CBSE Class 10 English Exam 2026: Section-Wise Preparation Tips to Score 90+ Marks in Board Exams

The CBSE Class 10 English Board Exam 2026 is one of the most important papers for students appearing in the board examinations. English plays a crucial role in improving overall percentage, strengthening communication skills, and boosting confidence for higher studies. Many students underestimate the subject, assuming it is easier than others, but scoring high in English requires strategic preparation, time management, and strong writing skills.

The English paper assesses reading ability, analytical skills, grammar knowledge, and creative expression. With proper section-wise planning and regular practice, students can easily aim for 90+ marks in the CBSE Class 10 English exam.

In this article, students will find detailed section-wise preparation tips, important strategies for each part of the question paper, common mistakes to avoid, and effective time management techniques to perform confidently in the board exam.

CBSE Class 10 English Exam Pattern 2026

The exam pattern is prescribed by the Central Board of Secondary Education. The theory paper carries 80 marks and is conducted for three hours, while 20 marks are allotted for internal assessment.

The question paper is divided into three major sections:

• Reading Skills

• Writing & Grammar

• Literature

Understanding the weightage and format of each section helps students prepare in a structured manner.

CHECK: CBSE Class 10 English Exam Pattern 2026

CHECK: CBSE Class 10 English Exam on 21 February 2026: Check Time Management & Exam Writing Tips for High Score

Section A: Reading Skills: How to Score Full Marks

The Reading section tests comprehension skills, interpretation ability, and vocabulary understanding. It usually includes unseen passages such as discursive and case-based passages.

To perform well in this section, students must focus on careful reading and time management. Instead of rushing through the passage, it is advisable to first read the questions and then scan the passage for relevant answers. Writing answers in clear, concise sentences and avoiding unnecessary copying from the text can help secure full marks.

Regular practice of unseen passages improves speed and comprehension accuracy. Students should also pay attention to word limits and vocabulary-based questions.

Section B: Writing & Grammar : Structure and Accuracy Matter

This section evaluates students’ ability to express ideas clearly and use correct grammar. It usually includes questions such as formal letters, analytical paragraphs, and grammar-based editing or gap-filling exercises.

In writing tasks, format is extremely important. Whether it is a formal letter or analytical paragraph, students must follow the prescribed structure carefully. The content should be relevant, logically organised, and grammatically correct.

For grammar preparation, students should revise:

• Tenses

• Subject-verb agreement

• Modals

• Reported speech

• Determiners

• Prepositions

Regular practice of editing and omission exercises can significantly improve accuracy in this section.

Section C: Literature: Focus on Themes and Value-Based Answers

The Literature section is based on the prescribed textbooks such as First Flight and Footprints Without Feet.

This section includes extract-based questions, short answer questions, and long answer questions. Students should thoroughly understand:

• Themes of each chapter

• Character sketches

• Important events

• Literary devices

• Moral or message of the story

Instead of memorising answers, students should focus on understanding the content. Answers must be written in their own words with proper explanation and textual reference where required.

For long answer questions, structure the response with a brief introduction, explanation, and conclusion. Avoid writing unnecessary content beyond the word limit.

CHECK: CBSE Class 10 Sample Paper: English (Language & Literature)

CHECK: CBSE Class 10 English Sample Papers by Experts with Solutions 2026

CHECK: CBSE Class 10 English Previous Year Question Papers (5+ years) both language & lit and Communicative

Time Management Strategy for the 3-Hour Paper

Proper time allocation is essential to attempt all questions comfortably. Students should divide their time wisely across sections and avoid spending too much time on a single question.

A balanced strategy includes completing the Reading section within the first hour, attempting Writing & Grammar in the next hour, and dedicating the final hour to Literature. Keeping 15–20 minutes at the end for revision helps correct spelling and grammatical errors.

Common Mistakes Students Must Avoid

Many students lose marks due to avoidable errors rather than lack of knowledge. Some common mistakes include:

• Ignoring format in letter writing

• Writing lengthy and irrelevant answers

• Copying directly from passages

• Poor time management

• Spelling and grammatical mistakes

Careful presentation and clarity of expression can significantly improve scores.

Last-Minute Preparation Tips Before the Exam

As the exam approaches, students should revise important formats, grammar rules, and key themes from literature chapters. Practicing sample papers under timed conditions helps build confidence. Reading chapters again for clarity and revising character sketches can strengthen answer quality.

Avoid starting new topics at the last moment. Focus on revision and maintaining confidence.

The CBSE Class 10 English Board Exam 2026 is an excellent opportunity for students to boost their overall percentage. With proper section-wise preparation, consistent writing practice, and effective time management, scoring 90+ marks is absolutely achievable.

English is not just about memorisation but about clarity, expression, and understanding. By focusing on structured answers, correct grammar, and thoughtful interpretation of literature, students can confidently excel in the board examination. Prepare smartly, practice regularly, and enter the examination hall with confidence. Success in CBSE Class 10 English 2026 is within reach.

Also Check:

CBSE Class 10 English Syllabus 2026

CBSE Class 10 English Deleted Syllabus 2026

CBSE Class 10 English Last 10 Days Study Plan for Board Exam 2026