In the context of the 2026 exam, bonus points are generally considered better than deductions. Bonus points can significantly enhance a student's overall score, potentially leading to a higher grade or better performance ranking. On the other hand, deductions can directly lower a student's score, which may have a more immediate negative impact on their results.

Data from past exams and educational research support this perspective. For instance, a study by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) found that students who received bonus points on their exams had a higher average score than those who faced deductions. Additionally, the American Educational Research Association (AERA) reported that bonus points can motivate students to perform better, as they offer a tangible reward for achieving certain goals or exceeding expectations.

The rationale behind this preference lies in the psychological and motivational aspects of bonus points versus deductions. Bonus points act as positive reinforcement, encouraging students to strive for excellence and pushing them to achieve beyond the minimum requirements. This approach can foster a growth mindset, where students see challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement. In contrast, deductions can create a negative mindset, where students may feel discouraged or defeated, leading to a decrease in their overall performance.

Moreover, bonus points can be strategically allocated to address specific areas of weakness or to reward students for demonstrating particular skills or knowledge. This targeted approach can help students focus on areas that need improvement, leading to more comprehensive learning outcomes. Deductions, on the other hand, are often applied uniformly, which may not address individual learning needs or strengths.

In conclusion, bonus points are generally considered better than deductions in the 2026 exam. They provide positive reinforcement, motivate students to perform better, and can be strategically allocated to address individual learning needs. Data from educational research supports this perspective, highlighting the benefits of bonus points in fostering a growth mindset and enhancing overall academic performance.