The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will begin its board examinations on February 17, 2026, with Mathematics scheduled on the first day. As the subject is often perceived as one of the most challenging, students across the country are seeking structured ways to prepare effectively and secure high marks. This guide outlines the essential strategies that can help students manage preparation with greater confidence and less stress.
1. Understand the Syllabus and Weightage
A strong score begins with clarity on the syllabus and the chapter-wise weightage. High-priority units typically include Algebra, Coordinate Geometry, Triangles, Trigonometry, Surface Areas and Volumes, and Statistics & Probability. Prioritising these areas ensures that study time is allocated efficiently and in alignment with the marking scheme.
2. Master the NCERT Textbook
The NCERT textbook remains the most critical resource for Class 10 Mathematics. Students should thoroughly complete all examples and exercises, earmarking difficult problems for revision. Given that most examination questions are drawn directly from NCERT or are patterned closely around it, consistent practice from the textbook is essential.
3. Practice Previous Years’ Papers and Sample Papers
Attempting previous years’ papers helps students identify recurring question types, understand the paper pattern, and improve time management. Solving CBSE-issued sample papers and reviewing the official marking scheme offers clarity on step-wise marking, which is crucial for maximising scores.
4. Maintain a Formula Notebook
Keeping a dedicated formula notebook with all important formulas, theorems, and identities aids quick and effective revision. Reviewing this document daily reinforces retention and enhances problem-solving efficiency during the exam.
5. Write Steps Clearly and Avoid Common Errors
Mathematics rewards methodical, step-by-step solutions. Students should write each step clearly, highlight final answers, and use diagrams wherever relevant. To avoid unnecessary loss of marks, they must watch out for sign errors, incorrect substitutions, unsimplified answers, and transcription mistakes. A brief review in the last few minutes of the exam can correct many such errors.
6. Strengthen Weak Chapters
Identifying weak areas early allows students to revisit class notes, seek clarifications, and practise systematically. Using supplementary videos or teacher guidance can be helpful for complex concepts.
7. Integrate Timed Practice and Regular Revision
Timed practice builds speed and accuracy—two essential components for performing well in Mathematics. Students should routinely attempt mixed-question sets under exam-like conditions to become familiar with working within time constraints.
Final Preparation Tips for Exam Day
Use neat and labelled diagrams, especially in Geometry-based questions, as they help secure additional marks. Avoid picking up new concepts at the last minute; instead, focus exclusively on revision to reinforce confidence and clarity.
