1. Introduction

Once the exam is over, the mind rarely rests. Most candidates replay questions, doubt their answers, and swing between hope and anxiety. The release of an answer key is the first official checkpoint after all that effort-and it naturally feels decisive.

But here is the truth many candidates miss: the answer key is a tool, not a verdict. Used correctly, it helps you assess your performance and plan your next steps calmly. Used incorrectly, it creates unnecessary panic or false confidence. This phase is crucial not because it declares results, but because it allows transparency and correction.

The Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC) has now released the provisional answer key for the Technical Assistant, Sub Inspector, and other posts examination conducted for 96 vacancies. Let’s break down what this really means for you.

2. Answer Key Overview

  • Exam Authority: Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC)
  • Posts Covered: Technical Assistant, Sub Inspector, and Other Posts
  • Total Vacancies: 96
  • Answer Key Type: Provisional
  • Release Date: 28 January 2026

A provisional answer key means:

  • It is not final
  • NPSC is inviting candidates to point out genuine errors
  • The commission will review objections before declaring the final key

This step exists to improve fairness-not to declare pass or fail.

3. How to Check and Use the Answer Key Properly

Correct Way to Use It

  1. Download the official PDF only from the NPSC website.
  2. Match question numbers carefully with your question paper set.
  3. Check answers in a calm, single sitting-avoid repeated re-checking.
  4. Mark answers as:
    • Confidently correct
    • Clearly wrong
    • Doubtful / debatable

Common Mistakes Candidates Make

  • Checking answers in a group and getting influenced by others’ opinions
  • Ignoring question set or series mismatch
  • Assuming unofficial YouTube solutions are more accurate than the official key
  • Rechecking the same question repeatedly, increasing anxiety without new insight

Remember: clarity matters more than speed at this stage.

4. How to Calculate Expected Score

Use the official marking scheme only. As of now, exact marks per question and negative marking details are not explicitly mentioned in the available source. Candidates should refer to their exam notification or instructions provided during the exam.

General approach:


Expected Score = (Correct Answers × Marks per Question) - (Wrong Answers × Negative Marks)

Important Realities

  • If negative marking exists, be conservative while estimating.
  • Leave doubtful questions out initially; calculate two scenarios (best-case and worst-case).
  • Your raw score is not your final result. Normalization, category cut-offs, and merit ranking all come later.

Treat this as an estimate-not a conclusion.

5. Cut-Off Expectations: A Reality Check

Cut-offs are influenced by:

  • Difficulty level of the paper
  • Number of candidates appeared
  • Vacancy distribution across categories
  • Overall performance of the candidate pool

At this stage:

  • Official cut-off data is not available yet
  • Previous trends (if any) should be viewed only as rough context, not prediction

Avoid social media claims like “safe score” or “confirmed cut-off”. These are guesses, not facts.

6. Objection Process - Who Should Raise It & Who Shouldn’t

You Should Raise an Objection If:

  • The official answer is factually incorrect
  • You can support your claim with standard textbooks, official rules, or government sources
  • The question has a clear, objective error, not an interpretation issue

You Should NOT Raise an Objection If:

  • Your doubt is based on memory or coaching notes alone
  • The question is conceptual or subjective
  • You are emotionally reacting to a lost mark

Cost vs Benefit

  • Objection fees (exact amount not available yet) are usually non-refundable
  • Raising weak objections only wastes money and time
  • Strong, evidence-backed objections genuinely help everyone

7. What to Do After the Answer Key

If Your Score Is High

  • Stay grounded
  • Start light preparation for the next stage (if applicable)
  • Do not assume selection-wait for the final key and result

If Your Score Is Borderline

  • Track official updates closely
  • Avoid burnout-maintain balanced preparation
  • Keep backup exams or plans active

If Your Score Is Low

  • Accept the outcome honestly
  • Identify weak areas while the exam is fresh
  • Channel energy into upcoming opportunities instead of dwelling on this one

One exam never defines your capability.

8. Timeline Ahead - What Comes Next

Based on standard NPSC processes:

  1. Objection window (dates to be announced officially)
  2. Review of objections by the commission
  3. Final answer key
  4. Result declaration
  5. Next stage of selection (if applicable)

Candidates should rely only on the official NPSC website for updates.

9. Pros & Cons of the Answer Key Phase

Pros

  • Transparency in evaluation
  • Opportunity to correct genuine errors
  • Builds trust in the recruitment process

Cons

  • Increases anxiety if overanalyzed
  • Encourages unnecessary comparison
  • Leads to premature conclusions

Patience is a competitive advantage at this stage.

10. Candidate Checklist

  • Downloaded official answer key PDF
  • Original question paper and response recall
  • Standard references (for objections, if any)
  • Login credentials ready
  • Objection deadline tracked (not available yet-monitor official site)

11. Conclusion

The answer key phase is not about celebration or disappointment-it is about assessment and awareness. Use it to understand where you stand, not to judge your worth. Strong candidates think long-term, act rationally, and protect their mental balance.

Let the process unfold. You have done your part.

12. FAQs

Is this the final answer key?
No. This is a provisional answer key.

Can marks change after objections?
Yes, if objections are accepted, the final key may differ.

Is it compulsory to raise objections if I disagree?
No. Only raise objections when you have solid proof.

When will the result be declared?
Not available yet. Candidates should monitor the official NPSC website.

Should I trust coaching institute answer keys?
They can help with understanding, but only the official NPSC key has authority.