The CLAT 2026 exam is scheduled for December 7, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. As candidates prepare for this important day, one aspect that can directly impact their score is the correct filling of the OMR sheet. The Consortium of NLUs has strict guidelines for OMR sheet filling, and even minor errors can result in incorrect evaluation or negative marking. This article highlights the CLAT 2026 most common OMR sheet mistakes to avoid on December 7, 2025, ensuring a smooth and error-free exam experience.
CLAT 2026 OMR Sheet Guidelines
The CLAT 2026 OMR sheet is machine-scanned, and only responses filled according to official instructions will be accepted. Candidates must use a blue or black ballpoint pen to mark their answers. Gel pens, pencils, or markers are not allowed and may lead to scanning issues. Each question has four options (A, B, C, D), and candidates must darken the bubble corresponding to their chosen answer. The sheet is divided into sections for personal details and the answer marking area. Any deviation from these rules can result in penalties or disqualification of answers.
Common OMR Sheet Mistakes to Avoid in CLAT 2026
Below are the most frequent errors candidates make while filling out the CLAT 2026 OMR sheet. Avoiding these mistakes will help ensure accurate evaluation and maximize scores.
- Not Filling Bubbles Completely: Partially filled or lightly marked bubbles may not be detected by the scanning machine. Candidates must darken the bubbles fully, without leaving gaps or shading only a portion. Incomplete bubbles are treated as unmarked and do not fetch any marks.
- Multiple Markings for One Question: Marking more than one bubble for a single question will result in a penalty of -0.25 marks for that question. Only one bubble per question should be darkened. If a candidate wishes to change their answer, they must erase the previous mark completely and fill in the new one.
- Incorrect Alignment of Question Numbers: Always match the question number in the booklet with the corresponding number on the OMR sheet. Misaligned answers can lead to incorrect evaluation. Candidates should double-check the question number before marking each answer.
- Stray Marks or Extra Writing: Avoid making stray marks or writing anything outside the designated areas. Extra marks or notes can confuse the scanner and may invalidate the answer sheet. Keep the sheet clean and free from smudges or ink spills.
- Mishandling the OMR Sheet: Do not fold, tear, or tamper with the OMR sheet. Any physical damage can result in scanning errors. Handle the sheet with care throughout the exam.
- Skipping or Mislabeling Question Numbers: Ensure that every attempted question is marked correctly and that no question is skipped or mislabeled. Skipping questions or marking answers in the wrong row can lead to incorrect evaluation.
- Neglecting to Fill Personal Details: Candidates must fill in all personal details, including name, roll number, and photo, as per the instructions. Failure to do so can result in the disqualification of the answer sheet.
- Overlapping or Spilling Ink: Write neatly and avoid any ink spillage to prevent confusion or misinterpretation of answers. Overlapping or spilling ink can make the answer sheet unreadable.
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Expert Tips for OMR Sheet Filling For CLAT 2026
These expert tips for CLAT 2026 OMR sheet filling highlight using the correct pen, marking bubbles properly, avoiding stray marks, checking question numbers, and reviewing the sheet before submission.
- Use a blue or black ballpoint pen for marking answers.
- Double-check the question number before marking each answer.
- Darken bubbles fully and avoid partial shading.
- Do not make any stray marks or extra writing on the sheet.
- Keep the OMR sheet clean and handle it with care.
- Review the sheet before submission to ensure all answers are correctly marked.
Penalties for OMR Sheet Errors in CLAT 2026
The Consortium of NLUs has a strict penalty system for OMR sheet errors. Candidates who make multiple markings, misalign question numbers, or make stray marks will face negative marking or disqualification of answers. It is crucial to follow the official guidelines to avoid any penalties.
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Final Checklist Before Submitting the CLAT 2026 OMR Sheet
This final checklist for the CLAT 2026 OMR sheet ensures accuracy and safety by verifying personal details, checking fully darkened bubbles, avoiding stray marks, correcting misaligned responses, and handling the sheet carefully before submission.
- Verify all personal details are filled correctly.
- Ensure all attempted questions are marked with a single, fully darkened bubble.
- Check for any stray marks or extra writing.
- Review the sheet for misaligned or skipped question numbers.
- Handle the sheet with care and avoid any physical damage.
Key Takeaway
By avoiding common OMR sheet mistakes and following the official CLAT 2026 guidelines, candidates can ensure accurate evaluation and protect their scores on exam day. Careful marking, proper handling of the sheet, and a final review before submission help create a smooth, error-free exam experience.
