CBSE Class 10 Maths Exam 2026: Section-Wise Preparation Tips for Basic & Standard

The CBSE Class 10 Board Exam 2026 is set to begin from 17th February 2026, and the first major paper is Mathematics both Standard (041) and Basic (241). Mathematics is one of the most crucial subjects in Class 10 as it directly impacts overall percentage and stream selection in Class 11.

Many students experience anxiety before the Maths exam due to lengthy calculations, case-study questions, and time pressure. However, with a clear understanding of the exam pattern, focused preparation, and section-wise strategy, students can score 90+ marks confidently. This article is specially designed to help students perform their best in the CBSE Class 10 Maths Exam 2026.

CBSE Class 10 Maths Exam 2026: Date & Timings

As per the schedule released by the Central Board of Secondary Education, the Class 10 board exams will begin from 17th February 2026.

Mathematics (Basic and Standard) is scheduled as the first major exam.

Exam Timings:

• Reporting Time: 10:00 AM

• Question Paper Distribution: 10:15 AM

• Exam Starts: 10:30 AM

• Exam Ends: 1:30 PM

• Total Duration: 3 Hours

Students must utilise the initial 15 minutes to read the question paper carefully.

Difference Between CBSE Class 10 Maths Basic and Standard

CBSE offers two levels of Mathematics in Class 10:

• Mathematics Standard (Code 041): This level is meant for students who wish to opt for Mathematics in Class 11 (Science or Commerce with Maths). The difficulty level is slightly higher and includes more application-based and competency questions.

• Mathematics Basic (Code 241): This level is for students who do not wish to continue Mathematics in higher classes. The concepts are the same as Standard, but the difficulty level and question framing are relatively simpler.

Important Note: The syllabus for both Basic and Standard is the same. The difference lies mainly in the complexity of questions.

CHECK: CBSE Class 10 Maths Syllabus 2025-26

CBSE Class 10 Maths Exam Pattern 2026

The theory paper carries 80 marks and is conducted for three hours. The remaining 20 marks are allotted for internal assessment.

The question paper generally includes:

• MCQs (1 mark each)

• Short answer questions (2 marks)

• Competency-based questions (3 marks)

• Long answer questions (4 and 5 marks)

• Case study-based questions

Understanding the structure is essential for effective preparation.

Exam Format: CBSE Class 10 Mathematics Standard (Code 041)

Exam Format: CBSE Class 10 Mathematics Basic (Code 241)

CHECK: CBSE Class 10 Maths Exam Pattern 2026

Section-Wise Preparation Strategy for CBSE Class 10 Maths 2026

Section A: MCQs (1 Mark Each)

This section tests conceptual clarity and quick calculation ability. Both Basic and Standard students should revise formulas daily and practice NCERT examples thoroughly. For Standard Maths, expect more application-based MCQs, while Basic Maths may include more direct concept-based questions. Accuracy is crucial in this section as there is no step marking.

Section B: 2-Mark Questions

These are short-answer questions that require proper steps. Students should write complete work even for small calculations. In Standard Maths, questions may involve multi-step reasoning, while Basic Maths questions are generally more straightforward. Regular practice of NCERT back exercises is highly recommended.

Section C: 3-Mark Questions

This section tests application and analytical ability. Chapters such as Quadratic Equations, Arithmetic Progressions, Triangles, and Trigonometry are commonly asked here.

For Standard Maths, students should prepare for higher-order thinking questions and word problems. Basic Maths students should focus on mastering fundamental applications and formula-based questions.

Section D: 4 & 5-Mark Long Answer Questions

These questions carry high weightage and require detailed step-wise solutions. Presentation plays a major role in securing full marks.

Students must:

• Show all calculations clearly

• Draw neat and labelled diagrams in Geometry

• Avoid skipping steps

• Write final answers with correct units

Chapters like Surface Areas and Volumes, Circles, Statistics, and Coordinate Geometry are often included in this section.

Standard Maths may include more complex case-study and application-based problems compared to Basic.

CHECK: CBSE Class 10 Maths Previous Year Question Papers (5+ years) for both Standard & Basic Maths 

Important Chapters to Focus On

Although all chapters are important, students should give extra attention to:

• Real Numbers

• Polynomials

• Pair of Linear Equations in Two Variables

• Quadratic Equations

• Arithmetic Progressions

• Triangles

• Trigonometric Identities

• Surface Areas and Volumes

• Statistics

Standard Maths students must practice additional competency-based questions from sample papers.

Time Management Strategy for 3-Hour Maths Paper

Effective time allocation can significantly improve performance. Students should attempt the paper in a structured manner without rushing.

A recommended approach is:

• 20–25 minutes for MCQs

• 35–40 minutes for short answer sections

• 60–70 minutes for long answer questions

• Last 20 minutes for revision

Revision time is crucial to recheck calculations, correct unit errors, and verify final answers.

Last-Minute Preparation Tips Before 17th February

As the exam approaches, students should focus on revision rather than starting new topics. Solve at least two full-length sample papers under timed conditions. Revise important formulas daily and strengthen weak areas. Ensure proper sleep before exam day to maintain concentration. Confidence, clarity, and consistent practice are the keys to scoring high in CBSE Class 10 Maths. 

CHECK: CBSE Class 10 Maths Last 10 Days Study Plan for Board Exam 2026

The CBSE Class 10 Maths Board Exam 2026, starting from 17th February, marks an important milestone for students. With Mathematics being the first major paper (both Basic and Standard), proper planning and structured preparation become even more important. By understanding the exam pattern, focusing on NCERT practice, applying section-wise strategy, and managing time effectively, students can aim for excellent scores in both Basic and Standard Mathematics. 

Stay calm, practice consistently, and enter the examination hall with confidence. With the right preparation strategy, scoring 90+ in CBSE Class 10 Maths 2026 is absolutely achievable.

Also Check:

• CBSE Class 10 Maths Sample Papers 2026 by Experts

• CBSE Class 10 Maths Important Questions (Chapter-wise) for Board Exam 2026
• CBSE Class 10 Maths Case Study Based Questions with Answers
• CBSE Class 10 Maths Assertion Reasoning Questions with Answers