BPSC Revamps MCQ Format: Fifth Option ‘E’ for Not Attempted, Negative Marking for Blank Responses
The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) has introduced a significant change to its multiple-choice question (MCQ) examination pattern, a move designed to bring greater clarity and accountability to the evaluation process. The new rules, which will take effect in upcoming recruitment exams, alter how candidates must approach each question on the answer sheet.
Transition from Four Options to a Five-Option Structure
Previously, every MCQ in BPSC exams came with four possible answers: A, B, C, and D. Candidates were not obligated to select an answer, which led many to simply leave difficult or uncertain questions blank. This practice created inconsistencies in marking and made it harder to assess genuine candidate performance.
Under the revised framework, each question will now present five options: A, B, C, D, and E. The newly added fifth option, ‘E’, explicitly stands for “Not Attempted.” This means that if a candidate decides to skip a particular question, they must actively select option E to register their choice. The system removes any ambiguity about whether a question was intentionally left unanswered.
Mandatory Selection and the New Penalty Rule
One of the most critical aspects of this update is that answering or skipping a question is no longer a passive action. Candidates who wish to answer a question must choose one of the first four options (A through D). Those who prefer to leave a question must deliberately mark option E.
Failure to select any of the five options will result in a penalty. According to the official notification, a question left completely blank—without any option selected—will be treated as unanswered, and a deduction of one-third of a mark will be applied. This new negative marking rule is intended to discourage careless or random omissions and to ensure that every candidate follows the same procedural standards.
Key Points of the New Examination System
- BPSC has formally altered the answering mechanism for all MCQ-based tests.
- Every question will now feature five options: A, B, C, D, and E.
- Option E signifies “Not Attempted” and must be chosen to skip a question.
- A penalty of 1/3 mark per question will be imposed if a candidate fails to select any option.
- The updated format will be implemented in all forthcoming BPSC examinations.
Expected Impact on Fairness and Transparency
This procedural adjustment is expected to bring a higher level of precision to the scoring system. By requiring candidates to explicitly mark their intention—whether to answer or to skip—the commission aims to eliminate the gray areas that previously existed in the marking process. The new system is designed to make evaluations more uniform and impartial, ensuring that all candidates are judged under the same clear set of rules.
The commission has advised all aspirants to familiarize themselves with the new pattern before their next exam. Preparation strategies should now include practice with the five-option format, and candidates must remember to either select a valid answer or mark option E to avoid losing marks. Following these instructions carefully during the exam will be essential to avoid unnecessary deductions.
This change reflects BPSC’s broader effort to modernize its testing procedures and uphold the integrity of the recruitment process. As the new system rolls out, candidates are encouraged to stay updated with official guidelines and adapt their approach accordingly.
