Start with the right HAT answer key.
A correct comparison starts with the correct key. Match the exact examination and booklet details before comparing any answers.
Where the keys come from
HEC publishes answer-key announcements with links to PDF documents. BrightStep's catalogue is built from official HEC publications, with the source document retained for checking. Candidates do not need to type a key themselves.
The public catalogue is a validated snapshot. The site operator fetches official documents, checks the examination metadata and answer structure, and publishes the accepted keys. It is not a live HEC API and does not claim complete historical coverage. Missing, conflicting or revised documents need review before a new version is published.
Match date, programme, category and colour
Do not choose a key because only its year or colour matches. For example, the official 30 August 2026 HAT-MS announcement separates documents by category and booklet colour. Available combinations depend on the examination.
Category II is not a label for the second test of the year. Use the date and programme printed on your examination documents, then choose the corresponding category and booklet colour.
What if a key is missing or changes?
If an exact key is not available in the catalogue, wait for the matching official publication or check HEC directly. Another date's key is not a substitute. Revised documents should be treated as new versions so a prior estimate can be understood against the key used at that time.
Check a sheet, then inspect the comparison
Once you have selected the matching key, upload your marked copy. Review doubtful marks and open individual questions to see the detected answer alongside the published answer. The output is an independent estimate, not a replacement for an official result.
Sources and further reading
Reviewed 31 October 2026. Examination-specific HEC instructions and publications take precedence.
Check your answer sheet