Literature Preparation Strategy for CBSE Class 10 Board Exams 2026

2 minute read

Shreya Panagria

Update on 17 Dec, 2025, 07:02 PM IST

Literature is an important part of the CBSE Class 10 English paper and carries significant marks. For the CBSE Class 10 Board Exams 2026, which are expected to be conducted between February 17 and March 10, 2026, a focused strategy can help aspirants score well. Understanding the chapters, practising question types, and revising effectively are key to mastering the literature section. This article provides a clear, student-friendly preparation strategy for CBSE Class 10 students.

 

Table of Contents
  1. Understanding the CBSE Class 10 English Literature Section 2026
  2. Important CBSE Class 10 Literature Chapters and Question Weightage 2026
  3. Reading and Understanding Prose and Poetry for CBSE Class 10 Literature
  4. Practising Extract-Based and Long-Answer Questions in CBSE Class 10 Literature
  5. Learning Important Quotations and Poems for CBSE Class 10 English Literature
  6. Time Management for CBSE Class 10 Literature Revision 2026
  7. Using Sample Papers and Previous Year Questions for CBSE Class 10 Literature
  8. Final Words

 

Understanding the CBSE Class 10 English Literature Section 2026

The literature section tests comprehension, interpretation, and appreciation of prose and poetry. Questions include short answers, long answers, character sketches, theme-based questions, and extract-based questions. Familiarity with the text is essential to answer confidently.

 

Important CBSE Class 10 Literature Chapters and Question Weightage 2026

The literature syllabus usually includes a mix of prose and poems. The table below highlights important chapters and typical question types:

Chapter Type

Important Chapters

Question Focus

Prose

“The Last Lesson”, “Nelson Mandela”, “Madam Rides the Bus”

Comprehension, character sketches, theme analysis

Poetry

“Dust of Snow”, “A Tiger in the Zoo”, “No Men Are Foreign”

Explanation of lines, central idea, and poetic devices

Supplementary Reader

“Mijbil the Otter”, “The Sermon at Benares”, “Question of Trust”, The Necklace”

Story understanding, morals, character traits

Also Check: How to Write Perfect 5-Mark Answers in CBSE Class 10 Board Exams?

 

Reading and Understanding Prose and Poetry for CBSE Class 10 Literature

Students should read each chapter thoroughly to understand the plot, characters, and themes. Highlighting key points, making notes, and summarising each chapter helps in quick revision before exams.

 

Practising Extract-Based and Long-Answer Questions in CBSE Class 10 Literature

Extract-based questions often ask for an explanation of lines or stanzas. Students should practise identifying the context and meaning. For long-answer questions, structuring the answer with an introduction, points, and a conclusion improves presentation and scoring.

 

Also Check: Latest Changes in CBSE Class 10 Exam Pattern 2026 Students Must Know

 

Learning Important Quotations and Poems for CBSE Class 10 English Literature

Memorising key quotations and lines from poems helps in answering application-based questions. Understanding the meaning, the author’s perspective, and literary devices is crucial for scoring high marks.

 

Time Management for CBSE Class 10 Literature Revision 2026

Allocating fixed time for prose, poetry, and supplementary reader chapters helps cover all parts effectively. Revising each chapter multiple times increases retention and confidence.

 

Also Check: Step-by-Step Strategy to Score 90+ in CBSE Class 10 Maths Board Exam

 

Using Sample Papers and Previous Year Questions for CBSE Class 10 Literature

Solving sample papers and past board questions familiarises students with marking patterns and frequently asked questions. This practice also improves speed and reduces exam anxiety.

 

Final Words

Effective literature preparation for CBSE Class 10 requires thorough reading, structured answers, and regular revision. With board exams scheduled between February and March 2026, aspirants should focus on understanding themes, characters, and poems, while practising question types. Consistent preparation and strategic revision can lead to high scores in the literature section.

Students learning mobile

Your opinion matters to us!

Rate your experience using this page so far.

Get Started!

What are you waiting for?

Discover Your Education Journey With Us

college reviewcollege review