CBSE Class 12 Physics Answer Writing Tips as per On-Screen Marking Scheme

The Physics exam, as you already know, does not spare you if you know the answer but fail to present it properly. In 2026, that matters even more because your answer sheet will be scanned and evaluated digitally under the On-Screen Marking (OSM) system.

There is no room for messy steps, unclear diagrams, or half-written derivations.

If you’re appearing for the CBSE Class 12 Physics exam on 20 February 2026 (10:30 AM – 1:30 PM), this is your last-minute reality check.

First, Understand On-Screen Marking (OSM)

From 2026, CBSE Class 12 Physics answer sheets will be scanned.

Examiners will:

• Scroll through digital images
• View one answer at a time
• Evaluate step-wise

Here’s what changes for you:

Translation?

• If your handwriting is unclear, it may not be evaluated properly.
• If you crowd answers, scanning may cut parts off.

This is where board exam presentation tips become serious.

Marking Scheme Breakdown (70 Marks Theory)

Understanding the pattern = half preparation.

The paper is structured. So your answers must be structured too.

Important Resources for CBSE Board Class 12 Students

• CBSE Class 12 Board Exam Preparation Resources
• CBSE Class 12 Date Sheet 2025-26
• CBSE Class 12 Syllabus 2025-26 (All Subjects)
• CBSE Class 12 Mock Test Papers with Answers

How to Write Answers for Maximum Marks

Let’s go section-wise.

1. Numericals: Step Marking Is Your Best Friend

CBSE gives marks for steps, even if the final answer is wrong. Correct format for 3 or 5 mark numericals:

Never skip units. Never. If you write:

V = IR

But forget “Ohm” or “Volt”, you lose marks. These are basic but powerful exam tips for students who want 90+.

2. Derivations: Structure = Marks

For 5-mark derivations:

Break it like this:

• Statement of law
• Neat labeled diagram (if needed)
• Mathematical steps
• Final expression (boxed)

Draw diagrams with a pencil and scale. Label clearly. If a ray diagram doesn’t have arrows, it looks incomplete. Examiners award marks point-wise. So, help them see your points.

3. Case Study Questions (Section D)

These are test applications. 50% of the paper now focuses on competency-based questions.

Here’s how to handle them:

• Read the passage slowly
• Identify concept
• Apply the formula logically
• Answer in complete sentences

Don’t copy blindly from the passage. Use physics language.

Example: Instead of writing “Because energy increases”

Write: “Due to an increase in kinetic energy as per the conservation principle…”

Small difference. Big impact.

Section Discipline: Zero Tolerance

This is important. If your answer sheet has subject-wise sections:

Physics answers must be written only in the Physics section.

If you write in the wrong section, it may not be evaluated. Yes. Even if correct. Double-check the question number before starting.

Board Exam Presentation Tips (Very Important)

Under OSM, presentation matters more than ever. Here’s how to stay safe:

• Handwriting: Write clearly, Avoid overwriting, Don’t squeeze text
• Spacing: Leave space between answers and start each new answer on a fresh line
• Diagrams: Pencil only; label all parts and use standard symbols for circuits
• Cancellation: If you make a mistake, strike once neatly and don’t scribble.

Always remember, messy corrections look worse on scan.

Time Management Strategy (3 Hours)

Time is physics, too. Manage it.

Keep the last 10 minutes for:

• Unit checking
• Question numbering
• Final answer boxing

Common Mistakes That Cost 5-8 Marks Easily

Let’s prevent silent damage.

• Writing the formula after substitution
• Skipping diagram
• Forgetting unit conversion
• Writing theory for a numerical question
• Not boxing final answer
• Tiny, cramped handwriting

These are not knowledge mistakes. These are execution mistakes. Avoid them.

Smart Preparation Before 20 February 2026

The CBSE Class 12 Physics exam answer key will be released after the paper. But don’t prepare for the answer key. Prepare for the examiner.

Before exam day:

• Revise all formulas daily
• Practice 2–3 previous year papers
• Time yourself strictly
• Practice neat answer formatting

Remember: Class 12 has only one board attempt per academic year. Unlike Class 10, there’s no second board option. So this is your moment.

High-Weightage Chapters to Prioritize

Focus extra revision on:

• Electrostatics
• Current Electricity
• Magnetic Effects
• EMI & AC
• Ray & Wave Optics
• Modern Physics
• Semiconductors

Most numericals and derivations come from here.

CBSE Class 12 Exam Related Resources and Study Material

Final Expert Advice

Physics does not reward writing more. It rewards writing correctly and to the point. You need to write:

• Clear formula
• Clear steps
• Clear unit
• Clear diagram

That’s it. You don’t need dramatic English. There is a need for structured logic. And trust me: Examiners want to give marks. Make it easy for them.

FAQs

1. Does handwriting really matter in the 2026 Physics exam?

Yes. Because of On-Screen Marking. Blurry or cramped writing may not be evaluated properly. Clear handwriting protects your marks.

2. Will I get marks if my final numerical answer is wrong?

Yes, if your formula, substitution, and steps are correct. CBSE follows step marking in the Physics exam.

3. When will the CBSE Class 12 Physics exam answer key be released?

The official question paper and answer key are usually released after the exam concludes. For 2026, the exam is scheduled on 20 February 2026.

4. What are the most important exam tips for students scoring above 90 in Physics?

• Write the formula first
• Show all steps
• Never skip units
• Draw neat diagrams
• Leave space between answers
• Review in the last 10 minutes

Simple habits. Massive difference.