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Mastering CBSE Class 10 Math Board Exam 2025: A Strategic Preparation Guide for Students

The CBSE Class 10 Math exam is designed to test students' conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, and logical reasoning. With a structured study plan and strategic practice, students can maximise their marks efficiently.

February 12, 2025 / 16:13 IST
CBSE Math Board Exam 2025

Mathematics is often considered a challenging subject, but with the right approach, it can become one of the easiest to score high in. The CBSE Class 10 Math exam is designed to test students' conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, and logical reasoning. With a structured study plan and strategic practice, students can maximise their marks efficiently. This article provides a chapter-wise breakdown, tips for competency-based questions, revision strategies, and exam-day guidelines to help students ace their Math exam with confidence.

Understanding the Class 10 Math Syllabus

The Class 10 Math syllabus is divided into seven major units, covering a total of 80 marks:

  1. Number System (Real Numbers) – 6 Marks
  2. Algebra (Polynomials, Quadratic Equations, Arithmetic Progression, Linear Equations) – 20 Marks
  3. Coordinate Geometry – 6 Marks
  4. Geometry (Triangles & Circles) – 15 Marks
  5. Trigonometry & Its Applications – 12 Marks
  6. Mensuration (Areas of Circles & 3D Figures) – 10 Marks
  7. Statistics & Probability – 11 Marks

New Exam Pattern & Competency-Based Questions

The 2025 CBSE Math exam pattern will consist of:

  • 50% Competency-Based Questions (Application-based, requiring logical understanding)
  • 30% Short-Answer Questions
  • 20% Long-Answer Questions

Competency-based questions won’t be direct formula-based but will test real-life applications of concepts. Students should refer to CBSE’s official website for sample competency-based questions and practice solving them thoroughly.

Exam Essentials: What to Carry?

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free exam experience, students must be well-prepared with all the necessary materials. Carrying only the essential items can help avoid last-minute stress and allow students to focus entirely on their performance. Students should avoid unnecessary items and only bring:

  • Admit Card (Hall Ticket)
  • Transparent Pouch containing:
  • Blue ball pen
  • Pencil
  • Eraser
  • Scale
  • Sharpener

Chapter-Wise Marks Breakdown & Important Topics for Maths

1. Number System (06 Marks)

  • 1 Mark: HCF & LCM using prime factorization or relation between them
  • 2 Marks: Proof of the irrationality of a number
  • 3 Marks: Word problems based on HCF & LCM

2. Algebra (20 Marks)

Polynomials (3–4 Marks)

  • 1 Mark: Finding the number of zeros from a graph
  • 2/3 Marks: Relation between zeros and coefficients, forming quadratic equations

Pair of Linear Equations (4 Marks)
  • 1 Mark: Condition of consistency (algebraic/graphical)
  • 3 Marks: Word problems from NCERT

Quadratic Equations (6 Marks)
  • 1 Mark: Nature of roots
  • 5 Marks: Word problems (Upstream-downstream, speed-time, taps & cisterns)

Tip: Break word problems into smaller parts to frame equations step by step.

Arithmetic Progression (6 Marks)

1 Mark + 1 Mark: Finding common difference, determining if a sequence is an AP

4 Marks: Case study on sum of series or nth term

3. Coordinate Geometry (06 Marks)

  • 1 Mark + 1 Mark: Simple formula-based or assertion-reason type questions
  • 4 Marks: Case study on section formula, midpoint formula, proof of collinear points

4. Geometry (15 Marks)

Triangles (6–8 Marks)

  • 1 Mark: Finding the missing length using similarity
  • 2 Marks: Proof-based questions from NCERT
  • 5 Marks: Proof of BPT theorem or its application

Circles (7–8 Marks)
  • 1 Mark: Finding radius or angle in a circle
  • 3/4 Marks: Theorem-based questions related to tangents

5. Trigonometry & Its Applications (12 Marks)

Trigonometry (6 Marks)

  • 1 Mark: Using trigonometric ratios
  • 2 Marks: Trigonometric table values
  • 3 Marks: Proof-based trigonometric identities

Applications of Trigonometry (6 Marks)
  • 1 Mark: Finding missing length of a triangle
  • 5 Marks: Word problems (Tip: Drawing the correct figure is crucial)

6. Mensuration (10 Marks)
  • 2 Marks: Finding arc length
  • 3/5 Marks: Area of sector/segment, surface area & volume of 3D shapes
  • Combination Figures: Finding area/volume using multiple shapes

7. Statistics & Probability (11 Marks)

Statistics (6 Marks)

  • 1 Mark: Relation between mean, median, and mode
  • 5 Marks: Calculation of mean, median, mode, and solving frequency-based problems

Probability (4 Marks)
  • 1 Mark: Assertion-reason type or formula-based question
  • 3 Marks: Coin, dice, or card-based probability problems
Maximizing Exam Performance: Key Strategies for Success

The way you approach your exam can make all the difference. Rather than just answering questions, use strategic thinking to maximize your potential. By managing your time efficiently, selecting questions wisely, and sidestepping common mistakes, you can boost both your accuracy and confidence under pressure.

How to Utilize the First 15 Minutes of Reading Time: Set Yourself Up for Success

The first 15 minutes of your exam are a golden opportunity to set the stage for success. Don’t rush—take your time to carefully read every question. Identify the ones that are formula-based or straightforward, and prioritize those to build momentum. Plan ahead for optional questions and mark the tricky ones, so they don’t catch you off guard. Remember, this is your moment to strategize, not scramble.

For Tricky Questions: Tackle Challenges with Confidence

When faced with a difficult question, break it down methodically. Write down the given data and identify what you need to find. Revisit your formulas or theorems, and tackle the problem step by step. Approach each part with a calm and structured mindset, and trust that your preparation will guide you to the solution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid: Protect Your Hard-Earned Marks

The smallest errors can cost you valuable points. Avoid rushing through calculations— double-check your work to prevent simple mistakes. For 5-mark questions, never skip the diagram; it’s a vital part of your answer. Always highlight your final answers to ensure they stand out, and make sure to note the formulas or theorems you’ve used. And don’t forget to check if you’ve answered all sub-parts of each question to prevent any missed opportunities.

Final Exam Day Tips: Stay Energized, Focused, and Confident

As the exam day approaches, remember that small actions can lead to big results. Stay hydrated—water fuels your brain and keeps you sharp. Keep distractions at bay, especially from your phone, and maintain laser focus. Above all, trust in the effort you’ve put into your preparation. Approach the exam with confidence, knowing you’re ready to perform at your best.

Conclusion

A well-planned strategy, consistent practice, and smart exam techniques can help students score high marks in the CBSE Class 10 Math exam. Prepare a formula and mistakes short note for last-minute revision, review answer sheets after solving to check for missed questions, and maintain neatness and clarity in presentation.

"Mathematics is not about numbers, equations, or algorithms—it’s about understanding. Believe in yourself, trust the process, and every problem will lead you to a solution!" – Robert Collier

About Author: Naveen Kumar (IIT Madras) OCFP Faculty at Thane Campus, Orchids The International School

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