NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English Chapter 8 Believe in Yourself (Poem) 2026-27

Reflect and Respond (Page 245)

I. Imagine that you are the person in the image.

Question 1.
What emotions do you feel standing at the base of a difficult task?

Answer:
Standing before a difficult task may make me feel nervous, unsure, and slightly afraid. At the same time, remaining in my comfort zone may feel safer and easier.

Question 2.
What might make you take the first step?

Answer:
Believing in my abilities and wanting to improve myself would encourage me to take the first step despite my fears.

II. Think about a time when you had to face a challenge.

Question 1.
What was it, and how did you feel at the start of the journey?

Answer:
During my school’s annual function, my class teacher asked me to give the welcome speech. Although my classmates were happily preparing for different performances, I was nervous about speaking in front of everyone. I felt hesitant and worried that I might make mistakes.

Question 2.
How did you feel once you made the decision to move forward?

Answer:
Once I decided to accept the opportunity, I felt more confident. I began practising the speech regularly and realised that stepping beyond my comfort zone could help me grow. The experience taught me that self-belief and preparation can turn fear into confidence.

III. What does the phrase ‘believe in yourself’ mean to you? Write some words or phrases you associate with believing in yourself.

Answer:
For me, ‘believe in yourself’ means trusting my abilities even when the result is uncertain. I associate it with self-confidence, courage, resilience, inner strength, determination, self-trust, and the willingness to keep improving.

IV. Select the correct meaning of ‘status quo’ based on the given sentence.

Even though some kids wanted to try new activities, most of them were happy with the status quo and didn’t want any changes.

1. A plan to make things more exciting.

2. A situation to keep things the same.

3. A decision where everything is completely different.

4. A choice to change things quickly without thinking.

Answer:
2. A situation to keep things the same.

Check Your Understanding (Pages 247-249)

I. Based on your understanding of the poem, select the correct central idea for each stanza from the options given.

Stanza 1

(i) Facing challenges requires personal responsibility and a clear focus on one’s future.
(ii) Facing challenges is a journey best taken with support and guidance from others.

Answer:
(i) Facing challenges requires personal responsibility and a clear focus on one’s future.

Stanza 2

(i) Fear and uncertainty make it difficult to make choices as the future approaches.
(ii) Facing the future with confidence makes choices more straightforward.

Answer:
(i) Fear and uncertainty make it difficult to make choices as the future approaches.

Stanza 3

(i) Personal growth involves finding balance between comfort and change.
(ii) Personal growth requires leaving behind comfort and embracing change.

Answer:
(ii) Personal growth requires leaving behind comfort and embracing change.

Stanza 4

(i) The first step towards change may feel easy if you place your trust in others to guide you and provide support.
(ii) The first step towards change is difficult, but having self-belief and confidence helps you stay on track.

Answer:
(ii) The first step towards change is difficult, but having self-belief and confidence helps you stay on track.

II. Rhyme Scheme

Fill in the blank to complete the following sentence.

The poem follows a simple, yet effective rhyme scheme __________ that flows steadily through each stanza.

Answer:
ABCB

III. Tone

State whether the following statements are true or false.

1. The overall tone of the poem is motivational and encouraging.

Answer:
True

Reason:
The poem encourages readers to face difficulties with courage, trust their abilities, and confidently take the first step towards their goals.

2. The tone shifts from thoughtful in the beginning to one of determination by the end of the poem.

Answer:
True

Reason:
The poem initially encourages reflection about fear and difficult choices, but gradually moves towards confidence, action, and determination.

IV. Speaker

Fill in the blanks with the correct options from those given in the brackets.

The speaker in this poem is not distant; rather, he/she comes across as a __________ (stranger/ guide) who understands the struggle and is encouraging the reader to take __________ (interest in/control of) his/her own future.
The use of direct address ‘You’ creates a close connection, as though the speaker is __________ (talking directly to the reader) addressing the reader from a distance)

Answer:

1. guide

2. control of

3. talking directly to the reader

V. Imagery

Match the phrases from the poem in Column 1 with the imagery they represent in Column 2. An extra representation is given.

Answer:

VI. Symbolism: Select the words/phrases from the box below to complete the given sentences.

1. Comfort and the status quo represent __________ and fear of change, symbolising the comfort zone that holds one back.

Answer:
stagnation

2. The future symbolises the __________ , the potential for change and success that lies ahead but requires __________ to step into.

Answer:
unknown, leap of faith

3. The first step symbolises the initial __________ required to begin the journey of __________ or personal development.

Answer:
courage, self-improvement

VII. Metaphor

The poet uses a metaphor in the line, ‘The first step is the hardest’. Explain why this is metaphorical.

Answer:
The phrase “The first step is the hardest” does not refer literally to walking. The “first step” represents beginning a new challenge, making a difficult decision, or moving towards personal growth. It highlights how starting something unfamiliar can be harder than continuing once confidence develops. Thus, the poet compares beginning a challenge with taking a physical step without using “like” or “as”.

VIII. The poem uses antithesis in a couple of lines.

Antithesis is a rhetorical device that pairs contrasting or opposite ideas in a parallel grammatical structure to highlight differences or create emphasis. It simplifies complex ideas through contrast, making them easier for readers or listeners to understand.

Consider the famous quote from Neil Armstrong when he stepped onto the moon.

“Setting foot on the moon may be a small step for a man, but a giant leap for mankind.”

Here, the antithesis lies in contrasting the ‘small step’ for an individual with a ‘giant leap’ for all humanity. The parallel structure of the two phrases highlights the incredible significance of this event, presenting it as both a personal and massive achievement.

Other Examples:

• Speech is silver, but silence is gold.

• Patience is bitter, but it has a sweet fruit.

• Man proposes, God disposes.

Identify the lines from the poem that show antithesis and explain why it is so.

Answer:
The lines “Will it pull you forward” and “Or push you back in fear” demonstrate antithesis because they present opposite ideas. The words “pull” and “push,” as well as “forward” and “back,” create a clear contrast. Through this opposition, the poet highlights the choice between moving ahead towards a goal and allowing fear to hold us back.

Critical Reflection (Pages 250-251)

I. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.

1. Step up to the challenge
There is no crowd to see,
It’s just you and the future.
And where you want to be.

(i) What does the line, ‘There is no crowd to see’ suggest about facing challenges?

Answer:
It suggests that facing a challenge is a personal responsibility. We must make the effort for our own growth even when nobody is watching, praising, or encouraging us.

(ii) Complete the following suitably.
The line ‘It’s just you and the future’ suggests that __________ .

Answer:
our future depends greatly on the choices we make and the actions we take.

(iii) Fill in the blank with the appropriate word/ phrase from the extract.
Latha will __________ her efforts to improve her vocal performance by practicing harder each day.

Answer:
step up to the challenge

(iv) Select the most suitable title for the extract.

A. The Struggles of Change
B. Facing the Future Alone
C. A Journey of Growth
D. The Power of Fear

Answer:
C. A Journey of Growth

(v) Complete the analogy by using a word from the extract.
achieve: goal:: face: __________

Answer:
challenge

II. Answer the following questions

Question 1.
What is the significance of the metaphor, ‘The first step is the hardest’ in the context of personal growth?

Answer:
The metaphor suggests that beginning a new journey is often the most difficult part of personal growth. The first step requires us to leave our comfort zone, overcome hesitation, and face uncertainty. Once we overcome this initial fear, continuing towards our goal becomes easier.

Question 2.
What does the antithesis in the poem convey about the nature of personal development?

Answer:
The antithesis between being “pulled forward” and “pushed back in fear” shows that personal growth involves a choice. We can either move towards our goals or allow fear to prevent progress. The poem therefore presents growth as something that requires courage and conscious effort.

Question 3.
Do you think the poet’s message is realistic in the context of real-world struggles?
(Clue: Evaluate whether simply ‘believing in yourself’ is enough to overcome obstacles or other factors are also necessary.)

Answer:
(Suggestive answer) The poet’s message is realistic to some extent. Self-belief gives us the courage to begin and continue despite difficulties, but it may not be enough on its own. Hard work, proper planning, available resources, guidance, and support from others can also be important. Therefore, self-belief can provide the motivation, while consistent effort helps turn goals into reality.

Question 4.
Consider a situation where you or someone you know had to take a difficult first step towards a goal. How does the poem’s message about the importance of self-belief apply to this situation?

Answer:
(Suggestive answer) My classmate Aditya was nervous about speaking in the school assembly. He usually avoided such opportunities because he feared making mistakes in front of others. Later, he decided to participate in a debate competition and began practising regularly. His decision to participate was the difficult first step. With self-belief and preparation, he gradually became more confident. His experience reflects the poem’s message that trusting ourselves can help us move beyond fear.

Vocabulary in Context (Pages 251-253)

I. The phrase ‘status quo’ is a Latin expression that translates to ‘the state in which’ or ‘the existing state of affairs.’ Over time, it has become a popular English term for the current situation or condition, especially when things remain unchanged.

There are other Latin terms commonly used in English.
Read a few below along with their meanings.

Now, fill in the blanks in the given sentences with the Latin expressions used in English from the table.

(i) I enjoy reading fantasy books, __________ Harry Potter and Magical Paint Brush.

Answer:
e.g. (exempli gratia)

(ii) After helping Tanya with the homework, Ritu asked for a __________ to borrow her notes next time.

Answer:
quid pro quo (a favour given in return for something)

(iii) I love all kinds of outdoor activities, such as trekking, hiking, biking, __________ .

Answer:
etc. (et cetera)

(iv) The park is not very special __________ ; it becomes more fun when you visit with friends.

Answer:
per se (by itself, fundamentally)

(v) We created an __________ team to organise the school festival.

Answer:
ad hoc (for a specific purpose, often temporary)

(vi) The movie started __________ , with the hero already fighting the villain in a huge battle.

Answer:
in media res (into the middle of something)

II. The line, ‘Will it pull you forward/or push you back in fear?’ is a rhetorical question.

A rhetorical question is a question that doesn’t require an answer because it is used to make the reader think or reflect on a particular idea.

Question 1.
Read the following rhetorical questions and state what they intend to achieve.

(i) Isn’t it obvious that we must act now? Don’t we all have a responsibility to make a change?

Answer:
These questions emphasise the need for immediate action and encourage readers to recognise their responsibility towards creating positive change.

(ii) Will we let fear control us, or will we rise above it?

Answer:
This question encourages readers to examine their fears and choose courage instead of allowing fear to control their decisions.

Question 2.
Match the situations in Column 1 to the rhetorical questions in Column 2.

Answer:

Listen and Respond (Page 253)

I. You will listen to a conversation between two friends. As you listen, answer the following questions in one to three exact words that you hear. (Transcript for teacher on page 275)

Question 1.
How did the boy feel before the play?

Answer:
Nervous

Question 2.
According to the girl, where does confidence come from?

Answer:
Self-belief.

Question 3.
What was the girl finally sure about regarding the boy?

Answer:
Believe in yourself.

II. You will once again listen to the conversation. As you listen, select the four true statements from 1-7 given below.

1. The boy feels confident but is worried about freezing on stage.

Answer:
False

Reason:
The boy feels nervous and is worried that he may forget his lines while performing on stage.

2. The girl encourages the boy to push through his doubts by trusting in his preparation.

Answer:
True

Reason:
The girl motivates him to trust his preparation and believe in himself instead of giving in to his doubts.

3. The boy thinks that the audience will be supportive regardless of his performance.

Answer:
False

Reason:
The boy fears that the audience may notice his mistakes and laugh at him if he forgets his lines.

4. The girl believes that self-doubt is a normal part of preparing for a big performance.

Answer:
True

Reason:
She explains that feeling nervous or doubtful before an important event is normal, even when a person has prepared well.

5. The boy feels that his preparation is not enough and doubts his abilities, even though he has practiced.

Answer:
True

Reason:
Although he has practised, the boy remains nervous and questions whether he is sufficiently prepared.

6. The girl suggests that the boy should avoid feeling nervous and perform perfectly.

Answer:
False

Reason:
Instead of demanding perfection, the girl reassures him and encourages him to trust his preparation and give his best.

7. The girl believes that pushing through nervousness will help the boy grow and build confidence.

Answer:
True

Reason:
She encourages him not to let nervousness stop him, showing that facing such feelings can strengthen confidence and help him move towards his goals.

Speaking Activity (Pages 254-255)

I. Work in pairs. Read the three Sayings/ Proverbs given below. For each one, think of a real-life situation where it could apply. Do the suggested role-play and use the Saying/ Proverb.

Remember:

• Before diving into a real-life situation, briefly explain the meaning of the saying.

• Describe the situation in the following way-

• Introduction: Briefly explain the saying.

• Situation/Example: Share a personal story or relate the saying to something familiar.

• Conclusion: Reflect on what the saying teaches or what you learned from the experience.

• For the role-play, work in pairs to create the dialogues first and then enact them. Take turns to choose your sayings/proverbs.

Sayings/Proverbs

1. Don’t judge a book by its cover.

• Situation to consider: Have you ever misjudged someone based on their appearance or first impression? What happened?

• Role-play: One student acts as someone who judges others based on their looks or first impressions. The other student plays someone who shows the true personality after a deeper conversation, proving that appearances can be deceptive.

Answer:
Proverb: Don’t judge a book by its cover

Introduction:
This proverb reminds us that appearance or a first impression does not reveal everything about a person. We should know someone better before forming an opinion.

Situation:
One student assumes that a quiet-looking classmate is not intelligent. After speaking with her, the student discovers that she is friendly and performs very well academically.

Role-Play Dialogues

• Neha: I don’t think the new girl in our class is smart. She looks so quiet and simple.

• Pooja: Don’t say that, Neha.

• Neha: Why not? I can tell just by looking at her.

• Pooja: Haven’t you heard the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover”?

• Neha: What does that mean?

• Pooja: It means we shouldn’t judge people only by how they look.

• Neha: Really?

• Pooja: Yes. I talked to her today. She’s very friendly and good at studies.

• Neha: Oh! Then I was wrong.

• Pooja: See, looks can be misleading.

• Neha: I’ll talk to her and get to know her better.

Conclusion:
The proverb teaches us to look beyond appearances and understand people before judging them.

2. Actions speak louder than words.

• Situation to consider: Think of a time when someone’s actions proved more valuable than their words.

• Role-play: One student talks about how they will improve their grades, and the other shows how they actually put in the effort. Compare the impact of talking versus doing.

Answer:
Proverb: Actions speak louder than words

Introduction:
This proverb means that our actions demonstrate our intentions more clearly than our promises. Real effort is more meaningful than simply talking about what we plan to do.

Situation:
One student repeatedly promises to improve their grades but does not study. Another student quietly follows a study routine and works consistently.

Role-Play Dialogue

• Arjun: From tomorrow, I’ll study hard and get good marks.

• Mani: That’s nice. But what did you study today?

• Arjun: Nothing today. I’ll start from tomorrow.

• Mani: You always say that but never do it.

• Arjun: I’m serious this time.

• Mani: Remember the saying, “Actions speak louder than words.”

• Arjun: What does that mean?

• Mani: It means what you do is more important than what you say.

• Arjun: So, I should start studying now?

• Mani: Yes. If you really want good marks, begin working for it.

• Arjun: You’re right. I’ll start studying now.

Conclusion:
The proverb shows that genuine effort matters more than promises. Our actions should support what we say.

3. When the going gets tough, the tough get going.

• Situation to consider: Can you think of a time when you faced a difficult challenge but didn’t give up?

• Role-play: One student plays someone who is giving up on a tough school project, while the other encourages that student to keep going. Show how perseverance leads to success despite difficulties.

Answer:
Introduction:
This proverb means that determined people become more persistent when they encounter difficulties. Instead of giving up, they continue working towards their goals.

Situation:
Two students are completing a difficult school project. One becomes frustrated and considers quitting, while the other encourages them to continue and solve the work step by step.

Role-Play Dialogue

• Riya: I’m really tired of this project. It’s too hard. I think I should stop working on it.

• Aman: Don’t say that, Riya. We’ve already finished half of it.

• Riya: But nothing is going right. I don’t understand this topic anymore.

• Aman: This is the time to be strong. Remember the saying, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”

• Riya: What does that mean?

• Aman: It means when problems come, strong people don’t quit. They try harder.

• Riya: But I feel like giving up.

• Aman: Let’s take a short break and then start again. We can solve it step by step.

• Riya: Do you really think we can finish it?

• Aman: Yes, if we stay calm and keep working. We’ve handled tough tasks before too.

• Riya: Okay, let’s try again together.

• Aman: That’s the spirit! We’ll complete this project.

Conclusion:
The proverb encourages us to remain determined during difficult situations. Patience, effort, and perseverance can help us overcome challenges.

Writing Task (Pages 255-256)

Speech Writing is the art of preparing a structured, impactful piece of spoken communication for an audience. Unlike essays or letters, a speech is meant to be heard, not just read, so it must be clear, engaging, and easy to follow.

Key Features of a Good Speech

• Clear structure: Introduction, Body, Conclusion.

• Audience awareness: Language and tone suited to listeners.

• Purpose-driven: Informative, persuasive, or entertaining.

• Simple language: Easy to understand when spoken aloud.

• Engagement: Rhetorical questions, anecdotes, or quotes.

• Memorable ending: Leaves a lasting impression.

I. Your class is conducting the morning assembly. You have been asked to deliver a speech on the topic, ‘Turning Challenges into Opportunities’. Draft this speech by following the guidelines given below.

• Opening paragraph: Greet the audience and introduce yourself. Begin with a quotation, a question, or a surprising fact. State the purpose of your speech and provide an overview of what you will be talking about.

• Paragraphs 2 and 3-Body of the speech: Divide the body of your speech into two paragraphs, each focusing on a different main point or idea. Use transition words, anecdotes, statistics, and other supporting evidence to strengthen your points.

• Concluding paragraph: Summarise the main points of your speech. End with a statement that leaves a lasting impression on the audience and convey your thanks.

• Use formal language to present ideas clearly.

• Use a persuasive tone-don’t you agree…/…, isn’t it?

Refer to the guidelines given below.

• Consider how challenges can lead to new learning experiences, growth, or unexpected benefits.

• Why do you think people often feel scared or anxious when faced with change?

• How can change open doors to new opportunities?
  Can you think of an example from your own life or someone you know?

• What are some strategies or attitudes you can adopt to approach change with a positive mindset?

• Think about how facing challenges builds skills, determination, and confidence, all of which are essential for success.

Answer:
(Suggestive answer)

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Good morning, respected Principal, teachers, and my dear friends.

“Difficulties in life are meant to make us better, not bitter.” Have you ever wondered why some challenges make us stronger? My name is Anaya, and I am a student of Class 9. Today, I would like to speak about how challenges can become opportunities for learning, growth, and success.

To begin with, challenges teach us to think differently and develop useful skills. When we face difficulties, we learn to find solutions, work harder, and become more patient. For instance, struggling with a difficult subject may encourage us to practise more, seek help, and understand the topic better. In this way, challenges can strengthen both our abilities and confidence.

Change can also introduce us to opportunities that we may not have expected. People often feel anxious about change because it takes them away from familiar situations. However, a new experience can help us discover our strengths. When I moved to a new school, I initially felt nervous, but eventually I made new friends, explored new activities, and became more confident.

To conclude, challenges should not always be viewed as barriers. They can teach us important lessons, develop our determination, and help us discover our potential. So, instead of fearing change, let us face it with courage and a positive attitude. Every challenge can be the beginning of a new opportunity.

Thank you.

Learning Beyond the Text (Pages 256-257)

I. Explore the stories of Indian leaders who faced significant challenges and turned them into opportunities for success.

For example:

1. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar

• At school, Ambedkar suffered untold humiliations and discrimination, but he never gave up.

• It was for sheer grit, hard work, and perseverance that he went on to study Politics and Economics.

• His self-motivation proved to be a life-changing event not only for him but also for the nation. He is known as a great jurist, economist, and social reformer.

• He rose to become the Chairperson of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution of India.

2. Lal Bahadur Shastri

• He endured many hardships throughout his life. His father passed away when he was just a year and a half old, leaving the family in financial distress.

• Despite the challenges, he remained committed to his education, often walking several miles barefoot to attend school, even in extreme weather.

• After graduating from Kashi Vidyapeeth in Varanasi, he was honoured with the title “Shastri,” meaning scholar.

• Deeply involved in India’s freedom movement, Shastri was imprisoned multiple times alongside other freedom fighters for his active participation. Following India’s independence, he dedicated himself to the progress and unity of the nation.

• Through unwavering determination and sincere efforts, Lal Bahadur Shastri rose to become the Prime Minister of India, leaving a legacy of humility, service, and patriotism.

3. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

• Kalam’s family faced financial difficulties, which made it hard for them to support his education fully. To help with his school expenses, Kalam took on a job delivering newspapers early in the morning. He would wake up before dawn, distribute newspapers across the town, and then head to school.

• This job was more than just a way to earn money; it was a valuable learning experience for Kalam. Through this work, he learnt the importance of hard work, perseverance, and managing responsibilities. It also gave him a sense of independence and taught him the value of hard work.

• He was a renowned scientist, also known as the ‘Missile Man of India’. He rose to become the 11th President of India.

• Now, find out about such personalities from your village, town, city, or state and present their success stories in class.

Answer:
(Suggestive answer)

Here are two inspiring personalities whose difficult circumstances did not prevent them from achieving remarkable success. Their journeys show how determination, discipline, and continued effort can help a person turn difficulties into opportunities.

Munshi Premchand

Munshi Premchand, whose real name was Dhanpat Rai, was born in Lamhi near Varanasi. He experienced financial difficulties and lost his parents at a young age. These hardships made his early life challenging, but they did not stop him from pursuing his interests.

He later became one of India’s most respected literary figures. His stories and novels portrayed ordinary people, farmers, and disadvantaged sections of society with realism and sensitivity. Through his writing, he also highlighted social problems and encouraged readers to think about injustice. His life demonstrates how difficult experiences can become a source of understanding, creativity, and social contribution.

Major Dhyan Chand

Major Dhyan Chand was born in Prayagraj and became famous as the “Wizard of Hockey.” During his early years in the Indian Army, he had limited opportunities and often practised hockey at night under moonlight. Despite these restrictions, he remained committed to improving his skills.

His discipline and dedication eventually helped him achieve extraordinary success. He played a major role in India’s three Olympic gold-medal victories in hockey. His remarkable control and sporting ability earned him international recognition. Major Dhyan Chand continues to inspire young people to pursue their goals with determination, discipline, and perseverance.

Key Takeaways from Vedantu’s Class 9 English Kaveri Chapter 8 Believe in Yourself

Believe in Yourself highlights self-belief, courage, and the importance of taking the first step when facing challenges. The poem encourages students to move beyond their comfort zone, overcome fear, and take responsibility for their goals with confidence, preparation, and persistence. 

These Class 9 English Chapter 8 question answers help students understand the poem’s message, literary devices, and real-life applications. Students can use the Class 9 English Kaveri Chapter 8 solutions for focused revision and refer to the Believe in Yourself Class 9 summary to quickly recall its central ideas before exams.

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