Learn how to reduce errors and avoid negative marking in JEE Main 2025 with these 7 proven strategies. From smart time management to practicing mock tests, these tips will help you perform with confidence.
JEE Main is one of the most competitive entrance exams in India, offering admission to prestigious institutes like IIITs, NITs, and qualifying eligibility for JEE Advanced. Among the key challenges of the exam is negative marking, which can significantly impact your final score if not tackled wisely. With the right strategy, however, you can reduce errors and maximize your marks.
The exam consists of 75 questions - 25 each in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics - totaling 300 marks. You earn 4 marks for each correct answer and lose 1 mark for every incorrect one. Unanswered questions carry no penalty, making it essential to answer carefully rather than guess.
Start with the questions you’re confident about. This not only helps you secure marks early on but also builds confidence. Avoid jumping into difficult questions at the beginning - they may consume valuable time and create stress.
Since there's negative marking, random guesses can lower your score. Only attempt a question if you’re reasonably sure of the answer. Eliminate incorrect options if possible to increase your chances.
Time management is crucial. Allocate time wisely to each section and avoid spending too much time on a single question. Practice with mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy.
Solving past year papers helps you identify common question patterns and important topics. Focus on frequently asked topics to strengthen your preparation.
Mock tests simulate real exam conditions. Take at least 7–8 full-length tests before the actual exam. Analyze your mistakes to avoid repeating them and track your progress.
Exam anxiety can lead to silly mistakes. Practice mindfulness or breathing techniques to stay calm and maintain focus throughout the test.
If time permits, recheck your answers. Look for calculation errors or misread questions. But avoid second-guessing yourself too much, as overthinking can introduce new mistakes.
By applying these strategies consistently, you can effectively reduce negative marking and boost your chances of securing a higher score in JEE Main 2025.
Train under real exam pressure. Practice with chapter-aligned JEE questions from recent years.
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