That’s why in this guide, we have come up with 10 tips to score high in social science class 10, making this guide a All in one social science class 10.
CBSE Social Science Class 10 Exam Pattern 2026 Explained
But before we give you the tips to prepare for the Social Science Class 10, you need to be aware of the Class 10 CBSE Social Science question paper pattern to be able to prepare for it properly, and here’s the exact breakdown of marks you should prepare for:
| Type of Questions | Number of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Weightage |
| MCQs (Including Assertion–Reason, Differentiation & Case/Stem-based) | 20 | 1 | 20 | 25% |
| Short Answer (2 Marks) | 4 | 2 | 8 | 10% |
| Long Answer (5 Marks) | 3 | 5 | 15 | 18.75% |
| Case Study Questions | 3 | 4 | 12 | 15% |
| Long Answer (5 Marks) | 4 | 5 | 20 | 25% |
| Map Work (Map Pointing) | — | — | 5 | 6.25% |
| Total | — | — | 80 | 100% |
Tip 1: Make NCERT Your Primary Book
Now, the first tip is to make the NCERT your primary source for the social science class 10 exam. If you take a look at the previous year’s question papers, you will notice that most questions are directly asked from the NCERT. So, instead of relying on other sources, make sure that the NCERTs are your primary source.
In case you have some doubts, then you can rely on other sources like reference books, but choose to rely on the NCERT solutions for Class 10 Social Science for the most part.
Tip 2: Practice with the SST Sample Paper Class 10 Regularly
By now, you are already aware of the SST syllabus class 10 CBSE 2025-26, and this is why you must use the SST sample paper class 10 to take your preparation to the next level.
This is because solving sample papers and mock tests allows you to practice the actual test, which you can further enhance by timing the test for 3 hours, like in the actual exam.
This not only gets you warmed up for the exam, but is also a good practice that boosts your confidence before you appear for the actual exam. Make sure not to skip the Social Science Sample Paper Class 10 2025 during your exam prep.
Tip 3: Master Answer Writing Techniques
Writing good answers is an art, especially when it comes to social science class 10, and the art of writing good answers changes drastically for 3, 4, and 5-mark answers.
The best approach is to follow a keyword-based, structured formatting method:
- Answer the question point-wise
- Use headings and subheadings wherever possible
- Include pointers.
Remember key points from each question and learn to expand on them later on. Keep answers to the point and focus on conceptual clarity.
Tip 4: Focus on Maps and Case-Based Questions
Maps and case-based questions are inevitable in the social science class 10 exam, and while they can be a bit intimidating, they’re actually the most scoring. Map work is the easiest 5 marks if practised properly.
So if you’re appearing for the exam, instead of focusing only on CBSE class 10 social science MCQ, give equal attention to map and case-based questions.
Tip 5: Practice CBSE Class 10 Social Science MCQ Daily
Now, as we saw earlier, the CBSE class 10 social science MCQ is the part that carries the most marks with the least required effort, and you should not neglect it.
You also need to give extensive focus to this section to make sure that you score the most marks.
- Be thorough with the NCERT
- Refer to reference books for additional clarity.
Remember that 95%+ scorers secure full marks in MCQs because they practise daily.
Tip 6: Use the Right Reference Book (If Needed)
If you’re thorough with the NCERTs already and want to take your prep to the next level, make sure that you use the right reference books, as they’re an all-in-one social science class 10 guide; they generally come up with a lot of MCQs, practice questions, and insights, which would take your preparation one step further.
Note: Do not replace the NCERTs; they should always be your primary source.
Tip 7: Create Smart Revision Notes
You need to revise everything one day before the exam, and you do not have the liberty to read all your material during the test.
The best course of action should always be to create:
- Smart revision notes
- One-page chapter summaries
- Timeline charts
These are just for a quick glance, and are often what separates the A-grade students from average performers.
Tip 8: Analyse Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Other than the SST sample paper class 10, you should also thoroughly analyse previous year question papers. Make sure you at least analyse the questions of the last 5 years, and prepare every question that was asked there.
As these questions can either be repeated or similar questions are often asked. You can predict and identify frequently repeated themes, Chapter-wise PYQ revision, and the Weightage analysis from PYQs.
Tip 9: Follow a Revision Plan Before Boards
Make sure you have a revision plan ready before the boards, where you constantly practice writing answers, appearing for mock tests, and practising sample papers. Treat the final days as full-length mock simulations before the actual board exam.
Top 10: Prioritise Weak Chapters for Maximum Improvement
As a student, you are aware of which areas you are the weakest in, which is why you should prioritise filling your gaps in these weak areas before your exam, as even a single mark can be the difference between you and the student with 95%.
Read Also Some Important Articles: SST class 10
Conclusion
Remember, preparing for the social science class 10 exam doesn’t have to be difficult. By implementing these 10 steps in your preparation, even in the last few weeks, as long as you adhere to a methodical approach, you can score high.
Focus on NCERT, practice sample papers regularly, and refine answer writing; these three strategies alone can push you above 90%.
All the best for your exam; stay consistent, stay focused, and trust your preparation.
FAQs
How many hours should I study daily for social science class 10?
You should study Social Science for at least 1–2 focused hours daily, increasing to 2–3 hours during revision time, while ensuring consistent practice and regular revision.
Are sample papers enough to score 90+ in SST?
Solving the SST sample paper class 10 regularly is very important for scoring 90+, but you must also revise concepts and practise previous year questions to secure top marks.
Is NCERT enough for boards?
Yes, NCERT is sufficient for board exams if you study it thoroughly and practise answer writing with the help of NCERT solutions for class 10 social science.
