Sections	Number of Questions	Weightage (Marks)
Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC)	24	72
Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR)	20	60
Quantitative Aptitude (QA)	22	66

Check Here | Direct Link to Download CAT 2024 Admit Card

Tips to Reduce the Negative Marking in CAT Exam 2024

TIP 1: Master the art of reading questions correctly

• One of the most crucial test-taking skills is avoiding the common pitfall of not reading the questions carefully.
• By mastering this, you control your test and enhance your question comprehension.

TIP 2: Avoid making flukes

• If you can eliminate one or two options in a type of question, the chances of guessing the correct answer increase.
• However, if you're unsure, it's always better to skip the question.

Download Free DILR Sample Questions for CAT Exam

TIP 3: Identify your strengths and weaknesses

• Knowing your weaknesses beforehand is always good so that when you see the type of question from the topic you are weak at, you know whether to risk attempting it or skipping it.

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TIP 4: Handle your rough sheets properly

• When you are given the rough sheets to do your calculations and rough work, handle them carefully and write down anything in them.
• This will save you time in finding the right answer and choosing the wrong option.

TIP 5: Always attempt easy questions first

• It's always wise and intelligent to start with the easy questions first and then give time to the questions, which can consume time and be challenging to solve.

TIP 6: Steer clear of last-minute haste

• Resist the urge to rush through the questions in the final minutes. This can lead to increased negative marking and unnecessary stress.
• By avoiding this, you maintain a calm and controlled approach to your test, enhancing your overall performance.

Learn More | What are the Benefits of CAT Exam for MBA

Conclusion

Now that you have learnt about negative marking in the CAT exam and how to reduce it, you must focus on your strengths and weaknesses and improve your accuracy and speed. Always remember that every mark counts and careful planning can significantly affect your overall score.

Check| CAT Exam Previous Year Papers