CUET 2026 Strategy: How to Avoid Negative Marking, Score 180+

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• Updated on 20 Mar, 2026, 4:34 PM, by Ishita Tanwar

The Common University Entrance Test 2026 will be held between May 11 and May 31 in CBT mode, where negative marking can significantly affect scores. With +5 marks for correct answers and –1 for incorrect ones, experts recommend focusing on accuracy rather than attempting all questions.

With the Common University Entrance Test 2026 scheduled between May 11 and May 31, candidates are now focusing on improving accuracy to maximise scores. The National Testing Agency conducts the exam in CBT mode, where negative marking plays a crucial role in determining rank and percentile. Experts suggest that avoiding unnecessary attempts can significantly improve the chances of securing a score above 180+ in CUET UG.

CUET 2026 Marking Scheme Explained

Understanding the marking scheme is essential before attempting the paper:

Correct Answer: +5 marks
Incorrect Answer: –1 mark
Unattempted Question: 0 marks

Even a few wrong attempts can reduce the overall score, especially in a highly competitive exam.

Why CUET 2026 Avoiding Negative Marking Matters?

In the Common University Entrance Test, small differences in marks can impact admission chances. Key reasons include:

Cut-offs remain closely packed across top universities
A loss of 5–10 marks can affect college allocation
Accuracy plays a bigger role than total attempts

CUET 2026: Key Strategies to Minimise Negative Marking

Candidates preparing for CUET UG 2026 can follow these proven strategies:

Focus on Syllabus and NCERT

Preparation should be aligned with the official syllabus. Most questions are based on Class 12 NCERT concepts, making clarity more important than covering extra topics.

Avoid Blind Guessing

Random guessing often leads to negative marking. If a candidate is unable to eliminate at least two options, skipping the question is considered a safer choice.

Use Option Elimination Technique

Eliminating incorrect options improves accuracy. This method is highly effective in subjects like English, General Test, and Social Sciences.

Attempt Smart, Not Maximum

Attempting all questions is not always beneficial. Experts recommend attempting 70–85% of questions with high accuracy instead of over-attempting.

Manage Time Efficiently

With 50 questions in 60 minutes, time management becomes critical:

Attempt easy questions first
Mark doubtful questions for review
Use remaining time for revision

Read Questions Carefully

Common mistakes occur due to misreading:

Words like “not”, “incorrect”, “except”
Units, values, and conditions

Careful reading can prevent avoidable errors.

When to Skip a CUET UG 2026 Question?

Skipping can be a smart decision in the following cases:

Concept is unclear
Unable to eliminate options
Spending more than two minutes on one question
Confusion between multiple options

CUET UG 2026 Mock Tests Key to Improving Accuracy

Regular mock tests help in identifying weak areas and reducing guessing habits. They also improve decision-making skills under exam pressure, which is crucial for scoring high.

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