Howdy Bit Shifters -
'At this point', I don't think you'd see a negative shifting question on the exam, but the exam is not cast in stone. I think this is a valid discussion because it 'might' come up in an exam revision.
There are certain topics that seem way out of scope, based on knowing some of the exam maker's philosophies, but I could imagine this one sneaking in.
An example of the type of question that I don't think is likely to sneak in, is one where a detailed knowledge of precedence is required... the
test makers all seem to be pretty strong advocates of parentheses.
CAUTION: All of this is speculation on my part - maybe safe bets, but definitely NOT anything I'd bet my life on. (Although I'll take $5 bets
).