Time management is critical for success in the CLAT 2026 exam, scheduled for December 7, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. As of December 3, 2025, candidates must focus on efficient time utilisation to complete all sections within the 2-hour window. The CLAT 2026 exam consists of five sections: English Language, Current Affairs including General Knowledge, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Techniques. Each section has different weightage, and candidates must plan their time accordingly to maximise their score.
CLAT 2026 Exam Day Time Table
The official CLAT 2026 exam day follows a strict bell schedule to ensure smooth operations. Candidates must report to the test centre by 1:30 PM. Entry into the exam hall is permitted at 1:30 PM, and the sealed question envelopes are distributed at 1:50 PM. The test commences at 2:00 PM, and candidates are not allowed to enter after 2:15 PM. The exam ends at 4:00 PM, and candidates must remain seated until the invigilator collects all answer sheets. Adhering to this schedule is mandatory for all candidates.
CLAT 2026 Section-Wise Time Allocation
The CLAT 2026 exam has a total of 120 minutes for 120 questions. The section-wise weightage is as follows:
- English Language: 22–26 questions (20% weightage)
- Current Affairs including General Knowledge: 28–32 questions (25% weightage)
- Legal Reasoning: 28–32 questions (25% weightage)
- Logical Reasoning: 28–32 questions (25% weightage)
- Quantitative Techniques: 10–14 questions (5% weightage)
Given the weightage, candidates should allocate time proportionally. For example, candidates may spend 24 minutes on English, 30 minutes each on Current Affairs, Legal Reasoning, and Logical Reasoning, and 12 minutes on Quantitative Techniques. This allocation ensures that high-weight sections are prioritised without neglecting any part of the paper.
Also Check: CLAT 2026: How To Attempt the Paper Section-Wise on 7 December
Step-by-Step CLAT 2026 Time Management Tips
These CLAT 2026 time management tips focus on reading instructions, following fixed time slots, tracking time, and prioritising high-weight sections. Regular mock test practice helps improve speed and accuracy. Staying calm, skipping difficult questions, and returning to them later ensures better control and balanced performance during the exam.
1. Read Instructions Carefully: Before starting, candidates must read the instructions thoroughly to avoid mistakes and understand the marking scheme. The CLAT 2026 exam has a marking scheme of +1 for correct answers and -0.25 for incorrect answers. Unattempted questions do not attract negative marks.
2. Stick to Pre-Planned Time Slots: Candidates should follow their pre-planned time slots for each section. Sticking to the schedule helps in covering all sections and prevents last-minute panic. If a section is completed early, the saved time can be used for revision or tackling difficult questions.
3. Keep Track of Time: Regularly check the clock to ensure that the time plan is being followed. Avoid spending too much time on a single question. If a question seems difficult, skip it and move on. Return to skipped questions if time permits.
4. Prioritize High-Weight Sections: Given the weightage, candidates should prioritise the Current Affairs, Legal Reasoning, and Logical Reasoning sections. These sections carry 25% weight each and can significantly impact the overall score. The English Language should not be neglected, as it forms 20% of the paper.
5. Practice with Mock Tests: Mock tests are essential for mastering time management. Candidates should practice with timed CLAT 2026 mock tests to get accustomed to the pressure and improve speed and accuracy. Analysing mock test results helps in identifying weak areas and refining the time management strategy.
6. Stay Calm and Composed: Staying calm and composed during the exam is crucial. Techniques like deep breathing can help candidates stay focused and manage stress. Panic can lead to poor time management and mistakes.
7. Skip and Return: If a question is too difficult or time-consuming, candidates should skip it and move on. Returning to skipped questions later, if time permits, can help in maximising the score without wasting valuable time.
Also Check: How to Prepare for CLAT 2026 with Class 12 Board Exams?
Conclusion
Effective time management on the CLAT 2026 exam day is essential for maximising accuracy and score. By following a structured time allocation plan, prioritising high-weight sections, and practising with mock tests, candidates can perform at their best. Staying calm and composed, keeping track of time, and adhering to the official exam schedule are key to success in the CLAT 2026 exam.
