Career: Here's how to create a study routine for CBSE board exams; these tips from toppers will come in handy..

CBSE 10th-12th Exam Preparation Tips: CBSE board exams for 2026 are starting in February. This time, several changes have been made to the exam pattern, so students must adopt a smart and disciplined routine.  Hard work alone isn't enough; proper study techniques and time management are also essential for scoring well in the board exams.

According to experts, a proper study plan and timetable are crucial for every student during board exams. Students of both 10th and 12th grades can make their preparation easier and more effective by following the right routine and smart tips. This article provides a daily routine, topper tips, and expert advice for high school and intermediate students...

How should students begin their exam preparation?
According to experts, creating a professional routine doesn't just mean making a timetable; it means balancing study time, breaks, practice, and revision. Start your day by waking up early, doing light exercise, and having breakfast. Always begin with the most challenging subject. This is when the mind is most focused and perfect for understanding new topics.

Daily Study Plan for 10th and 12th Grade Students
Wake up between 5:30 and 6:00 AM and start your day with light exercise or meditation. This refreshes both the mind and body. After this, have a light breakfast.

From 6:00 to 6:45 AM, revise the important chapters and notes studied the previous day. According to toppers, the morning is the most concentrated study time.

From 6:45 to 7:30 AM, prepare for school. Pack your school bag and mentally focus on the day's studies.

During classes at school, pay attention to all subjects. Toppers say that understanding the material in class, taking notes, and listening carefully to teachers are crucial for success in the board exams.

After returning home from school, eat a light and nutritious meal. Give your mind a rest by staying away from mobile phones and social media. From 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, focus on difficult subjects like Math, Physics, Chemistry, or Social Science. Understand new topics during this time and solve the previous year's board papers. According to toppers, practicing with time limits is essential for good results.

From 4:00 PM to 4:30 PM, take a short break. Have a light snack or water and take a short walk to refresh your mind.

From 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, revise using your self-made notes. Repeat formulas and important points frequently.

From 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM, take a light break and engage in a light activity. Do some stretching, listen to music, or do any activity that relaxes your mind.

From 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, have dinner. Eat light and nutritious food. During this time, forget about any stress, keep your mind calm, and spend time with your family.
From 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM, do some light revision and practice. At night, focus on topics that you might forget or find difficult. According to toppers, light revision at night is most effective.
From 9:30 PM to 10:00 PM, plan the chapters and topics you will study the next day.
From 10:00 PM to 10:30 PM, go to sleep. Get at least 7-8 hours of sleep so that your body and mind are completely refreshed.

10th and 12th Toppers' Tips
The experiences of 10th and 12th-grade toppers show that emphasizing understanding and consistent practice is the biggest key to success. Last year's 10th topper, Naisha Manchanda, studied with complete focus and memorized everything she studied by writing it down.

She prioritized self-study and did not rely on coaching classes. She says that neat and clean notes and frequent revision strengthen memory. Last year's Class 12 topper, Savi Jain, said in an interview that she studied for 4 to 5 hours daily and maintained a clear distribution of subjects in her timetable.

Her focus was on understanding each subject thoroughly and solving problems with confidence. She said that this strategy helped her score good marks in every subject. Both toppers say that students should focus on understanding, concentrate on concepts rather than rote learning, and revise repeatedly by making notes.

Experts' Advice
Experts say that to top the CBSE board exams, not only the quantity of study but also smart study and time management are crucial.
Dedicate one day every week to revision and do not study new topics on that day. Morning time is best for difficult subjects.
Make short notes for each chapter and highlight important answers. In Science and Social Science, draw neat and labeled diagrams.
Solving question papers from the last 10 years is also important to understand the exam pattern and time management.

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