Essential Tips to Score High in Class 12 Maths Exam

The NCERT textbook is the most crucial resource for the CBSE Class 12 Maths exam. Its importance lies in several factors:

• Direct Question Source: A significant portion of the questions in the board exam are either directly taken from the NCERT textbook or are very similar to its examples and exercises.

• Fundamental Clarity: It builds a strong conceptual foundation, which is essential for solving complex and application-based (HOTS) questions.

• Syllabus Alignment: The book is designed strictly according to the official CBSE syllabus for 2025-26, ensuring you study exactly what is required and do not waste time on irrelevant topics.

While all units are important, focusing on high-weightage units can significantly boost your score. As per the latest CBSE syllabus, the major units and their strategic importance are:

• Calculus: This is the largest and most significant unit, covering Continuity, Differentiability, Applications of Derivatives, Integrals, and Differential Equations. It holds the maximum weightage.

• Vectors and Three-Dimensional Geometry: This unit is scoring and has a substantial weightage. Questions are often formula-based and predictable.

• Algebra: Comprising Matrices and Determinants, this unit is relatively easier and offers a good return on time invested.

• Relations and Functions: This is a foundational unit for Calculus and has a good weightage on its own.

Simply reading formulas is ineffective. To truly learn and remember them, you should:

• Create a Formula Sheet: Maintain a dedicated notebook or chart paper with chapter-wise formulas. Write them down yourself, as the physical act of writing aids memory.

• Understand the Derivation: For key formulas, understanding how they are derived provides context and makes them easier to recall than rote memorisation.

• Use Active Recall: Regularly test yourself by trying to write down all formulas for a chapter from memory. This strengthens neural pathways.

• Apply Them Daily: The best way to remember a formula is to use it. Solve at least 5-10 problems daily that require the application of different formulas.

Even well-prepared students can lose marks due to silly mistakes. Here are common errors to avoid:

• Calculation Errors: Small mistakes in addition, subtraction, or signs (+/-) are very common. Double-check your calculations, especially in lengthy problems.

• Not Writing Proper Steps: CBSE awards step-wise marks. Always write down the formula used and show the key steps in your solution, even if the final answer is correct.

• Misinterpreting the Question: Read the question carefully twice. Misunderstanding what is asked, like finding the 'maximum' instead of the 'minimum', can lead to a completely wrong answer.

• Poor Time Management: Do not spend too much time on a single question. Allocate time for each section and move on if you get stuck.

Improving both speed and accuracy is a skill that develops with practice. Focus on these techniques:

• Timed Practice: Solve sample papers or sets of questions within a strict time limit. This simulates exam pressure and helps you build pace naturally.

• Master Core Concepts: A deep understanding of concepts allows you to identify the quickest, most efficient method to solve a problem.

• Neat Presentation: A clean and organised answer sheet reduces the chances of making errors while substituting values or re-checking your work.

• Mental Calculations: For simple arithmetic, practice doing calculations mentally. This saves valuable time during the exam.

Both are essential for preparation, but they serve different purposes. Previous Years' Question Papers (PYQPs) help you understand the actual exam's pattern, difficulty level, and the types of questions that have been asked repeatedly over the years. They are best for trend analysis. Sample Papers, especially those released by CBSE for the current year (2025-26), are designed to reflect the latest blueprint and marking scheme. They are best for practice, simulating exam conditions, and perfecting your time management skills.