Know the format
From 2026 CBSE Class 10 has two board exam phases. Phase 1 in February-March is compulsory and phase 2 in May is optional, and the better score can be kept. Always confirm the dates and rules on the official CBSE website.
Days 1-40: Build
Finish the syllabus once. Take one chapter at a time, make short notes and keep a formula page for maths and science.
Days 41-70: Practise
Solve NCERT examples and exercises completely. Then solve sample papers chapter by chapter. Competency-based questions need thinking, not just memory.
Clear stream and subject direction with a detailed report.
Days 71-90: Revise
Write full papers in exam time. Revise only notes, diagrams and your error notebook.
The error notebook
Write each mistake and its reason: concept gap, calculation slip, careless reading or time. Revise it every Sunday. It is the fastest way to raise marks.
Health and mind
Sleep 7 to 8 hours, eat on time, walk daily and take short breaks. Marks matter but they do not measure your worth.
Frequently asked questions
How many hours should I study daily?
Quality matters more than hours. Four to six focused hours with breaks is a common target in exam months.
Is NCERT enough?
NCERT is the base. Add sample papers and previous papers for practice.
What if I score low in phase 1?
Check the official rules on the optional phase and plan carefully with your teachers.