CBSE Class X Science Exam Tips: ‘Believe in yourself to keep anxiety away’

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) class X Board exam for Science is scheduled for March 2 this year. The Science exam typically covers fundamental concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The goal is to assess students’ understanding of scientific principles and their ability to apply knowledge to solve problems. The syllabus for the exam is predefined and covers a range of topics. Students are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of the specified content.

The theory paper is an essential component of the exam. It comprises a mix of multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, and long-answer questions. This format is designed to evaluate different cognitive skills and depth of understanding. The practical exam assesses students’ practical skills, including their ability to perform experiments, record observations, and draw valid conclusions. It often includes a viva voce component where students may be questioned about the experiments they conducted.

According to Dr Upasna Chopra, HoD Science at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, “The Board exam often includes application-based questions that assess students’ ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life situations. This is designed to test their practical understanding of scientific concepts.”

She also guides students on how to manage their performance during exams along with best revision tips.

“The best revision strategy will be to make notes during the session and in exams. Practice diagrams by drawing for Biology and solving the numerical in Physics and chemical reactions in Chemistry. ⁠Many times students don’t understand the question. They might know the answer but write the wrong answer because they have not read the question carefully. They must use time given — 15 minutes — to them for reading before starting to write very fruitfully,” explains Dr Chopra.

How to tackle exam anxiety and preparation during the days in between other exams?

“In the break in between exams, students need to make a timetable as to how much time is needed which will vary from student to student, for different topics and follow it religiously,” asserts Dr Chopra.

How should one tackle the question paper a day before and during the exam?

“⁠Students should stop revising a few hours before the exam. Last-minute reading leads to anxiety. To stay calm once they have completed revision, just leave the books and believe in their preparation. This will help them remain calm,” shared Dr Chopra.

“Students should try to manage time in such a way that they have 15-20 minutes for revision of the paper where they can see whether they have left any question unanswered. Also during that time, they can underline important words,” concluded Dr Chopra.