CBSE Class 10 English: First, Know What’s New in 2026
Before opening your notes, understand the pattern.
Key updates:
- 50% competency-based questions: Case studies. Source-based. MCQs. Application-focused.
- Two board exams: February (main attempt) and May (improvement option).
- Paper structure remains the same:
- Reading Skills: 20 marks
- Writing & Grammar: 20 marks
- Literature Textbook: 40 marks
So yes, the structure of the CBSE class 10 question paper is familiar. But the thinking level? Slightly upgraded.
Rule: Understanding > Memorising.
Section-Wise Last-Minute Strategy
Let’s break it down smartly.
1. Literature [40 Marks] (Your Biggest Scoring Area)
This section decides your overall score. But here’s the truth: Do NOT re-read full chapters now.
Instead:
- Revise summaries
- Focus on themes
- Prepare character sketches in Mind
- Understand the message of each story/poem
Examiners don’t want storytelling. They want interpretation.
If asked about a character:
- Don’t narrate the plot.
- Explain traits. Support with brief references.
For poems:
- Memorise 1–2 important lines.
- Understand tone and message.
Depth matters more than length. As experts say: “The board checks understanding, not memory power.”
2. Writing Skills [10 Marks] (Easy Marks If You’re Smart)
Students lose marks here unnecessarily. Why?
Format mistakes
For the CBSE Class 10 English question paper, format is everything.
Revise:
- Formal Letter
- Analytical Paragraph
- Article Writing
- Report Writing
- Notice
Create a one-page format sheet. Revise it. Structure should always be:
Introduction → Clear Body → Logical Conclusion
Don’t try to sound Shakespearean. Just remain simple, correct, and clear. That’s it.
If possible, practise from the English sample papers for Class 10 with solutions. Observe how model answers are structured.
You’ll notice one thing: Clarity beats complexity.
3. Grammar [10 Marks] (Pure Accuracy Game)
Grammar is rule-based. No creativity needed. Focus on high-error areas:
- Tenses
- Modals
- Subject-verb agreement
- Reported speech
- Determiners
- Editing & omission
Practice 10 to 15 questions from each area. And please!
Read the full sentence before answering.
Half-reading = half-marks
Fact to remember: Accuracy > Speed
4. Reading Comprehension [20 Marks] (Strategy Section)
Reading can feel tiring. But it’s scoring if approached correctly.
Smart approach:
- Read questions first
- Then read the passage
- Underline keywords mentally
Don’t copy entire lines blindly. If asked in your own words, paraphrase. Practise 2 to 3 passages before exam day. Time yourself. This improves confidence massively.
CBSE Board Exam Resources
3-Day Power Revision Plan Before the Board Exam
| Day | Focus |
| Day 1 | Literature revision (themes + characters) |
| Day 2 | Grammar practice, Writing formats + timed practice |
| Day 3 | Solve one full CBSE Class 10 question paper and
Revision + error notebook |
Solving at least one full CBSE Class 10 English question paper under timed conditions is non-negotiable.
It shows you time gaps, weak areas, and writing speed issues.
Common Mistakes in English Board Preparation
- Starting new chapters
- Memorising long answers blindly
- Ignoring grammar revision
- Writing overly complex sentences
- Sleeping late at night before the exam
English rewards calm thinking and not panic energy.
Board Exam Presentation Tips for Better Scores
This is underrated. But real. In the CBSE Class 10 board exam English, presentation matters.
- Leave space between answers
- Underline key points
- Maintain margins
- Write neatly
Examiners check hundreds of copies. Make yours easy to read. Easy copies get better attention.
Expert Advice You Should Remember
Two powerful reminders from educators:
“Write as if your words are speaking, not performing.”
“Depth of understanding matters far more than surface reading.”
English is not about showing off vocabulary. You have to go about expressing thoughts clearly. If you don’t know a full answer, write what you understand about the theme. Partial understanding still gets marks. Blank pages don’t.
Exam-Day Time Strategy
Rough split for 3 hours:
| Section | Time Allocation |
|---|---|
| Reading | 20 Minutes |
| Writing | 40 Minutes |
| Literature + Grammar | Remaining Time |
Start with the section you’re most confident in. Momentum matters.
The 15-Minute Daily Drill
Every day:
- Read one short article or poem
- Summarise it in your own words
This sharpens expression. Confidence improves naturally. That is the magic of timely repetition.
Tips For Board Preparation Exam Class 10th 2026
FAQs
Final Reassurance
Listen carefully. The English board exam is not designed to fail you. It is designed to test clarity. So, if you:
- Understand themes
- Follow formats
- Revise grammar rules
- Practice one or two English sample papers for class 10 with solutions
You will be fine and more than fine. Stay calm. Sleep properly. Trust your preparation. And remember, this is one exam and not your life story. You’ve got this.
FAQs: Class 10 English Board Exam 2026
1. How should I prepare in the last Days for the CBSE Class 10 Board Exam English?
Focus on revision, not new learning. Revise literature themes and character traits. Practise writing formats daily. Solve at least one CBSE class 10 question paper under timed conditions. Give special attention to grammar accuracy and presentation.
2. Are English sample papers for Class 10 with solutions really helpful?
Yes. Very. Solving English sample papers for class 10 with solutions helps you to understand the latest pattern and learn the answer structure. You greatly improve time management and identify weak areas as well. But don’t just solve. Analyse mistakes after.
3. How can I score above 90 in the CBSE Class 10 English exam?
To score 90+ in the CBSE class 10 board exam English:
Focus on interpretation, not story narration. Follow correct writing formats strictly, avoid grammar and spelling mistakes, keep answers clear and relevant and present your paper neatly
Clarity + structure + accuracy always give high score.
