To effectively tackle negative marking in the Preliminary Exam, candidates should focus on accuracy over speed. Employing strategies such as careful reading of questions, understanding the requirement, and eliminating obviously incorrect answers can increase the chances of selecting the correct option. Prioritizing questions based on confidence levels can help manage time effectively. Consistent practice with mock tests under timed conditions trains candidates to make quick yet thoughtful decisions. Reviewing performance in mock tests also helps in identifying patterns of mistakes, allowing for targeted improvement in weaker areas.