The Bihar Police SI (Sub-Inspector) Preliminary exam is a high-stakes test where your OMR sheet is your only identity. Even with 100% preparation, a simple clerical error in filling out the bubbles can lead to your result being “Rejected” or “Pending.”

With the January 21, 2026 exam just around the corner, make sure you memorize these 5 rules to ensure your OMR sheet is scanned correctly.

1. Incorrect Roll Number & Booklet Series Encoding

This is the #1 reason for disqualification. The BPSSC computer scanner reads the bubbles, not the numbers you write in the boxes.

• The Error: Darkening “Circle 5” when your roll number digit is “6.”
• The Fix: Always read the digit, find the corresponding bubble in that vertical column, and place a small dot first. Once you are sure, darken it completely.
• Warning: If you mis-fill your Question Booklet Series (A, B, C, or D), your entire paper will be checked against the wrong answer key!

2. Using Gel Pens or “Tick” Marks

BPSSC rules are very strict about the stationery used.

• The Error: Using a Gel pen, ink pen, or pencil. Gel ink can smudge or bleed through the paper, ruining the timing tracks on the back.
• The Fix: Use only a Black or Blue Ballpoint Pen.
• The Marking: Do not use ticks ($\checkmark$) or crosses ($\times$). The scanner only recognizes a fully darkened circle.

3. Skipping the Handwriting Paragraph (Hindi/English)

On the Bihar SI OMR sheet, there is a box for “Writing of Declaration.”

• The Error: Leaving this blank or only writing it in one language.
• The Fix: You must copy the text provided on the question paper in both Hindi and English in your natural handwriting. This is used for forensic verification during the Physical Test (PET) and Mains stage.

4. Using Whitener, Blades, or Erasers

Made a mistake? Do not try to fix it.

• The Error: Scratching the OMR paper with a blade or using “White-out” fluid to change an answer.
• The Result: The OMR scanner uses light reflection. Any change in paper thickness or chemical residue from whitener will cause the machine to flag your sheet as “Invalid.” ## 5. Rough Work on the OMR SheetThe margins of an OMR sheet contain “Timing Tracks” (small black rectangles).
• The Error: Doing math calculations or rough sketches on the sides of the OMR.
• The Fix: Use the last page of your Question Booklet for all rough work. Any stray marks on the OMR can lead to an “Error” during the scanning process.

📊 Quick Summary for Exam Day

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I change my answer once bubbled?

No. Once a bubble is darkened with a ballpoint pen, it cannot be changed. Using whitener will disqualify the paper.

Q2: What if I forget to sign the OMR sheet?

An unsigned OMR sheet is usually rejected by the BPSSC as it is considered “unauthenticated.” Always check for the Invigilator’s signature as well.

Yes. Start from the edges of the circle and move inward. This prevents the ink from going outside the boundary.

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Puneet Singh

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