How to Attempt Your 10th Board Exam Paper for Maximum Marks

How to Attempt Your 10th Board Exam Paper for Maximum Marks

Introduction

1. Read the Question Paper Carefully

2. Prioritise Easy Questions

3. Follow the Right Order

4. Manage Your Time Wisely

5. Write Answers Neatly and Presentably

6. Stick to Word Limits

7. Show All Steps in Numerical Problems

8. Attempt All Questions

9. Review Your Answers Before Submitting

10. Stay Calm and Confident

Conclusion

The 10th board exams are looming large and as students prepare for this crucial milestone in their academic journey, let us see how they can maximise their scoring potential. Performing well in the 10th board exams requires knowledge and smart exam-taking strategies. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you attempt your board exam paper effectively and maximise your marks.

1. Read the Question Paper Carefully

When you receive the question paper, use the first few minutes to read it. This will help you:

  • Understand the structure of the paper
  • Identify easy and tough questions
  • Plan which questions to answer first

Avoid rushing into writing immediately. A calm and well-thought-out approach is key. 

2. Prioritise Easy Questions 

Start with the questions you are most confident about. This will:

  • Boost your confidence early in the exam
  • Ensure that you secure marks on the questions that you are confident about
  • Save time for more challenging questions later

Leaving tough questions for later prevents you from getting stuck and wasting valuable time.

3. Follow the Right Order

Some students first attempt the longer answers or maximum score answers before attempting the objective type or less-scoring questions. Avoid doing this as examiners expect you to follow a proper sequence in the answer paper. If you have time left after attempting the entire paper, then at the end of the paper you can start writing the answers to optional questions if you know then.  The advantage of doing this is that examiners consider the highest-mark answers, so it improves your chances of scoring more. 

4. Manage Your Time Wisely

Time management is crucial. A good strategy is:

  • Allocate time based on marks: More time for long-answer questions, less for short ones
  • Keep 5-10 minutes at the end for revision
  • Avoid spending too much time on a single question

Using a wristwatch can help you track time effectively

5. Write Answers Neatly and Presentably

Presentation matters! Examiners appreciate well-structured answers. Follow these tips:

  • Underline keywords and important points
  • Use bullet points or numbering for clarity
  • Maintain good handwriting or at least write legibly to improve readability
  • Draw diagrams (if applicable) and label them properly
  • Avoid cancelling sentences or words between the answers or overwriting. 
  • If there are too many mistakes, then strike out the entire answer and rewrite it. 

A well-organised answer sheet leaves a positive impression on the examiner.

Class 10th Board Exams Preparation - Tips, Strategy, Syllabus & Resources

6. Stick to Word Limits

There are unspoken rules on the length of the answer as per the marks assigned to it. Writing too much can waste time, while writing too little may lead to lost marks. Stick to concise, relevant answers without unnecessary elaboration.

7. Show All Steps in Numerical Problems

For subjects like Mathematics and Science, always:

  • Write formulas before solving numerical problems
  • Show all steps clearly
  • Box the final answer to make it stand out

Some marks are awarded for the correct method, even if the final answer is wrong

8. Attempt All Questions

Even if you’re unsure of an answer, attempt it. Partial marks may be awarded for:

  • Writing relevant formulas, definitions, or concepts
  • Attempting step-by-step calculations
  • Making an educated guess for multiple-choice questions
  • Writing as much as you know on the topic

Leaving questions blank guarantees zero marks, so always give it a try!

9. Review Your Answers Before Submitting

When you are attempting the paper before you start, make time allocation at the end to check the paper at least once. You can take breaks between writing the exam to go back and review your answers once. However, ensure that before handing in the paper you read every answer at least once and check for - 

  • Spelling and grammar errors
  • Skipped questions
  • Recalculate numerical problems if time permits

A quick revision can help you correct mistakes and correct any silly mistakes.

10. Stay Calm and Confident

Nervousness can lead to careless mistakes. To stay calm:

  • Take deep breaths before starting the paper
  • Focus on one question at a time
  • Avoid looking at other students, concentrate on your paper

Confidence plays a big role in how effectively you attempt your paper.

Conclusion 

Scoring well in your 10th board exams is not just about studying hard but also about writing your exam smartly. By following these strategies, reading the paper carefully, managing time effectively, presenting answers neatly, and reviewing before submission, you can maximise your marks and perform your best. Good luck with your board exams, believe in yourself and give it your best shot!

About the Author
Mekhala Joshi

JAIN College

JAIN PU College, a part of the renowned JGI Group, is committed to empowering students with quality education.

Beyond academics, the college ensures its online content reflects the same standard of excellence. Every blog and article is meticulously vetted and proofread by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy, relevance, and clarity. From insightful educational topics to engaging discussions, JAIN PU College's content is crafted to inform, inspire, and add value to its readers, reflecting the institution's commitment to intellectual growth and innovation.

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