Is there negative marking in SBI Clerk?

Yes. The SBI notification states that there will be negative marks for wrong answers in the objective tests: 1/4th of the marks assigned to the question is deducted for each wrong answer. This applies to both Prelims and Mains. Questions you leave unanswered carry no penalty.

How it works in numbers

Example: in Prelims you attempt 70 questions and get 60 right and 10 wrong. Your score is 60 - (10 x 0.25) = 57.5.

In Mains, the Reasoning & Computer Aptitude section has 50 questions for 60 marks, so questions there are worth more than one mark on average. The deduction is one-fourth of whatever that question is worth.

When is guessing worth it?

With five options and a quarter-mark penalty, a completely blind guess has an expected value of zero. So:

• Blind guesses: no gain on average, and they add risk. Avoid them.
• Eliminated two or three options: the odds turn in your favour. An educated guess is reasonable.
• Answer worked out but unsure of a calculation step: usually worth marking.

Accuracy targets

Most toppers aim for accuracy above 85-90% in Prelims. Ten wrong answers cost you 2.5 marks, which in a competitive state can be many ranks. Practising with mocks and checking your accuracy section by section is the best way to find your safe attempt level.

Clearing a response

If you change your mind, use the Clear Response button. A question is treated as unanswered only when no option is selected.