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Negative marking is one of the most decisive factors of JEE Main. Many students work hard, are well aware of the syllabus, but lose precious marks because of careless mistakes and blind guesswork. With JEE Main 2026 Session 2 around the corner, it is important to know the negative marking rules, exam pattern, and marking scheme to work on improving the accuracy and percentile.
This blog explains negative marking in JEE Main 2026 Session 2 in a simple, structured, and exam-oriented way so that aspirants can plan their strategy of attempting the exam smartly and not lose marks unnecessarily.
What Is Negative Marking in JEE Main 2026?
Meaning of Negative Marking in JEE Main
Negative marking refers to the deduction of marks in the event of an incorrect answer by the candidate to a question. In JEE Main, for some types of questions, one mark is deducted for each wrong answer. This system makes sure that students try questions from knowledge and not guesswork.
In simple words, a wrong answer not only fetches you zero marks but also lowers your total score.
Why Does NTA Use Negative Marking?
The reason why the National Testing Agency (NTA) uses negative marking in two primary reasons:
- To minimize guesswork: Negative marking discourages random attempts without proper understanding.
- To test conceptual clarity: It ensures that the students with good fundamentals and accuracy are rewarded.
Is There Negative Marking in JEE Main 2026 Session 2?
Yes, negative marking is applicable in JEE Main 2026 Session 2, but it depends on the type of question attempted.
Official NTA Rules on Negative Marking
As per the latest JEE Main 2026 exam pattern, the examination paper has two parts in every subject:
- Section A (MCQs) - Negative marking applicable
- Section B (Numerical Value Questions) - No negative marking
This rule is the same throughout Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Has Negative Marking Changed From Previous Years?
There is no major change as far as negative marking rules are concerned as compared to previous years.
- JEE Main 2024: - 1 for incorrect MCQs, no negative marking in numerical questions
- JEE Main 2025: Similar marking pattern
- JEE Main 2026: Follows the same structure
Thus, students who are aware of the recent patterns of the exam will not face any surprises.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Pattern (Session 2)
Understanding the exam pattern is very important before analysing negative marking in detail.
Section-wise Paper Structure
Section A – MCQs
• 20 questions per subject
• Every single question has four options
• Only one correct answer
•Negative marking applicable
Section B - Numerical Value Questions
• 10 questions per subject
• Attempt any 5 questions
• Answers are in the form of numerical values
• No negative marking
Subject-Wise Distribution
Physics Marking Pattern
- Concept-based and numerical-heavy
- MCQs carry negative marking
- Numerical questions are more safe to attempt
Chemistry Marking Pattern
- Mix of theoretical and numerical questions
- NCERT-based MCQs Accuracy required
- Numerical questions often score
Maths Marking Pattern
- Calculation-intensive MCQs
- High risk of silly mistakes
- Numerical questions that are preferred by many toppers
JEE Main 2026 Marking Scheme Explained
The JEE Main marking scheme is uniform for all three subjects.
Marks for Correct Answers
MCQs: +4 Marks per correct answer
Numerical questions: +4 Marks for each correct answer
Negative Marks For Incorrect Answers
MCQs Negative Marking Rules
• −1 mark for every incorrect MCQ
• No partial marking
Multiple wrong attempts can significantly reduce the score.
Is There Negative Marking In Numerical Questions?
• No negative marking
• Wrong answers are awarded 0 marks
• Only unattempted questions also get 0 marks
Common Mistakes Committed by Students due to Negative Marking
Blind Guessing in MCQs
Many students don't try MCQs by eliminating the options, thus wasting negative marks.
Over-Attempting Numerical Questions
Some students rush through number questions without proper calculation and waste valuable time.
Misreading Multiple Correct Options
Misunderstanding of question statements or calculation errors lead to unnecessary negative marking.
Time Management to Reduce Errors
- Schedule specific periods of time for each subject
- Avoid spending too much time on one question
- Reserve time for revision
Role of Books and Practice Material in Reduction of Negative Marking
Preparation resources play a big role in minimizing errors.
- The Right JEE Main Books for building strong conceptual clarity
- Regular practice with JEE Main Mock Test Papers leads to better accuracy and time management
- Solving JEE Main Previous Year Solved Papers helps to understand real exam level traps and common mistakes
- Students who constantly analyze their mock tests reduce negative marking drastically over the years.
Read More: When Will JEE Main 2026 Session 2 Registration Start?
Accuracy vs Attempt Ratio - What Works best?
A candidate who is trying 55-60 questions with a high accuracy score often scores better than a candidate who is trying 70+ questions with a poor accuracy score.
Negative Marking Strategy Average vs Toppers
Strategy for Average Scorers
- Concentrate on numerical questions
- Attempt MCQs only if sure
- Strengthen Chemistry And Easy Physics Chapters
Strategy for High Scorers (99+ Percentile Aspirants)
- Take calculated risks in MCQs
- Maximize attempts while maintaining accuracy
- Regular mock test analysis so that you can reduce mistakes
Key Takeaways on Negative Marking in JEE Main 2026 Session 2
-
Negative marking applies only to MCQs
-
Numerical questions are safer but limited
-
Accuracy is more important than attempts
-
Avoid blind guessing
-
Practice with mock tests and previous year papers
Understanding the negative marking rules, exam pattern, and marking scheme can help you make smarter decisions during the exam. With the right strategy, you can minimize score loss and maximize your JEE Main 2026 Session 2 performance.
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