CBSE Class 10 English Language and Literature 2026 Question Paper

CBSE releases the official marking scheme for Class 10 English exam papers, which acts as the answer key.

Key points:

• The marking scheme includes answers, stepwise guidelines, and marking distribution.
• While CBSE provides the marking scheme officially, many platforms provide detailed solutions and model answers for the benefit of students.
• Always cross-reference with the official marking scheme for accurate self-evaluation.

The 2026 English board paper was of moderate difficulty overall.

Section-wise analysis:

• Reading: Moderate – mix of factual and literary passages.
• Writing: Moderate to tough – required strong format and creativity.
• Grammar: Moderate – balanced questions as per the syllabus.
• Literature: Easy to moderate – mostly direct with some challenging poetry appreciation.

The CBSE Class 10 English Language And Literature syllabus covers all language and literature skills as per the NCERT guidelines.

Main syllabus components:

• Reading Comprehension: Unseen passages (factual, literary, discursive).
• Writing Skills: Letter, article, story, notice, or diary entry.
• Grammar: Tenses, voice, narration, gap-fill, transformation.
• Literature: Prose and Poetry from 'First Flight'; lessons from 'Footprints Without Feet' (Supplementary Reader).

Solving previous year papers is highly recommended but should be combined with comprehensive study of NCERT books and practice with sample papers.

Preparation tips:

• Use previous year papers to identify important topics and exam trends.
• Attempt sample and mock papers for latest patterns.
• Revise NCERT textbooks thoroughly for literature and grammar.
• Practice writing skills according to the marking scheme for the best scores.

The 2026 question paper is divided into four sections to test different English skills.

Section-wise structure:

• Section A: Reading – 20 marks
• Section B: Writing – 30 marks
• Section C: Grammar – 20 marks
• Section D: Literature – 30 marks

The marking scheme for the 2026 English paper details how marks are awarded for each section, helping students understand examiner expectations and the latest pattern.

Key points:

• Marks given for accuracy, content, grammar, format, and creativity.
• Stepwise marking for essays, letters, or detailed responses.
• Reference the official marking scheme to align your answers accordingly.

Yes, most questions in the CBSE Class 10 English board exam are strictly aligned with the NCERT syllabus and textbooks declared for the academic year.

Important points:

• Literature and grammar questions are based on NCERT content.
• Unseen passages may be new but follow the prescribed skills and difficulty level.
• Sticking to the syllabus ensures the best preparation.

You can download the PDF solutions for the 2026 English question paper from leading education platforms such as Vedantu.

Benefits of using PDF solutions:

• Stepwise explanations for each answer.
• Helps with self-assessment and learning correct answer formats.
• Clarifies examiner marking preferences as per official CBSE patterns.

For effective preparation, start with chapter-wise practice to master each topic, then attempt full-length previous year papers for exam simulation.

Recommended sequence:

• Begin with chapter-wise exercises to strengthen individual concepts.
• Move to full-length board papers from previous years to build time management and confidence.
• Combine both for complete readiness.