The implications of negative marking in the UPSC Prelims can be significant for candidates. It encourages test-takers to make educated guesses rather than attempting to answer every question without confidence. This system penalizes inaccuracies, and thus, candidates must prepare thoroughly to minimize incorrect responses. As a result, a well-planned and informed approach to answering questions is essential. Negative marking brings a strategic element to exam preparation, urging candidates to focus on understanding concepts deeply and prioritizing quality over quantity in their answers.