CBSE Sample Papers Official PDFs, Marking Schemes & a Practice Plan
Find the right paper, attempt it honestly and use the marking scheme to decide what to improve next.
Many students download sample papers but open the solutions before trying the questions. Others complete a paper, check only the total score and move straight to the next PDF. Neither habit explains why marks were lost.
A sample paper becomes useful when it leads to a clear next task. You may need to revise a concept, show a missing step, improve a written explanation or finish a section faster.
This guide brings together official CBSE sample-paper PDFs for common Class 10 and Class 12 subjects, marking-scheme links and a practical four-week routine. Additional subjects and languages are available through the official directories linked below.
Are CBSE Sample Papers 2026–27 Available?
Yes. CBSE's notice dated 21 September 2026 confirms that the Class X and XII papers and marking schemes are available. It also says the question-paper design and assessment pattern remain unchanged from the previous session.
Class 10 official directory
Choose the exact subject and course, including Mathematics Basic or Standard and Hindi A or B.
Open all Class 10 subjectsClass 12 official directory
Match your registered subject. Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Informatics Practices have separate entries.
Open all Class 12 subjectsSource: CBSE notification dated 21 September 2026. Check later official notices for any revision.
CBSE Sample Paper PDF Links for Class 10 and 12
SQP means Sample Question Paper. MS means Marking Scheme. Check the class, session, subject name and subject code on the first page before starting.
Showing both class directories.
Class 10 Sample Papers 2026–27
Choose your actual course before downloading. If your syllabus still needs organising, the Class 10 syllabus and study roadmap can help you plan chapter revision around paper practice.
| Subject | Question paper | Marking scheme |
|---|---|---|
| ScienceSubject code: 086 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| Mathematics StandardSubject code: 041 | SQP PDF | Find MS on CBSE |
| Mathematics BasicSubject code: 241 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| Social ScienceSubject code: 087 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| English Language and LiteratureSubject code: 184 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| Hindi ASubject code: 002 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| Hindi BSubject code: 085 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
For the Mathematics Standard marking scheme, the button opens CBSE's Class 10 directory: choose MS beside Mathematics (Standard). For English Communicative, Sanskrit and other languages, use the complete Class 10 subject list.
Class 12 Sample Papers 2026–27
Use only the subjects in your combination. The Class 12 syllabus and study plan can help balance Science, Commerce or Humanities revision with written practice.
| Subject | Question paper | Marking scheme |
|---|---|---|
| English CoreSubject code: 301 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| MathematicsSubject code: 041 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| PhysicsSubject code: 042 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| ChemistrySubject code: 043 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| BiologySubject code: 044 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| Computer ScienceSubject code: 083 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| AccountancySubject code: 055 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| Business StudiesSubject code: 054 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| EconomicsSubject code: 030 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| HistorySubject code: 027 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| GeographySubject code: 029 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
| Political ScienceSubject code: 028 | SQP PDF | Marking scheme PDF |
For Applied Mathematics, Informatics Practices, Physical Education, Psychology, Sociology and other electives or languages, open the complete Class 12 subject list.
How to save and organise the PDFs
Open the official link and use the download or save option available in your PDF viewer. Save the SQP and MS together with names that clearly identify the class, subject and session. Close the marking scheme while attempting the paper.
If a direct PDF does not load on your device, open the relevant official subject directory and select SQP or MS there. Keep the original file for reference instead of relying only on screenshots.
How to Use the CBSE Marking Scheme Properly
The marking scheme explains expected answers and the allocation of marks. Read it after your attempt, then compare the question demand with what you actually wrote.
| Resource | What to use it for |
|---|---|
| Sample question paper | Practise the format, instructions, question choices and time management. |
| Marking scheme | Check the required content and the award shown for each answer. |
| Previous-year paper | Gain more practice after checking that its content fits your current syllabus. |
| Your error log | Convert lost marks into specific revision and practice tasks. |
Check the question demand first
Identify whether the question asks you to state, explain, calculate, compare or justify. A correct fact may still be an incomplete response if the question asks for a reason or a calculation.
Follow the actual allocation
For a numerical answer, compare the method, substitutions, units and result wherever relevant. For a written answer, compare the required points and explanation. Do not invent partial marks because an answer feels close to the solution.
Solve 3x − 4 = 11.
Move the constant: 3x = 15.
Divide by 3: x = 5.
When checking a paper, compare the work you showed with that question's marking scheme. This example illustrates visible working; it does not prescribe a universal mark for each step.
Use your own words accurately
The Class 10 English Language and Literature marking scheme allows correct expression in a student's own words. That is different from changing the meaning or leaving out the answer's central point. Technical terms and subject-specific requirements still need care.
For presentation practice, the answer-sheet analysis guide can help you review structure, clarity and relevant working without turning every answer into a long paragraph.
Reference: Class 10 English Language and Literature marking scheme, general instructions. Use the scheme for your own subject when assessing an answer.
What to Practise in Different Subjects
Read the first page of each paper before starting. For example, the current Class 10 Science SQP has 39 questions, Mathematics Standard has 38, and Class 12 Physics has 33. One subject's section structure should not be assumed for another.
Maths and numerical work
Write the method clearly and check calculation errors separately from concept errors. Practise completing a solution without looking at the next line in a worked example.
Science and technical subjects
Review explanations, equations, diagrams and units as required by the question. In Computer Science, trace the code or query carefully rather than recognising a familiar-looking answer.
Languages and Humanities
Answer the specific demand, use relevant evidence and keep the response organised. For comprehension, return to the passage instead of answering only from general knowledge.
Commerce subjects
Check workings and formats in Accountancy. In Business Studies and Economics, practise connecting the concept with the situation given in the question.
Class 10 students who struggle with unfamiliar situations can use the competency-based question preparation guide for additional practice ideas. Apply the concept, explain your reasoning and check why the other options do not fit.
CBSE Sample Paper Practice Plan for Class 10 and 12
This is a suggested 28-day study routine, not an official CBSE timetable. Adjust it around your remaining syllabus and school work. If a subject is unfinished, begin with timed sections and chapter repair before using a full-paper score as a benchmark.
- Attempt Write without opening the answers.
- Check Use the matching marking scheme.
- Repair Revise the reason behind each error.
- Retest Solve the weak question type again.
| Week | Main work | Useful output |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1: establish a baseline | Attempt one full paper in a prepared subject and a timed section in a weaker subject. Check both carefully. | A first error log and a short list of weak chapters. |
| Week 2: repair and apply | Revise the identified gaps. Practise related questions and attempt papers or timed sections in two other subjects. | Corrections written without copying the solution. |
| Week 3: improve timed performance | Take two or three timed attempts across subjects, only if you can review each one properly. | A clearer record of unfinished questions, reading mistakes and repeated errors. |
| Week 4: consolidate | Revise the error log, revisit difficult question types and take a final timed check in priority subjects. | A compact revision list and a realistic plan for the next cycle. |
Keep the attempt honest
Use the duration printed on the paper and follow its instructions. Keep the answer file closed, write the complete response and record where you ran out of time. Leave room in your own time plan to review unfinished or doubtful answers.
Retake old questions for retention
Reattempting a paper can show whether you remember the corrected method. Since you have already seen it, treat the new score as a retention check rather than a fresh measure of exam readiness.
For a personalised daily schedule, use the exam countdown and revision planner with your actual school or exam dates. Reserve analysis and revision time instead of filling every available day with another test.
Sample Paper Score Review and Error Log
A total score tells you how the attempt went. The error log tells you what to do next. Give each lost mark one main reason so that you do not count the same loss twice.
Practice-paper percentage = 52 ÷ 80 × 100 = 65%.
Marks not earned = 80 − 52 = 28.
| Main reason | Marks lost | Next task |
|---|---|---|
| Concept gaps | 12 | Revise the topic and solve a short related set. |
| Incomplete working or explanation | 8 | Rewrite the answer with the required steps or points. |
| Misreading the question | 5 | Identify command words and given conditions before answering. |
| Unfinished work due to time | 3 | Practise the slow question type with a clock. |
| Total | 28 | Use these tasks to plan the next revision session. |
Calculate your practice-paper percentage
This reviews one practice paper. It does not calculate your overall board result or combine practical and internal-assessment marks.
Use the marking scheme and your error log to choose the next revision task.
Common Mistakes While Solving CBSE Sample Papers
- Choosing the wrong class, session, course or subject code.
- Opening the marking scheme whenever a question feels difficult.
- Awarding marks for an idea you intended to write but left out of the answer.
- Skipping diagrams, working or explanations that the question specifically asks for.
- Taking another paper before reviewing the previous attempt.
- Counting a familiar paper's improved score as a completely fresh test.
- Using only one sample paper to decide which syllabus topics can be ignored.
Keep the next task small and clear. For example, replace a vague note such as “improve Science” with “revise the weak concept and write five related answers without help”.
CBSE Sample Papers 2026–27 FAQs
Have the official Class 10 and Class 12 sample papers been released?
Yes. CBSE's 21 September 2026 notice confirms their availability for the 2026–27 session. Use the official class directories and subject links above.
Are these CBSE sample-paper PDFs free?
The official papers and marking schemes linked here are publicly accessible on CBSE Academic. You do not need to purchase a third-party practice book to open those official files.
Has CBSE announced a new assessment pattern through this notice?
The notice says there is no change in question-paper design and assessment pattern for 2026–27. Read your own subject paper's instructions for its format.
Should I choose Mathematics Basic or Standard, and Hindi A or B?
Use the course you are registered for in school. Match the subject name and code on the paper. Ask your teacher if you are unsure about your registered course.
Can I write an answer in my own words?
The English marking-scheme guidance allows correct own expression. Keep the meaning accurate and follow the content, terminology and format required by the actual question and subject scheme.
How many sample papers should I solve?
Choose a number you can attempt and analyse properly. Start with the four-week plan, use the error log to select priority subjects and increase practice when your review work is being completed.
Can I begin if my syllabus is incomplete?
Start with questions from completed chapters or timed sections. Use the result to find gaps, then attempt a full paper when enough of the subject is ready for a meaningful check.
Will the board examination contain the same questions?
A sample paper is a guide to practice and paper design. Prepare the current syllabus and a wider range of questions instead of depending on repetition of the sample paper.
Final Preparation Advice
Keep each official sample paper with its matching marking scheme. Attempt it under the stated conditions, check the work carefully and turn the mistakes into a short revision list.
Your next paper should test the improvements you have worked on. Build this attempt, review and repair cycle into your normal routine so that every PDF produces useful written practice.
