1. Introduction

Once the exam is over, most candidates experience a strange mix of relief and restlessness. Relief because the long preparation phase has ended, and restlessness because the result is still far away. The release of the answer key is the first moment where uncertainty starts reducing - but only if it is used correctly.

For the DDA Group A, B, C recruitment, the answer key phase is not just about checking “right or wrong”. It is about understanding where you stand realistically, without panic, overconfidence, or unnecessary expenditure on objections.

This article is written to help you think clearly, not emotionally, during this stage.

2. Answer Key Overview

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has released the provisional answer key for Group A, B, and C posts on 05 January 2026.

Key points you should note:

  • This is not the final answer key
  • It is released post-wise and shift-wise
  • It allows candidates to:
    • Estimate probable score
    • Raise objections (if genuinely required)

The result date is not available yet, and any marks calculated now are only indicative, not final.

3. How to Check and Use the Answer Key Properly

Most mistakes happen at this step.

Correct way to use the answer key:

  1. Log in only through the official DDA recruitment portal
  2. Select your correct post, shift, and question paper set
  3. Match each response carefully - do not rely on memory alone
  4. Keep a rough sheet for score calculation

Common mistakes candidates make:

  • Checking answers from wrong shift/set
  • Relying on coaching PDFs or WhatsApp keys
  • Ignoring negative marking
  • Rechecking repeatedly, causing anxiety

👉 Check once, calculate calmly, then stop.

4. How to Calculate Expected Score (Without Fooling Yourself)

Before calculating, confirm the marking scheme from the official notification or answer key notice. If the marking scheme is not mentioned in the answer key, assume only what was clearly stated earlier - do not guess.

A simple approach:

  • +Marks for every correct answer
  • −Negative marks for every wrong answer (if applicable)
  • Unattempted questions = 0

⚠️ Important reality check: Your raw score is not your final merit score. Final results may involve:

  • Normalisation (if multiple shifts)
  • Category-wise cut-offs
  • Post-wise competition levels

5. Cut-Off Expectations: A Reality Check

At this stage, no official cut-off is available.

Cut-offs depend on:

  • Total vacancies (1732 posts, but spread across many posts)
  • Difficulty level of each shift
  • Number of candidates per post
  • Category-wise distribution

🔴 Avoid these traps:

  • “Expected cut-off” videos with exact numbers
  • Telegram claims like “selection confirmed above X marks”
  • Comparing your marks with a different post

Each post and group has its own competition level.

6. Objection Process - Who Should Raise It & Who Shouldn’t

Raising an objection is a serious step, not an emotional reaction.

You SHOULD raise an objection if:

  • You have clear documentary proof
  • The answer contradicts standard textbooks, Acts, or official references
  • The question itself is technically incorrect

You SHOULD NOT raise an objection if:

  • You feel “most students are saying something else”
  • Your coaching teacher disagrees without written proof
  • You are hoping for bonus marks without solid logic

💰 Cost vs Benefit: Objection fees are usually non-refundable unless accepted. Random objections often lead to financial loss and stress.

7. What to Do After the Answer Key

If your score is comfortably high

  • Start preparing for next stage (skill test/interview/document verification)
  • Keep documents ready
  • Stay grounded - nothing is final yet

If your score is borderline

  • Prepare mentally for both outcomes
  • Continue light preparation
  • Avoid compulsive checking of cut-off predictions

If your score is low

  • Accept it calmly - one exam does not define your future
  • Analyse weak areas, not just wrong answers
  • Redirect focus to upcoming exams using this experience

8. Timeline Ahead - What Comes Next

Based on standard DDA recruitment flow:

  1. Objection window closes
  2. Final answer key released
  3. Result declaration (date not available yet)
  4. Next stage:
    • Skill Test / Interview (post-wise)
    • Document Verification
    • Medical Examination

📌 Monitor only the official DDA website for updates.

9. Pros & Cons of the Answer Key Phase

Pros

  • Transparency in evaluation
  • Early self-assessment
  • Opportunity to correct genuine errors

Cons

  • Over-analysis and stress
  • False hope from unofficial predictions
  • Wasted money on weak objections

🧠 Balanced mindset matters more than marks right now.

10. Candidate Checklist

  • ✅ Application number / login details
  • ✅ Correct question paper set
  • ✅ Official marking scheme
  • ✅ Authentic reference material (for objections)
  • ✅ Objection deadline (if applicable)

11. Conclusion

The answer key is a tool, not a verdict. Use it to understand, not to torment yourself.

Whether your score feels good, average, or disappointing - the right response is clarity + patience + consistency. Many successful candidates did not clear every exam they wrote; they learned how to respond after each one.

Stay disciplined. Stay realistic. Keep moving forward.

12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is the DDA Group A, B, C answer key final? No. It is provisional. A final answer key will be released after objections are reviewed.

Q2. Can my score change after the final answer key? Yes. If any answers are corrected or bonus marks are awarded, scores may change.

Q3. When will the DDA result be declared? The result date is not available yet. Candidates should regularly check the official website.

Q4. Should I start preparing for the next stage now? If your score is reasonably strong, yes - but without neglecting other exams.

Q5. Is it safe to trust third-party websites or YouTube cut-offs? Use them only for general discussion, never for final decisions.