CBSE Board Exams 2026 Begin on February 17: Smart Study Tips to Score High in Class 10 and 12

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to begin the Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations for the academic session 2025–26 from February 17, 2026. With the exams just around the corner, lakhs of students across the country are now focusing on last-minute revision and strategy building to improve their final scores.

Scoring above 90 percent in CBSE board exams requires more than just completing the syllabus. Experts believe that a well-planned study strategy, consistent revision, conceptual clarity, and smart exam-day techniques play a decisive role in achieving top results. At this crucial stage, adopting the right approach can significantly enhance performance.

Here are some smart and practical study tips

that can help students maximise their scores in CBSE Board Exams 2026.

Create an Error Notebook for Better Revision

One of the most effective preparation methods is maintaining a separate error notebook. Students should note down mistakes made during sample papers, pre-board exams, and mock tests. Revisiting these errors regularly helps avoid repeating the same mistakes in the final exam and strengthens weak areas.

Balanced Preparation Is Key

CBSE does not follow a fixed chapter-wise weightage every year. While some topics may appear frequently, completely skipping any chapter can be risky. Students are advised to focus on balanced syllabus coverage

, giving attention to both strong and weak topics. A comprehensive approach ensures that unexpected questions do not affect overall performance.

Focus on Conceptual Understanding, Not Rote Learning

Rote learning may help in short-term memorisation but often fails in application-based questions. Students should focus on understanding core concepts

, revising class notes, and practising numerical and competency-based questions. Solving previous years’ question papers and taking three to four full-length mock tests evaluated by teachers can help identify performance gaps.

Time Management and Smart Study Sessions

Long, unfocused study hours can be counter-productive. Instead, students should opt for short, highly focused study sessions

with regular breaks. Creating a realistic daily timetable that includes revision, practice, and rest can improve concentration and retention.

Answer Writing Matters in Board Exams

Presentation plays a crucial role in CBSE evaluations. Students should:

• Clearly mention formulas and given data

• Show step-by-step solutions before the final answer

• Write neat and legible answers

Draw diagrams and constructions clearly using a pencil, wherever required

Avoid overwriting or scratching answers. If a mistake occurs, cut it neatly to maintain answer-sheet cleanliness.

Smart MCQ Attempting Strategy

With MCQs being an important part of the CBSE paper pattern, students must practise answering them carefully. Writing the question number along with the selected option

correctly helps avoid unnecessary errors. Reading all options thoroughly before answering is essential.

Stay Calm and Consistent

Mental health and confidence are as important as academic preparation. Students should get adequate sleep, eat balanced meals, and avoid last-minute panic. A calm and focused mindset on exam day can significantly improve performance.