As the CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2026 approaches, students often find themselves juggling anxiety, unfinished chapters, and countless sample papers. At this stage, smart revision matters more than long study hours. Whether you study at home or at the Best CBSE School in Sikar , the right last-minute strategy can significantly improve your performance. Instead of learning new topics, your focus should now shift to strengthening concepts, improving accuracy, and managing time effectively.

Understand the Latest CBSE Exam Pattern

Before revising, revisit the official guidelines issued by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). For 2026, CBSE continues to emphasize:

  • Competency-based and case-study questions

  • Application of concepts over rote memorization

  • Internal choices in question papers

  • Balanced weight across units

Go through the latest syllabus and sample question papers available on the official CBSE website. This ensures you are not wasting time on deleted topics and are practicing questions in the correct format.

1. Prioritize Important Topics (But Don't Ignore Basics)

During the final days, focus on:

  • Frequently asked topics from previous 5–10 years' papers

  • High-weightage chapters

  • Numerical and case-based questions

  • Diagrams, maps, and formulas

For example:

  • In Mathematics, revise Algebra, Trigonometry, and Statistics thoroughly.

  • In Science, focus on Physics numericals, Chemistry reactions, and Biology diagrams.

  • In Social Science, prepare key dates, case studies, and map work.

However, avoid skipping foundational chapters. Often, short-answer questions come from basic concepts.

2. Practice with Sample Papers Under Real Conditions

CBSE releases official sample papers every year. Solve at least 3–5 full-length papers:

  • Set a 3-hour timer

  • Sit in a distraction-free environment

  • Follow the same writing pattern as the board exam

After solving, analyze mistakes carefully. Identify:

  • Conceptual errors

  • Calculation mistakes

  • Time management issues

This step alone can improve your marks by 10–15%.

3. Revise Smartly with the 80/20 Rule

The Pareto Principle (80/20 rule) suggests that a small portion of focused effort often produces most of the results. In exam revision, this means:

  • Concentrate on high-yield topics

  • Revise summaries instead of rereading entire chapters

  • Focus on weak areas rather than re-studying strong topics repeatedly

Create short revision notes including:

  • Key formulas

  • Important definitions

  • Diagrams

  • Dates and events

These quick notes are lifesavers during the final week.

4. Strengthen Writing Presentation

CBSE examiners award marks for clarity and structured answers. Keep in mind:

  • Underline key terms

  • Draw neat and labeled diagrams

  • Use headings and bullet points

  • Leave proper spacing between answers

In subjects like Social Science and English, structured answers often bring better marks than lengthy paragraphs.

5. Revise Formulas and Key Concepts Daily

For Mathematics and Science:

  • Maintain a separate formula sheet

  • Revise chemical equations daily

  • Practice 5–10 numericals each day

For English:

  • Revise formats (letters, notices, articles)

  • Practice unseen passages

  • Go through important themes and character sketches

For Hindi or other languages:

  • Revise grammar rules

  • Practice writing formats

  • Review important pems and explanations

Consistency matters more than intensity at this stage.

6. Focus on Time Management in the Exam Hall

Many students lose marks not because they don't know the answers, but because they run out of time.

During the exam:

  • Read the question paper for the first 15 minutes carefully

  • Attempt easier questions first

  • Allocate time section-wise

  • Keep 10–15 minutes for revision

Avoid spending too much time on a single difficult question.

7. Avoid Starting New Chapters Now

Last-minute learning often creates confusion. Instead:

  • Revise what you already know

  • Clarify doubts from teachers

  • Watch short concept revision videos (if needed)

  • Avoid heavy new material

Confidence plays a major role in board exams. Stick to your preparation.

8. Take Care of Your Health

Sleep deprivation reduces concentration and memory retention. Aim for:

  • 7–8 hours of sleep

  • Light exercise or short walks

  • Balanced meals

  • Limited screen time

Stress management techniques like deep breathing can improve focus before exams.

9. Don't Compare Your Preparation with Others

In the final weeks, avoid negative discussions like:

  • “I finished the syllabus twice.

  • “I solved 20 sample papers.

Everyone studies differently. Focus on your own progress and improvements.

10. Believe in Consistent Effort

Board exams test clarity and consistency, not last-minute cramming. Students who revise systematically, practice writing, and stay calm often perform better than those who panic.

Remember, Class 10 boards are important but they are not the final destination. Treat them as a stepping stone in your academic journey.

Final Words

The last few weeks before the CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2026 should be about refinement, not panic. Focus on strengthening your understanding, practicing smartly, and maintaining a positive mindset. With disciplined revision and proper strategy, you can walk into the examination hall with confidence and clarity.

 

FAQs

 

How many hours should I study during the last month before CBSE Class 10 boards?

Quality matters more than hours. Studying 5–7 focused hours daily with proper breaks is generally more effective than long, distracted sessions.

Is solving previous year question papers enough for revision?

Previous year papers are extremely helpful because they show exam trends and frequently asked topics. However, combine them with textbook revision and sample papers for best results.

Should I study late at night during board exams?

It's better to follow a routine that suits your body clock. Proper sleep improves memory retention and concentration during exams.

How can I reduce exam stress before the CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2026?

Practice deep breathing, revise short notes instead of heavy chapters, avoid negative discussions, and stay physically active. Confidence grows with preparation.

What is the best strategy for scoring above 90% in Class 10 boards?

  • clear conceptual understanding

  • Regular sample paper practice

  • Neat presentation

  • Time management

  • Consistent revision

Scoring above 90% is achievable with structured preparation and calm execution.