The Class 10 board exam conducted by CBSE is an important stepping stone that begins the academic journey of students. Scoring above 95% might sound difficult, but you can reach that goal if you strategize your overall pattern and put in consistent efforts.
Here are five tried and tested tips that will help you succeed in these exams.
1. Understand the Exam Pattern, and Identify Syllabus.
Understanding the exam pattern comes first. The CBSE Class 10 exam consists of 100 marks, 80 marks for the Theory Paper and 20 marks for Internal Assessment. I advise you to start by going through the syllabus and check the high-weightage topics which will cover around 70-80% of the marks.
NCERT textbooks should be prioritized as the majority of your board exam questions are directly or indirectly based on NCERT books. Go through the exercises at the end of the chapter as those questions represent the pattern of questions normally asked in board exams. Until the student understands the marking scheme and distribution of questions, it's difficult to know how to devote study time effectively.
In terms of understanding of concepts it is advised to check resources like Disha 360 for Social Science, that reduce this textbook-style deeper understanding of theory, to much simpler terms, and have more defined question banks from this reduced and simplified theory.
2. Develop a Well-Thought-Out Study Plan
Time management becomes essential for completing the entire syllabus, without feeling overwhelmed. Create a reasonable and effective study plan that divides your study time into daily segments of focused preparation time of 3-4 hours, including suitable breaks to maintain focus.
Divide your study time amongst your subjects, based on perceived difficulty and your 'strongholds'. Focus your time on subjects requiring more time to learn, such as Mathematics and Science whilst keeping up with the easier subjects. Use the Pomodoro technique of studying for 25 minutes; then take a 5 minute break. This will allow your focus on studies, without burning out.
You should also plan your study hours starting with the most difficult subject, when your brain is fresh. For instance, do the most difficult mathematical problems in the morning, followed by Science concepts, and later in the day try language subjects.
3. Practicing Using Question Banks and Sample Papers
Regular practice, with a diverse number of question types is important in your aim to earn a high score. Try to solve previous year question papers and other sample papers to expose yourself to questions and familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and on how to manage exam time.
Use a variety of question banks comprising objective as well as subjective types. For example if you incorporate Science and Mathematics question banks like WinR Score series, they have a question bank for each chapter, with fully solved competency-based type questions in line with the recent CBSE examination pattern. Regular practice will help you develop effective examination strategies and also alleviates tension on the day of the examination.
4. Clear Concepts - Not Rote Learn for Consistent scores above 95%
Having consistent scores above 95% has more to do with depth of understanding than memorising content. For Mathematics - it's about depth of understanding of concepts, formulas and theorems and not simply memorisation. Practising different problems daily will help improve your problem-solving abilities.
In both Physics and Chemistry you should focus on learning important terms, reactions and key formulas in a methodical order. In Biology, you should try to use diagrams and illustrations to understand complicated processes.
For Social Science, you should annotate notes covering; important dates, events and definitions. Use diagrams, maps, charts and timelines to help build a better understanding of the geographical locations, historical dates and events being studied.
5. Keep It Consistent With Revising and Maintaining Good Habits
Everyday revision is much better than cramming the day before. Plan out your revision timetable to cover all your subjects and be organised. You should aim to leave around one month of full revision before your exams.
You should maintain healthy living during your revision period. Sleep well (7-8 hours), eat healthy, drink enough water and keep your mind sharp and functioning. Ensure you are including some physical exercise in your day, as exercise can help with the surge of cortisol (stress) and even help improve concentration in your studies too.
Make practices of writing out your answers for the exam, as in the end your mark totally relies on how you write your answers. Make sure you structure your answers correctly and use proper explanation of diagrams wherever possible.
Conclusion
Scoring above 95% in the CBSE Class 10 board exam is possible and only requires dedication, planning and working consistently. Do not forget, success in undertaking board exams is not about simply hard work but about working smart. Use reliable study materials, practice regularly, and maintain a balanced approach to your preparation. With these five tips and consistent implementation, you'll be well-prepared to excel in your CBSE Class 10 board exams.
FAQs
Q.1 What is the new CBSE Class 10 exam pattern in 2026?
Two Exams per Year: All students must appear for the first board exam (main exam), held in mid-February. The second exam, scheduled for May, is optional—it’s meant for students who wish to improve their marks or clear compartment subjects
Q.2 Who is eligible for the second (improvement/compartment) exam?
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Students wishing to improve marks in up to three subjects
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Those in need of a compartment (failed a subject)
Q.3 How will marks be shown on the CBSE mark sheet?
The best scores from either the first or second attempt in any subject will be reflected in the final mark sheet.
Q.4 What if a student fails in multiple subjects?
If a student fails in three or more subjects in the first exam, they will be classified as “Essential Repeat” and must reappear in the next academic session—they cannot sit for the second exam in the same year
Q.5Where can I find the official CBSE Class 10 date sheet and updates?
Visit the official CBSE website (cbse.gov.in) for date sheets, detailed guidelines, and notifications.
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