RAS Prelims Answer Key 2018: Official + Coaching Institute Keys

Last Updated: January 2024 | Topic: RAS Exam 2018

Quick Overview: The RAS Prelims Answer Key 2018 is an essential document for candidates who appeared for the Rajasthan Administrative Services preliminary examination. This comprehensive guide covers official RPSC answer keys, coaching institute resources, and the complete process for calculating your expected score and filing objections.

1. Understanding the RAS Prelims Answer Key Release Process

The Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) follows a structured timeline for releasing the RAS prelims answer key 2018. Understanding this process helps candidates plan their preparation and objection strategy effectively.

Typically, the RPSC releases the answer key in two stages:

Preliminary Answer Key: Released within 5-7 days after the examination. This is a provisional key subject to modifications.
Final Answer Key: Released after considering objections and representations from candidates. This is the final version used for merit list preparation.

The release of the RAS prelims answer key 2018 was accompanied by an official notification specifying the exact timeline for filing objections. Candidates were given a specific window (usually 5-7 days) during which they could submit their grievances against incorrect answers.

2. How to Download Official RAS Prelims Answer Key 2018 – Step-by-Step Guide

Downloading the official answer key from RPSC is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to access the authentic document:

Step 1: Visit the Official RPSC Website

Navigate to the official Rajasthan Public Service Commission website (rpsc.rajasthan.gov.in). Bookmark this site for future reference as all official notifications appear here first.

Step 2: Locate the Notifications Section

On the homepage, look for the "Notifications" or "Latest Updates" section. The RAS prelims answer key 2018 will be announced here with a direct download link.

Step 3: Click on the Answer Key Link

Search for the specific notification mentioning "RAS 2018 Answer Key" or similar terminology. Click on the provided PDF link to download the official document.

Step 4: Save and Print

Save the PDF to your computer and print a copy. Having a physical copy makes it easier to compare with your question paper and track your responses.

Step 5: Verify Authenticity

Ensure the downloaded document carries the RPSC official seal and logo. Cross-check the document number and release date mentioned on the official website.

3. RAS Prelims Answer Key 2018 from Major Coaching Institutes

Besides the official RAS prelims answer key 2018, several reputed coaching institutes release their own answer keys immediately after the examination. These are valuable for quick verification and comparative analysis.

Major Coaching Institute Sources:

            Coaching Institute
            Typical Availability
            Format
            Reliability
        
        
            **Drishti IAS**
            Same day / Next day
            PDF with detailed explanations
            High
        
        
            **Vajiram and Ravi**
            Next day
            PDF and online portal
            High
        
        
            **Insights IAS**
            Same day / Next day
            PDF with video solutions
            High
        
        
            **Vision IAS**
            Next day
            PDF format
            High
        
        
            **Shankar IAS Academy**
            Within 24 hours
            PDF with analysis
            Medium-High

Important Note: While coaching institute answer keys are helpful for quick reference, always rely on the official RPSC RAS prelims answer key 2018 for accurate scoring and merit list purposes. Coaching institutes occasionally have differences in their keys, which may be rectified in the official key.

4. Filing Objections and Representation Against Answer Key

If you believe there's an error in the official RAS prelims answer key 2018, you have the right to file an objection with RPSC.

Objection Process and Timeline:

Objection Window: Usually 5-7 days from the date of answer key release
Method: Online submission through the official RPSC portal
Requirements: Question number, your suggested answer, supporting references (books/documents), and reasoning
Fee: Typically ₹100 per objection (non-refundable even if objection is valid)

Steps to File an Objection:

Log in to your RPSC candidate portal using your registration credentials
Navigate to the "Submit Objection" section
Select the exam (RAS 2018) and provide the question number
Clearly state the official answer and your suggested answer
Provide detailed reasoning with reference materials
Attach supporting documents (screenshots of textbooks, citations)
Pay the objection fee online
Submit and save the confirmation receipt

Note: Objections must be submitted within the specified timeframe. Late objections are not entertained regardless of validity.

5. How to Calculate Your Expected Score Using the Answer Key

Once you have the official RAS prelims answer key 2018, calculating your expected score is simple but requires accuracy.

RAS 2018 Prelims Marking Scheme:

Total Questions: 150
Total Marks: 300
Marks per Question: 2 marks
Negative Marking: 0.66 marks (1/3 of marks) deducted for each wrong answer

Calculation Method:

Formula: Expected Score = (Correct Answers × 2) - (Wrong Answers × 0.66)

Example:

If you answered 120 questions correctly
And 20 questions incorrectly
And left 10 unanswered
Expected Score = (120 × 2) - (20 × 0.66) = 240 - 13.2 = 226.8 marks

To calculate your score accurately, carefully match your marked answers with the official RAS prelims answer key 2018. Use a spreadsheet to track each question's status (correct, wrong, or unmarked).

6. What To Do After Checking Your Score

After calculating your expected score from the RAS prelims answer key 2018, your next steps depend on your performance and aspirations.

If Your Score is Above the Cut-off:

Congratulations! Start preparing for the RAS Main examination
Download the RAS Prelims Cut-off 2018 to verify your qualification status
Begin collecting study materials for the main exam syllabus
Focus on writing skills and answer presentation
Practice previous year's mains papers

If Your Score is Below the Cut-off:

Analyze your weak areas using the answer key
Identify topics where you lost maximum marks
Create a focused revision plan for the next attempt
Consider enrolling in a coaching institute for structured guidance
Subscribe to current affairs resources for better preparation

If You're Close to the Cut-off:

File objections against answers you strongly believe are incorrect
Hope for favorable judgment that might push your score above the cut-off
Meanwhile, don't waste time and start mains preparation
Check the official cut-off announcement regularly

Pro Tips: Use the answer key not just for scoring but also for learning. Understand why you got a question wrong—was it conceptual clarity, reading comprehension, or careless mistake? This analysis is crucial for improvement in future attempts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: When was the RAS Prelims Answer Key 2018 released?

The preliminary answer key was typically released within a week of the examination, followed by the final answer key after considering objections.

Q2: Is the coaching institute's answer key reliable?

Coaching institute answer keys are generally reliable but may occasionally differ from the official RPSC key. Always refer to the official answer key for final verification.

Q3: Can I challenge the answer key?

Yes, you can file an objection with proper documentation and reasoning within the specified timeline. However, frivolous objections may result in penalty.

Q4: Is negative marking applicable in RAS Prelims?

Yes, 0.66 marks (1/3 of marks) are deducted for each incorrect answer in the RAS 2018 prelims examination.

Conclusion

The RAS prelims answer key 2018 is your gateway to understanding your performance and planning the next phase of your preparation. Download the official RPSC answer key, cross-verify with coaching