The CBSE Syllabus for Class 10 for the academic session 2026-27 is the first thing you should review before starting your board exam preparation. The syllabus helps you to understand the chapters you must cover in subjects like Mathematics, Science, Social Science, and English while building concepts useful for exams such as JEE, NEET, CUET, CLAT, and IPMAT.
The CBSE structures the Class 10 board examination syllabus with clearly defined subjects, units, and chapters. The curriculum also explains internal assessment, project work, and the written exam pattern that contribute to your final board examination score.
At Law Prep Tutorial, you can explore the complete CBSE Syllabus for Class 10 2026-27, including the subject-wise curriculum, exam pattern, official syllabus PDF, and recommended NCERT books.
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CBSE Class 10 Subjects List 2026-27
The Central Board of Secondary Education organises the Class 10 curriculum through a structured Scheme of Studies. Under this framework, subjects are grouped into specific categories such as Group-L (Languages), Group-A1 (Core Academic Subjects), Group-A2 (Academic Electives), and Subjects of Internal Assessment for the academic session 2026–27.
For the CBSE Class 10 board examination, students must study at least five main subjects drawn from the Language group and the Core Academic group. These subjects form the basis of the final board result. In addition, many schools may offer an additional skill or vocational subject that focuses on practical knowledge and career-oriented learning.
The sections below outline the compulsory subjects and optional or skill subjects included in the CBSE Class 10 curriculum for the academic year 2026-27.
CBSE Class 10 Compulsory Subjects (Group-A1)
The Group-A1 subjects form the core academic foundation of the CBSE Class 10 curriculum. Every student must study these subjects along with the required languages. These subjects appear in the final board examination conducted by the Central Board of Secondary 1Education.
Each subject carries 80 marks for theory and 20 marks for internal assessment, with a total of 100 marks. The duration of the written examination is 3 hours.
The following table lists the core subjects included under Group-A1 in the CBSE Class 10 curriculum.
| S.No. | Code of Exam | Name of Subjects |
| 1 | 041 | Mathematics Standard |
| 2 | 241 | Mathematics Basic |
| 3 | 086 | Science |
| 4 | 087 | Social Science |
Note: Students choose between Mathematics Standard and Mathematics Basic. The Basic level restricts the option of taking Mathematics in Class 11, while the Standard level allows students to continue with Mathematics in higher secondary classes.
Internal Assessments: In addition to academic subjects, CBSE requires schools to conduct internal assessments. These subjects do not have a board examination and are graded using a five-point scale (A-E). The grades appear in the final report card.
| List of Subjects for Internal Assessments | Details of the Subjects |
| Art Education | Art education includes visual arts such as drawing, painting, sculpture, murals, crafts, and performing arts such as music, dance, drama, and puppetry. Students choose one visual art and one performing art form. Teachers assess creativity, participation, expression, and effort through activities, projects, and competitions. |
| Health and Physical Education (HPE) | Health and Physical Education includes physical fitness, yoga, indigenous sports, adventure activities, and health awareness. It also includes SEWA (Social Empowerment through Work and Action) and self-defence training, especially for girls. |
| Work Experience | Work Experience is integrated within Health and Physical Education (HPE). Schools recommend one period daily and assess participation, teamwork, and commitment. Annual medical check-ups are advised according to CBSE Comprehensive School Health Manuals. |
CBSE Class 10 Optional / Skill Subjects
Apart from the compulsory subjects, students may also choose optional or skill-based subjects, usually taken as a sixth subject (and sometimes a seventh subject depending on the school). The following options are available for students who wish to take an additional subject. Students can select:
- A third language from Group-L, or
- An Academic Elective from Group-A2, or
- A Skill Subject from Group-S
Skill subjects focus on competency-based learning and employability skills and generally follow a 50 marks theory + 50 marks practical or project work.
Important Restrictions: Students can choose only one subject from the following:
- Computer Applications
- Information Technology
- Artificial Intelligence
If a student fails in one core subject (Science, Mathematics, or Social Science), a passed skill subject may replace it for result calculation, according to CBSE guidelines.
The following table lists the skill subjects available for Classes IX-X as per the CBSE Skill Education curriculum for the 2026-26 academic session.
| Subject Code | Name of the Subject |
| — | Employability Skills (Common for All Courses) |
| 401 | Retail |
| 402 | Information Technology |
| 403 | Security |
| 404 | Automotive |
| 405 | Introduction to Financial Markets |
| 406 | Introduction to Tourism |
| 407 | Beauty and Wellness |
| 408 | Agriculture |
| 409 | Food Production |
| 410 | Front Office Operations |
| 411 | Banking and Insurance |
| 412 | Marketing and Sales |
| 413 | Healthcare |
| 414 | Apparel |
| 415 | Multi-Media |
| 416 | Multi-Skill Foundation Course |
| 417 | Artificial Intelligence |
| 418 | Physical Activity Trainer |
| 419 | Data Science |
| 420 | Electronics & Hardware |
| 421 | Foundation Skills for Sciences (Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology) |
| 422 | Design Thinking & Innovation |
Other Subjects – Academic Electives (Group-A2)
The subjects in academic electives combine theory and practical or project components and may be offered as optional subjects. Students can choose from the following subjects under the Academic Electives group.
| S.No. | Code | Name of Subjects | Theory | Duration | Internal | Practical / Project | Total Marks |
| 1 | 031 | Carnatic Music (Vocal) | 30 | 2 hrs | 20 | 50 | 100 |
| 2 | 032 | Carnatic Music (Melodic Instruments) | 30 | 2 hrs | 20 | 50 | 100 |
| 3 | 033 | Carnatic Music (Percussion Instruments) | 30 | 2 hrs | 20 | 50 | 100 |
| 4 | 034 | Hindustani Music (Vocal) | 30 | 2 hrs | 20 | 50 | 100 |
| 5 | 035 | Hindustani Music (Melodic Instruments) | 30 | 2 hrs | 20 | 50 | 100 |
| 6 | 036 | Hindustani Music (Percussion Instruments) | 30 | 2 hrs | 20 | 50 | 100 |
| 7 | 049 | Painting | 30 | 2 hrs | 20 | 50 | 100 |
| 8 | 064 | Home Science | 70 | 3 hrs | — | 30 | 100 |
| 9 | 076 | National Cadet Corps (NCC) | 70 | 3 hrs | 30 | — | 100 |
| 10 | 165 | Computer Applications | 50 | 2 hrs | — | 50 | 100 |
| 11 | 154 | Elements of Business | 70 | 3 hrs | — | 30 | 100 |
| 12 | 254 | Elements of Book Keeping & Accountancy | 70 | 3 hrs | — | 30 | 100 |
CBSE Class 10 Optional Languages Subjects (Group-L)
Languages play an important role in the CBSE Class 10 curriculum. You must study two languages in Class 10. Language I is usually English or Hindi, while Language II can be another language from the Group-L list. Some schools also allow a third language as an additional subject, but this depends on the subjects available in your school.
Each language subject carries 100 marks in total. The theory exam accounts for 80 marks and tests reading comprehension, grammar, writing skills, and literature from the prescribed textbooks. The remaining 20 marks come from internal assessment, which may include listening activities, speaking practice, or small classroom projects. The board exam duration is three hours.
The table below shows the languages offered by the Central Board of Secondary Education for Class 10.
| S. No. | Code | Name of Subjects |
| 1 | 002 | Hindi Course A |
| 2 | 085 | Hindi Course B |
| 3 | 184 | English Language and Literature |
| 4 | 101 | English Communicative |
| 5 | 003 | Urdu Course A |
| 6 | 004 | Urdu Course B |
| 7 | 004 | Punjabi |
| 8 | 005 | Bengali |
| 9 | 006 | Tamil |
| 10 | 007 | Telugu |
| 11 | 089 | Telugu Telangana |
| 12 | 008 | Sindhi |
| 13 | 009 | Marathi |
| 14 | 010 | Gujarati |
| 15 | 011 | Manipuri |
| 16 | 012 | Malayalam |
| 17 | 013 | Odia |
| 18 | 014 | Assamese |
| 19 | 015 | Kannada |
| 20 | 016 | Arabic |
| 21 | 017 | Tibetan |
| 22 | 018 | French |
| 23 | 020 | German |
| 24 | 021 | Russian |
| 25 | 023 | Persian |
| 26 | 024 | Nepali |
| 27 | 025 | Limboo |
| 28 | 026 | Lepcha |
| 29 | 088 | Bhoti |
| 30 | 092 | Bodo |
| 31 | 091 | Kok Borok |
| 32 | 093 | Tangkhul |
| 33 | 094 | Japanese |
| 34 | 095 | Bhutia |
| 35 | 096 | Spanish |
| 36 | 097 | Kashmiri |
| 37 | 098 | Mizo |
| 38 | 099 | Bahasa Melayu |
| 39 | 122 | Sanskrit |
| 40 | 119 | Sanskrit Communicative |
| 41 | 131 | Rai |
| 42 | 132 | Gurung |
| 43 | 133 | Tamang |
| 44 | 134 | Sherpa |
| 45 | 136 | Thai |
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CBSE Class 10 Syllabus 2026-27 Subject-Wise
The CBSE Class 10 syllabus for the academic session 2026-27 includes the core subjects prescribed by the Central Board of Secondary Education for the board examination. Each subject covers specific chapters, concepts, and assessment components designed to build a strong academic foundation and prepare students for the Class 10 board exams.
Below is the subject-wise breakdown of the CBSE Class 10 syllabus, which helps you understand the topics included in each subject and plan your preparation accordingly.
CBSE Class 10 English Syllabus
The CBSE Class 10 English syllabus (subject code: 184) builds your reading, writing, and analytical skills through a mix of comprehension passages, grammar exercises, and literary texts. You study prose and poetry from the NCERT book First Flight and supplementary stories from Footprints Without Feet. These lessons help you improve vocabulary, interpret themes, and express ideas clearly in written form.
The board exam for English Language and Literature (Code 184) carries 80 marks for theory, divided into Reading, Writing & Grammar, and Literature sections. Schools assess the remaining 20 marks through internal activities such as listening, speaking, and project work.
Let us begin with the CBSE Class 10 English syllabus, which focuses on developing reading, writing, and analytical skills.
| Sections of CBSE English Examination Paper | Allotted Marks | Important Topics |
| A: Reading Skills | 20 | – One Discursive Passage (400–450 words) carrying 10 marks and one case-based factual passage with visual input (200–250 words) carrying 10 marks. – Questions test comprehension, inference, vocabulary, and analysis. |
| B: Writing Skills & Grammar | 20 | Grammar (10 marks): Gap filling or editing questions based on determiners, tenses, modals, reported speech, and subject–verb concord. Writing (10 marks): One formal letter (100–120 words) and one analytical paragraph based on a chart, map, or graph (100–120 words). |
| C: Literature – First Flight & Footprints Without Feet | 40 | Reference to context (10 marks): Extracts from prose or poetry. Short answer questions (18 marks): Responses of about 40–50 words. Long answer questions (12 marks): Analytical responses of about 100–120 words focusing on themes, characters, or events from the texts. |
Internal Assessment: The internal assessment carries 20 marks and usually includes listening and speaking activities (5 marks) along with project or portfolio work. These activities help you practice communication skills and apply what you learn from the literature and grammar sections during the academic year.
CBSE Class 10 Hindi Syllabus
The CBSE Class 10 Hindi syllabus is offered in two formats: Hindi Course-A (002) and Hindi Course-B (085). Both courses follow the same exam pattern of 80 marks for theory and 20 marks for internal assessment. The difference lies in the level and focus of the textbooks and questions.
Hindi Course-A focuses on deeper literary study through the NCERT books Kshitij Bhag-2 and Kritika Bhag-2. Hindi Course-B focuses more on practical language use with lessons from Sparsh Bhag-2 and Sanchayan Bhag-2, which many students study when Hindi is their second language.
The CBSE Class 10 syllabus also includes Hindi, which is offered at two different levels to suit students’ language proficiency.
Hindi Course-A (Code 002)
| Sections of the CBSE Hindi Examination Paper | Marks | Important Topics |
| अपठित बोध | 14 | Unseen prose and poetry passages that test comprehension and interpretation. |
| व्याकरण | 16 | Topics such as वाक्य भेद, वाच्य, पद परिचय, and अलंकार like उपमा and रूपक. |
| पाठ्यपुस्तक (क्षितिज भाग-2 + कृतिका भाग-2) | 30 | Prose and poetry lessons including texts such as स्त्री-हिंदी विरोधी कुतर्कों का खंडन, मानवीय करुणा, and छाया मत छूना. |
| रचनात्मक लेखन | 20 | – Paragraph writing (about 120 words), – Formal or informal letters, – Self-introduction or email writing, and short notices such as advertisements or messages. |
Hindi Course-B (Code 085)
| Section | Marks | Important Topics |
| बहुविकल्पी / अपठित बोध | 14 | Unseen passages that test reading comprehension. |
| व्याकरण | 16 | Grammar topics such as पदबंध, वाक्य रूपांतरण, समास, and common मुहावरे. |
| पाठ्यपुस्तक (स्पर्श भाग-2 + संचयन भाग-2) | 28 | Selected prose and poetry lessons along with supplementary reading texts. |
| रचनात्मक लेखन | 22 | Paragraph writing, letter writing, picture description, dialogue writing, and short formats such as notices, advertisements, or emails. |
Internal Assessment: The internal assessment carries 20 marks and is conducted by the school. It usually includes listening and speaking activities, portfolio work, and periodic classroom tasks that evaluate your language skills during the academic year.
Some chapters may be rationalised or removed from the syllabus in a particular session. Always check the official CBSE syllabus PDF for the exact list of topics prescribed for the current academic year.
CBSE Class 10 Mathematics Syllabus
The CBSE Class 10 Mathematics syllabus helps you build strong numerical and problem-solving skills. You study topics such as real numbers, algebraic equations, geometry, trigonometric ratios, and probability. These concepts help you solve real-world problems such as calculating distances, analysing data, or measuring shapes.
The Central Board of Secondary Education offers Mathematics at two levels, Mathematics Standard (subject code: 041) and Mathematics Basic (subject code: 241).
Both levels include the same chapters and units. The difference appears in the difficulty of the questions. The Standard paper includes more applications and analytical problems, while the Basic paper focuses on fundamental concepts and routine calculations. The theory paper carries 80 marks, and 20 marks come from the internal assessment.
The table below shows the unit-wise structure of the CBSE Class 10 Mathematics syllabus along with the marks distribution and important topics.
| Unit No. | Name of Unit for CBSE Maths Examination Paper | Marks (Theory) | Important Sub-Topics | Focus of Assessment |
| I | Number Systems | 06 | – Real Numbers, – Fundamental Theorem of Arithmetic, – Proofs of irrational numbers such as √2, √3, √5 | Focus on algebraic proofs and properties of numbers |
| II | Algebra | 20 | – Polynomials; – Pair of Linear Equations in Two Variables; – Quadratic Equations; – Arithmetic Progressions | Solve equations using graphs, factorisation, and formulas |
| III | Coordinate Geometry | 06 | Distance formula and section formula | Apply coordinate methods to find distances and division points |
| IV | Geometry | 15 | – Triangles (similarity, – Basic Proportionality Theorem); – Circles (tangent properties and related theorems) | Solve geometric proofs and theorem-based problems |
| V | Trigonometry | 12 | – Trigonometric ratios for 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°; – Identities such as sin²A + cos²A = 1; – Heights and Distances | Use trigonometry to calculate angles and heights |
| VI | Mensuration | 10 | – Areas related to circles; – Surface areas and volumes of solids such as cylinders, cones, spheres, cubes, and cuboid | Solve problems involving combined three-dimensional shapes |
| VII | Statistics and Probability | 11 | – Mean, median, and mode for grouped data – Basic probability concepts | Interpret data tables and calculate the chances of events |
Assessment and Study Resources: The theory examination carries 80 marks and covers all seven units of the syllabus. Schools assess the remaining 20 marks through internal activities such as pen-paper tests, portfolio work, and mathematics lab exercises.
CBSE Class 10 Science Syllabus
The CBSE Class 10 Science syllabus (subject code: 086) introduces you to important ideas from Chemistry, Biology, and Physics through topics such as chemical reactions, life processes, electricity, and environmental resources. The course combines theory with diagrams, laboratory activities, and observation-based learning. This approach helps you understand scientific principles and apply them to real-world situations.
The Central Board of Secondary Education organises the syllabus into five major themes. The theory examination carries 80 marks, while practical activities and internal assessments form the remaining evaluation. The question paper includes knowledge, application, and analytical questions to test conceptual understanding.
The table below outlines the unit-wise structure of the CBSE Class 10 Science syllabus, along with the distribution of marks and important topics:
| Unit No. | Name of Topics | Allotted Marks | Important Sub-Topics |
| I | Materials | 25 | – Chemical Reactions and Equations; – Acids, Bases and Salts; – Metals and Non-metals; – Carbon and its Compounds |
| II | The World of the Living | 25 | Life Processes (nutrition, respiration, transport, excretion); – Control and Coordination; – Reproduction; – Heredity and Evolution |
| III | Natural Phenomena | 12 | – Reflection of light by mirrors; – Refraction through lenses; – Human eye and Defects of vision; – Dispersion and Scattering of Light |
| IV | How Things Work | 13 | – Effects of electric current (Ohm’s law, resistance, heating effect); – Magnetic effects of current (magnetic field, force on conductor, AC and DC) |
| V | Natural Resources | 5 | – Our Environment, – Ecosystem balance, – Ozone layer depletion – Waste management |
Practical Work and Question Pattern: Students perform laboratory experiments and activities during the academic year, which contribute to internal assessment. These experiments include testing pH values, observing plant structures under a microscope, and analysing electric circuits.
The board question paper follows a competency-based pattern, with about 50% knowledge questions, 30% application-based questions, and 20% analytical or reasoning questions.
CBSE Class 10 Social Science Syllabus
The CBSE Class 10 Social Science syllabus helps you understand how societies change, how governments function, and how economies grow. You study real events such as the Indian freedom movement, industrial growth, and globalisation, along with topics like agriculture, resources, and democratic institutions. The subject connects historical developments to present-day issues affecting India and the world.
The Central Board of Secondary Education divides Social Science (subject code: 087) into four parts: History, Geography, Political Science, and Economics. The board exam carries 80 marks for theory, which includes map-based questions. Schools assess 20 marks internally through project work and periodic assessments.
The following table outlines the four sections of the CBSE Class 10 Social Science syllabus and the topics covered in each part.
| List of Subjects for CBSE Class 10 Social Science | Chapters / Units | Average Marks | Important Topics & Map Work | Notes / Project included in the Social Science Syllabus |
| History (India & Contemporary World–II) | Rise of Nationalism in Europe; Nationalism in India; Making of a Global World; Age of Industrialisation; Print Culture | 20 (including map work) | – Nationalism movements, – Gandhi’s leadership, – Industrial development, global trade links. Map work includes – Congress sessions, – Satyagraha centres, – Jallianwala Bagh, – Dandi March locations | Interdisciplinary project linking historical events with geography or economic changes, such as globalisation or trade networks. |
| Geography (Contemporary India–II) | Resources and Development; Forest and Wildlife Resources; Water Resources; Agriculture; Minerals and Energy Resources; Manufacturing Industries; Lifelines of National Economy | 20 (including map work) | – Natural resource management, – Agriculture Patterns, – Conservation, – Industrial locations. Map work includes – Soil types, – Dams, – Crop regions, -Mineral Areas, – Ports, – Airports and industrial centres. | Project work related to transport networks, resource conservation, or economic activities. |
| Political Science (Democratic Politics–II) | Power Sharing; Federalism; Gender, Religion and Caste; Political Parties; Outcomes of Democracy | 20 | – Power-sharing examples from Belgium, – Sri Lanka and India, federal structure, – Role of political parties, and democratic accountability | Helps you understand how democratic institutions operate and how citizens participate in governance. |
| Economics (Understanding Economic Development) | Development; Sectors of the Indian Economy; Money and Credit; Globalisation and the Indian Economy | 20 | – Development indicators, role of agriculture/industry/services, banking systems, self-help groups, multinational companies, and global trade. | Project work may focus on consumer rights, globalisation, or sustainable development. |
Map Work and Internal Assessment: The theory paper includes map-based questions worth around 5–6 marks, mainly from History and Geography chapters. The internal assessment carries 20 marks and usually includes a project related to consumer rights, sustainable development, or globalisation, along with periodic classroom activities.
Checkout more important resources for the CBSE Exam here:
| CBSE Class 11th Syllabus | CBSE Class 12th Syllabus |
| CBSE Class 11th: All details | CBSE Class 11th Commerce Subjects |
| CBSE Class 11th Hornbill | CBSE Class 11th Commerce Books |
CBSE Class 10 Optional Language Syllabus
The CBSE Class 10 language curriculum includes Sanskrit and several regional or foreign languages offered under Group L. Students may choose these languages as Language II or as an additional language, depending on the subjects available in their school and the guidelines issued by the Central Board of Secondary Education.
Most language subjects follow the standard CBSE assessment pattern. The theory examination carries 80 marks, while internal assessment carries 20 marks. The written board examination is conducted for 3 hours.
Regional and Foreign Languages
The Central Board of Secondary Education includes several regional and foreign languages under Group L, such as Punjabi, Tamil, French, German, Arabic, Bengali, and Marathi. Schools offer these languages based on teacher availability and student demand.
Syllabus Structure for Optional Language Subjects
Although the exact chapters differ by language, the syllabus generally focuses on literature, grammar, and language skills. Students study prose and poetry lessons, practise grammar rules, and develop reading and writing abilities.
| Literature | Reading and understanding prose and poetry from prescribed textbooks |
| Grammar | Language structure, vocabulary usage, and sentence formation |
| Writing Skills | Letter writing, short compositions, and comprehension responses |
Marks Distribution for Optional Language Subjects
The table below shows the marks distribution for these optional language subjects in the CBSE Class 10 examination.
| Theory Examination | 80 marks |
| Internal Assessment | 20 marks |
| Total | 100 marks |
CBSE Class 10 Computer Applications and Information Technology Syllabus
In addition to core subjects and languages, the CBSE Class 10 curriculum also includes optional computer-related subjects. These subjects help you develop digital skills that are useful for higher studies and modern careers. Two common options are Computer Applications (Code 165) and Information Technology (Code 402). Schools usually offer them as an additional or sixth subject, depending on availability.
Computer Applications (Subject Code: 165)
Computer Applications is an academic elective offered under Group A2. This subject introduces you to basic computing concepts and the role of technology in everyday life. You learn how computer networks function, how websites are designed, and how digital technologies influence communication and information sharing.
The syllabus includes topics such as internet services, HTML web page design, cyber safety, and basic networking concepts. These lessons help you understand how digital tools and online systems work in practical situations.
| Theory Examination | 50 marks |
| Practical Examination | 50 marks |
| Total | 100 marks |
Information Technology (Subject Code: 402)
Information Technology is a skill-based subject under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF). The course focuses on practical digital skills used in offices and modern workplaces.
The syllabus includes Employability Skills, Digital Documentation (Advanced) using LibreOffice Writer, Electronic Spreadsheet (Advanced) using LibreOffice Calc, and Database Management System using LibreOffice Base. Students also learn about health, safety, and workplace practices in an IT environment.
| Theory Examination | 50 marks |
| Practical Examination | 50 marks |
| Total | 100 marks |
CBSE Class 10 Syllabus 2026-27 PDF
If you prefer keeping the syllabus handy while studying, downloading the official document can help. The syllabus PDF allows you to quickly check chapters, marks distribution, and important topics while planning your preparation. The following links provide direct access to the CBSE Class 10 syllabus PDF for each subject.
NCERT Books for CBSE Class 10
The Central Board of Secondary Education prescribes textbooks published by the National Council of Education Research and Training for Class 10. The NCERT books form the core structure material for class 10 board exam preparation. Teachers design school tests, assignments and revision work around these textbooks.
Below is the list of prescribed NCERT textbooks for CBSE Class 10 in the 2026-27 academic session.
| CBSE Class 10 Subjects | Subject Code | Prescribed Textbook(s) |
| English | 184 | 1. First Flight (Main Textbook) 2. Footprints Without Feet (Supplementary Reader) 3. Words and Expressions- II (Workbook) |
| Hindi Course-A | 002 | 1. क्षितिज भाग-2 (Kshitij Bhag-2) 2. कृतिका भाग-2 (Kritika Bhag-2) 3. स्पर्श भाग-2 (Sparsh Bhag-2-Grammar/Workbook) |
| Hindi Course-B | 085 | 1. स्पर्श भाग-2 (Sparsh Bhag-2) 2. संचयन भाग-2 (Sanchayan Bhag-2) |
| Mathematics | 041 (Standard)241 (Basic) | Mathematics Textbook for Class X |
| Science | 086 | Science Textbook for Class X |
| Social Science | 087 | 1. India and the Contemporary World- II (History) 2. Contemporary India – II (Geography) 3. Democratic Politics – II (Civics) 4. Understanding Economic Development (Economics) |
| Sanskrit | 122 | 1. शेमुषी भाग-2 (Shemushi Bhag-2) 2. अभ्यासवान् भव (Abhyasvan Bhav) or व्याकरण (Vyakarana) |
| Computer Applications (Optional) | 165 | Computer Applications (CBSE or NCERT prescribed book) |
| Information Technology (Skill Subject) | 402 | Information Technology (CBSE Skill Education book) |
CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2026-27
After reviewing the syllabus and textbooks, the next step is to understand how the CBSE Class 10 board exam is structured. The CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2026-27 explains how marks are divided between theory exams and internal assessment.
| Total Marks | 100 per subject |
| Theory Examination | 80 marks |
| Internal Assessment/Practical | 20 marks |
| Minimum Passing Marks | 33 percent |
| Duration of Exam | Most theory papers last 3 hours |
| Negative Marking | No deduction for incorrect MCQs |
Subject-Wise CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2026-27
The following table outlines the CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2026–27 with subject codes, theory marks, internal assessment weightage, and exam duration for each subject.
| Subject | Subject Code | Theory (Marks) | Internal / Practical (Marks) | Duration |
| English (Language and Literature) | 184 | 80 | 20 | 3 Hours |
| Hindi Course-A | 002 | 80 | 20 | 3 Hours |
| Hindi Course-B | 085 | 80 | 20 | 3 Hours |
| Mathematics (Standard) | 041 | 80 | 20 | 3 Hours |
| Science | 086 | 80 | 20 | 3 Hours |
| Social Science | 087 | 80 | 20 | 3 Hours |
| Computer Applications (Optional) | 165 | 50 | 50 | 2 + 2 Hours |
| Information Technology (Skill Subject) | 402 | 50 | 50 | Varies |
CBSE Class 10 Syllabus: Preparation Tips
Now that you understand the syllabus and exam pattern, the next step is to focus on how you prepare for the board exam. The CBSE Class 10 board exam checks how clearly you understand the syllabus and apply concepts in different questions.
Students who score high marks usually follow a clear study plan from the beginning of the academic year. When you complete chapters on time and revise them regularly, the CBSE Class 10 syllabus becomes easier to manage.
The preparation tips below explain how to plan your preparation step by step.
1. Get insight into the CBSE Class 10 Syllabus Structure
Start your preparation by understanding how the CBSE Class 10 syllabus and marks distribution work. Most students study five main subjects: Mathematics, Science, Social Science, English, and a second language such as Hindi. Each subject carries 80 marks in the board examination and 20 marks through internal assessment. When you know how marks are divided, you can plan your study time better and focus on both theory preparation and internal work, such as projects, practicals, and periodic tests.
2. Build a CBSE Class 10 Syllabus Completion Plan
Create a simple timeline so you can complete the syllabus without last-minute pressure. Cover about 40% of the syllabus between April and June while focusing on understanding new chapters. From July to September, finish the remaining topics so your first reading of all subjects is complete by September.
Use October and November for revision and solving NCERT exercises again. In December and January, practice sample papers and previous year questions. Reserve February and March for quick revision of formulas, diagrams, and key concepts.
3. Subject-Wise Preparation Strategy
Each subject requires a slightly different approach. In Mathematics, practice algebra, trigonometry, and geometry regularly and solve all NCERT questions. For Science, understand formulas and reactions clearly and draw labelled diagrams for Biology topics.
In Social Science, focus on cause-and-effect relationships and practice map work. For English, practice grammar and understand the themes of literature chapters. In Hindi or another second language, work on grammar, unseen passages, and poetry explanations to secure easy marks.
4. Effective Study Techniques
Using the right study methods can improve memory and save study time. Active recall means closing the book and writing down what you remember after studying a chapter. This method strengthens long-term understanding. Spaced repetition helps you retain information by revising the same topic after 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, and 21 days.
Always complete NCERT textbooks first before using reference books, because many CBSE board questions come directly from NCERT examples and exercises. You can also create mind maps to summarise chapters. These visual notes help you revise key ideas quickly before exams.
5. Implement The Three-Round Revision Strategy
Revision strengthens your preparation and improves exam performance. Start the first round of revision after finishing each chapter by reviewing your notes and solving NCERT questions again. This step helps you check whether you understand the concepts clearly.
Use November and December for the second round of revision, where you revise entire subjects and solve sample papers. The third round takes place in February and March, when you quickly revise formulas, diagrams, and important points before the board exam.
6. Practice Previous Year Question Papers
Previous year papers help you understand the actual CBSE board exam pattern and question difficulty. Start solving them after you complete around 70% of the syllabus. Aim to practice 10–15 full-length papers before the exam. Always attempt the paper under 3-hour exam conditions to improve time management. After finishing, check your answers using the CBSE marking scheme to identify mistakes and improve accuracy.
7. Sample Daily Study Timetable
A balanced daily routine helps you stay focused and avoid fatigue. Start your day with Mathematics or Science between 6:00 AM and 7:30 AM, when concentration is usually highest. Attend school or online classes from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM and use this time to take clear notes and understand new topics.
After a short rest in the afternoon, study Social Science or language subjects from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM. In the evening, practice questions or previous year papers between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM to strengthen your concepts. Spend 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM revising what you studied during the day, and use the last few minutes before bed to plan the next day’s study targets.
8. Learn How To Manage Exam Stress
Your study plan should also support your physical and mental health. Get 7–8 hours of sleep each night so your mind stays focused during study sessions. Include at least 30 minutes of physical activity or exercise to reduce stress and improve concentration.
Maintain a balanced diet with nutritious meals and limit junk food during the exam period. Try to reduce unnecessary screen time and phone usage, especially while studying, so you can stay focused on your preparation.
9. Final Pre-Exam Checklist
Before the board exam begins, review a few key points to confirm that your preparation is complete. Make sure you have finished all NCERT chapters and solved at least 10 sample papers. Revise important formulas, diagrams, and definitions to keep them fresh in your memory.
Download your admit card in advance and confirm the exam centre location to avoid last-minute confusion. Pack your stationery the night before the exam. On exam day, reach the centre at least 30 minutes before the reporting time so you can start the paper with a calm and focused mind.
How to Choose the Right Stream after CBSE Class 10th?
Your stream choice after Class 10 influences the subjects you study in Classes 11 and 12 and the careers you can pursue later. Many students feel confused at this stage because each stream leads to different opportunities. A careful decision helps you stay motivated and perform better in the next two years.
Follow these steps to choose the stream that suits your interests and strengths.
Step 1: Identify the Subjects You Enjoy
Start with the subjects you genuinely like studying. If you enjoy solving equations and understanding scientific concepts, you may feel comfortable in the Science stream. If business ideas, markets, or finance topics interest you, Commerce could suit you better. If you prefer reading, writing, and analysing social issues, Humanities may feel more engaging.
Step 2: Review Your Academic Strengths
Look at your Class 9 and Class 10 performance to see where you perform consistently well. High scores in Mathematics and Science show strong analytical skills. Strong results in language or social science subjects often indicate good reading and writing ability.
Step 3: Understand What Each Stream Includes
Learn what subjects you will study in each stream. Science usually includes Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics or Biology. Commerce focuses on Accountancy, Business Studies, and Economics. Humanities offers subjects such as History, Political Science, Geography, and Sociology.
Step 4: Connect Streams with Career Options
Your stream should keep the career paths you are interested in open. For example, Medicine requires Biology in the Science stream. Engineering requires Physics and Mathematics. Commerce prepares you for careers such as Chartered Accountancy, finance, or business management. Humanities support careers in law, civil service, journalism, and education.
Step 5: Check the Subject Options in Your School
Schools offer different subject combinations in Classes 11 and 12. Some schools allow Mathematics with Commerce, while others offer subjects such as Psychology or Computer Science as electives. Review the options available in your school before choosing a stream.
Step 6: Talk to Teachers or Career Counsellors
Teachers understand your academic strengths and can guide you toward suitable subjects. A career counsellor can explain how different streams connect to university courses and professional careers. Their advice helps you see possibilities you may not have considered.
Step 7: Make Your Decision with Confidence
Choose a stream because it suits your interests and abilities, not because your friends selected it. A thoughtful decision helps you stay focused and enjoy your studies in Classes 11 and 12. When your subjects match your strengths, preparing for future goals becomes much easier.
Preparing for the CBSE Class 10 board examination becomes easier when you follow a clear and structured study plan. Start by understanding the syllabus, complete your NCERT chapters on time, and revise each subject regularly. Consistent practice, especially through sample papers and previous year question papers, helps you improve accuracy and manage time during the exam.
FAQs on CBSE Syllabus for Class 10
Yes, the Central Board of Secondary Education uses the same syllabus and exam pattern for both regular and compartment exams. If you appear for a compartment exam, you prepare from the same NCERT chapters and syllabus prescribed for the regular board exam.
You must score at least 33% marks in each subject to pass the CBSE Class 10 board exam. This percentage includes the combined total of theory marks and internal assessment marks.
CBSE occasionally removes or reduces some topics to keep the syllabus balanced. The exact list of deleted chapters changes by session. Always check the official CBSE Mathematics syllabus PDF for the 2025-26 academic year to confirm the current topics.
Yes, NCERT textbooks form the foundation of the CBSE Class 10 syllabus. Many board exam questions come directly from NCERT examples, exercises, and diagrams. Complete all NCERT chapters and practice questions before using any reference books.
The CBSE Class 10 Mathematics syllabus is offered at two levels: Mathematics Standard (Code 041) and Mathematics Basic (Code 241). Both courses cover the same chapters and units. The difference lies in the difficulty level of the question paper. Mathematics Standard includes more application-based and analytical questions, while Mathematics Basic focuses on fundamental concepts and simpler problem-solving questions.
Students must study five main subjects in the CBSE Class 10 board examination. These usually include two languages (such as English and Hindi) and three core subjects; Mathematics, Science, and Social Science. Some schools may also offer an additional or skill subject as a sixth subject, depending on the subjects available.
A practical strategy is to complete the syllabus early and revise it multiple times before the board exam. Many students aim to finish the first reading of all subjects by September, start revision in October and November, and then focus on sample papers and previous year questions from December onwards. Regular practice from NCERT textbooks, diagrams, formulas, and map work helps strengthen preparation.
The core syllabus usually remains stable. CBSE sometimes rationalises chapters or adjusts question patterns. Always follow the latest syllabus released on the CBSE academic website for your exam year.
In most CBSE Class 10 subjects, the board exam carries 80 marks for theory. 20 marks are allotted for internal assessment, making a total of 100 marks per subject. Internal assessment may include projects, practical work, periodic tests, and notebook evaluation conducted by the school.
Start your preparation with NCERT textbooks prescribed by CBSE, as they cover the complete syllabus and follow the board exam pattern. Key books include NCERT Mathematics, NCERT Science, First Flight and Footprints Without Feet for English, NCERT History, Geography, Political Science, and Economics for Social Science, and Kshitij or Sparsh for Hindi.
The 2026–27 CBSE Class 10 syllabus continues the competency-based learning approach. Board exams now include more application-based and case-study questions. CBSE also encourages practical learning, project work, and skill subjects alongside the core academic subjects.

