CBSE Class 12th 2026: Syllabus | Exam Pattern | Marking Scheme

The CBSE Class 12th Board Exams aren’t just a test of knowledge; they are a pivotal milestone in your academic journey. Strong performance here can unlock doors to prestigious universities and set the foundation for your dream career. We understand the pressure that comes with this, but remember, the key to conquering these exams lies in smart, strategic preparation.

It all starts with one crucial step: knowing your battlefield. Understanding the revised syllabus, the weightage of each chapter, and the exam pattern is like having a detailed map before a long journey.

This comprehensive guide is designed to be your first and most important resource for the CBSE Class 12th Board Exams 2026. We’ve broken down the syllabus, exam pattern, and marking scheme for all core subjects to help you create a winning study plan.

Key Changes & Highlights for CBSE Class 12th 2026:

• The syllabus is expected to remain largely consistent with the 2024-25 academic year, but students should always check the official CBSE website for any circulars.
• The focus continues to shift from rote learning to competency-based questions that test application, analysis, and critical thinking.
• The exam pattern emphasizes a mix of question types: MCQ, Assertion-Reason, Case-Based, and Descriptive.

Subject-Wise Breakdown: Syllabus, Weightage, and Strategy

Here is a detailed look at the core subjects. Use this information to prioritize your topics and allocate your study time effectively.

1. English Core:

The English exam tests your comprehension, writing skills, and understanding of literature. It’s scoring if you focus on format and practice.

• Total Marks: 100 (Theory: 80, Internal Assessment: 20)
• Best Strategy: Master the format for writing section (letters, notices, reports). Read the literature texts thoroughly and practice previous years’ questions.

Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme (Theory):

2. Mathematics:

A subject that requires consistent practice. Understanding the weightage helps you focus on high-mark chapters like Calculus.

• Total Marks: 100 (Theory: 80, Internal Assessment: 20)
• Best Strategy: Devote maximum time to Calculus (35 marks). Practice derivations and problem-solving daily.

Unit-Wise Weightage (Theory):

3. Physics:

Conceptual clarity and application are key. Pay close attention to derivations and diagrams.

• Total Marks: 100 (Theory: 70, Practical: 30)
• Best Strategy: Electrostatics, Current Electricity, and Optics are high-weightage units. Practice numerical problems and circuit diagrams.

Unit-Wise Weightage (Theory):

4. Chemistry:

A blend of theory (Organic, Inorganic) and numerical (Physical Chemistry). Regular revision is crucial.

• Total Marks: 100 (Theory: 70, Practical: 30)
• Best Strategy: Focus on named reactions in Organic Chemistry and processes in Inorganic Chemistry. Practice numericals from Electrochemistry and Chemical Kinetics.

Unit-Wise Weightage (Theory):

5. Biology

Focus on diagrams, definitions, and understanding processes. NCERT textbook is your bible.

• Total Marks: 100 (Theory: 70, Practical: 30)
• Best Strategy: Genetics (20 marks) is the most important unit. Practice drawing and labeling diagrams for all major processes.

Unit-Wise Weightage (Theory):

Preparation Tips from ALLEN Overseas:

1. Analyze: For each subject, look at the unit-wise weightage table. Identify the chapters that carry the highest marks.
2. Prioritize: Schedule more study hours for high-weightage topics. For example, in Maths, give Calculus top priority.
3. Understand the Pattern: Look at the typology of questions (Remembering, Applying, Analyzing). This tells you how you will be tested. Practice accordingly.
4. Plan for Practicals: Don’t ignore the 30-mark practical exams. They can significantly boost your overall percentage. Start your project work early.
5. Download Official Syllabus: Use the links provided to download the latest syllabus PDFs from the official CBSE website for the most accurate information.

Pro Tip: Solve the CBSE Previous Years’ Question Papers and Sample Papers to understand the exact pattern and difficulty level.

Remember, success in the Class 12 boards is a marathon, not a sprint. Start early, plan strategically using this guide, and focus on consistent, focused study.

Official Website: For the most accurate and updated information, always refer to the official CBSE website (www.cbse.gov.in).

Wishing you all the very best for your preparations! You’ve got this!