# What is marks normalisation?

> Marks normalisation puts results from different shifts of one exam on a common footing, often by percentile. Here's why it's used and how it works.

Learn · Glossary

Marks normalisation is adjusting or ranking results from different sittings of the same exam, such as several shifts, so a candidate isn't helped or hurt by sitting an easier or harder paper.

- Page: https://sparkmentis.ai/learn/marks-normalisation

## How it's done

- **Percentile within shift.** Each candidate is ranked against others in the same shift.
- **Equating.** Statistical methods map scores between versions of a test.

## Why it matters

Large entrance exams often run in many shifts. Without normalisation, the luck of the timetable decides places.

## Questions

**Does normalisation change my marks?**

Usually your raw marks stay; your rank or percentile is worked out from them.

**Is it needed for one shift?**

No. With a single shift, raw marks compare directly.

## Related

- [Multi-shift results](https://sparkmentis.ai/features/multi-shift-exam-results.md): SparkExam
- [SparK-12: Exam bodies and sittings](https://app.sparkmentis.ai/features/exam-bodies): Centres, candidates, sealed papers

## Book a demo

Email info@sparkmentis.ai (subject "SparkMentis demo request") with your organization, your role and the products you're interested in.