CBSE Class 10 Social Science Paper Pattern 2026: What Has Changed?

Central Board of Secondary Education has introduced a more structured and subject-focused format for the Class 10 Social Science Board Exam 2026, scheduled for 7 March. The revised pattern divides the 80-mark theory paper into four clearly defined sections—History, Geography, Political Science, and Economics—with each section carrying 20 marks.

The new structure is designed to improve clarity in evaluation, maintain discipline in answer writing, and ensure balanced assessment across all four components of Social Science. Students are required to divide their answer books into four separate sections and write answers strictly within the designated subject area. Mixing responses across sections may result in non-evaluation, making organized presentation essential this year.

CBSE Class 10 Social Science Revised Exam Pattern 2026

The Social Science question paper will carry 80 marks (Theory) and will be divided as follows:

Section A – History (20 marks)
Section B – Geography (20 marks)
Section C – Political Science (20 marks)
Section D – Economics (20 marks)

Total: 80 Marks (Theory) + 20 Marks (Internal Assessment)

Key Structural Changes in 2026

• Each section is subject-specific and compulsory.

• The paper includes Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), short-answer questions, long-answer questions, case-based questions, and map-based questions.

• Map-based questions continue to be part of History and Geography.

• There is no overall choice between sections, though internal choices are provided in select questions.

• Greater emphasis has been placed on structured and section-wise answering.

Important Instructions for Students

• Students must divide the answer book into four clearly labeled sections before attempting the paper.

• Answers must be written only in the space allocated for the respective section.

• Responses of one section must not be written in another section.

• If answers are mixed across sections, they will not be evaluated.

• Such errors will not be corrected during verification or re-evaluation.

Schools have been advised to ensure that students practice this structured format during Pre-Board examinations to avoid mistakes in the final Board exam. The revised pattern aims to promote clarity, discipline, and fair assessment across all four branches of Social Science.