Can I get negative marks for marking more than one option in multiple-choice questions of IIT JAM Chemistry?

Yes, you can get negative marks for marking more than one option in multiple-choice questions of IIT JAM Chemistry. The examination pattern of IIT JAM Chemistry includes negative marking for incorrect answers. Let's understand the details of negative marking in IIT JAM Chemistry:

1. Negative Marking Scheme:
In IIT JAM Chemistry, negative marking is implemented to discourage random guessing by the candidates. Each question carries either 1 or 2 marks, depending on the question's complexity. For every incorrect answer, a negative marking will be applied. The exact negative marking scheme may vary from year to year, but typically it is as follows:

- For 1-mark questions: 1/3rd mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
- For 2-mark questions: 2/3rd mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer.

2. Marking More Than One Option:
If you mark more than one option for a multiple-choice question in IIT JAM Chemistry, the following scenarios can occur:

- If the correct option is marked along with an incorrect option: In this case, since you have marked at least one incorrect option, you will be awarded negative marks as per the negative marking scheme mentioned above.

- If only incorrect options are marked: If you mark only incorrect options, you will receive negative marks for the question. The negative marks will be deducted as per the negative marking scheme.

- If no options are marked: If you leave a question unanswered, there will be no negative marking. However, you will also not receive any positive marks for that question.

3. Strategy to Avoid Negative Marking:
To avoid negative marking in IIT JAM Chemistry, it is crucial to have a well-planned approach while attempting the multiple-choice questions. Here are a few strategies that can help minimize negative marking:

- Thoroughly read the question and all the options before marking the answer.
- Eliminate the options that are clearly incorrect.
- Make an educated guess if you can eliminate some options but are unsure about the correct answer.
- If you are completely uncertain about the correct answer, it might be better to leave the question unanswered instead of risking negative marks.

Conclusion:
In IIT JAM Chemistry, negative marking is implemented to discourage random guessing. Therefore, it is important to carefully analyze the options before marking the answer. The negative marking scheme deducts 1/3rd or 2/3rd marks for each incorrect answer, depending on the question's weightage. Marking more than one option or marking only incorrect options will attract negative marks. By following a strategic approach and eliminating options, candidates can minimize the chances of negative marking and increase their overall score.