
The CBSE Class 12 Physics Paper 2025 v/s 2026 Difficulty Level analysis is important for science students.
Physics has always been considered one of the most challenging subjects in the CBSE board exams. Even small changes in question patterns, numerical weightage, or competency-based questions can significantly impact scores.
In this detailed comparison, we break down the difficulty level, section-wise trends, numerical distribution, conceptual depth, and overall student feedback for CBSE Class 12 Physics Papers 2025 and 2026. This comparison will help you understand trends and prepare strategically.
The exam is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education and follows a structured pattern, including:
Theory paper: 70 marks
Practical exam: 30 marks
Question types: MCQs, case-based questions, short answer, long answer, and numericals
Focus on competency-based and application-oriented questions
In recent years, CBSE has been gradually shifting towards conceptual clarity and real-life application-based questions rather than direct theory recall.
The 2025 Physics paper was widely considered moderate to slightly difficult by students and teachers.
The CBSE Class 12 Physics Paper 2025 Key Highlights reflect a moderate to difficult paper with lengthy numericals, tricky assertion-reason questions, and strong conceptual focus from core units like Electrostatics and Optics. For detailed section-wise analysis and trends, check below.
Numerical-Based Questions Were Lengthy
Many students felt numericals from Electrostatics and Current Electricity required multiple steps.
Assertion-Reason Questions Were Tricky
The conceptual clarity needed was higher than expected.
Case-Study Questions Were Application-Based
Students had to interpret graphs and experimental setups.
Ray Optics and Magnetism Carried Weight
Several 3–5 mark questions were concept-heavy.
Electrostatics & Current Electricity – Moderate numericals
Magnetic Effects of Current – Conceptual
Optics – Lengthy derivations
Modern Physics – Relatively easy
Semiconductors – Direct and scoring
Time management was slightly challenging
Conceptual clarity was crucial
Direct NCERT questions were limited
The CBSE Class 12 Physics Question Paper 2025 is available for students to review and practice. Below, we have provided the complete question paper to help you understand the exam pattern, marking scheme, and important topics.
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CBSE Class 12 Physics Question Paper 2025 |
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CBSE Class 12 Physics Question Paper 2025 Set 1 |
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CBSE Class 12 Physics Question Paper 2025 Set 2 |
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CBSE Class 12 Physics Question Paper 2025 Set 3 |
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Compared to 2025, the 2026 paper was widely regarded as balanced and student-friendly.
The CBSE Class 12 Physics Paper 2026 Key Highlights indicate a balanced and NCERT-aligned paper with straightforward numericals, clearer assertion-reason questions, and predictable case studies. The overall difficulty level was moderate and student-friendly. For complete section-wise Class 12 Physics analysis and comparison, check below.
Balanced Numerical Distribution
Numericals were formula-based and less lengthy.
More Direct NCERT-Based Questions
Several theory questions were picked directly from the NCERT examples.
Reduced Assertion-Reason Complexity
Less confusing options compared to 2025.
Case Study Questions Were Predictable
Students who practiced sample papers found them manageable.
Electrostatics – Straightforward formula application
Current Electricity – Moderate numericals
Optics – Concept-based but shorter
Modern Physics – Very scoring
Communication Systems (if included) – Direct theory
Better time management
Less ambiguity in MCQs
High NCERT alignment
The CBSE Class 12 Physics Question Paper 2026 is now available. Below, we have provided the complete question paper for students to download and review. It will help you understand the exam pattern, question types, and difficulty level for better preparation and analysis.
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CBSE Class 12 Physics Question Paper 2026 |
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CBSE Class 12 Physics Question Paper 2026 Set 1 |
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CBSE Class 12 Physics Question Paper 2026 Set 2 |
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CBSE Class 12 Physics Question Paper 2026 Set 3 |
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The CBSE Class 12 Physics Paper 2025 v/s 2026 comparison highlights differences in numerical complexity, conceptual depth, NCERT alignment, and overall difficulty level. While 2025 was slightly tougher, 2026 appeared more balanced and scoring. For complete parameter-wise analysis, check below.
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CBSE Class 12 Physics Paper 2025 v/s 2026: Detailed Comparison |
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Parameter |
2025 Paper |
2026 Paper |
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Overall Difficulty |
Moderate to Difficult |
Moderate |
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Numerical Length |
Lengthy |
Balanced |
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Assertion-Reason |
Tricky |
Easier |
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Case Study |
Analytical |
Predictable |
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NCERT Direct Questions |
Limited |
High |
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Time Management |
Challenging |
Comfortable |
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Conceptual Depth |
High |
Moderate |
The Major Differences Between CBSE Class 12 Physics Paper 2025 and 2026 include variation in numerical length, assertion-reason complexity, NCERT weightage, and overall difficulty level. While 2025 was more analytical, 2026 felt balanced and student-friendly. For a detailed breakdown, check below.
1. Conceptual Intensity
The 2025 paper required a deeper understanding and multi-step problem-solving.
The 2026 paper focused more on clarity and basic application.
2. Numerical Complexity
2025 numericals were longer and required more calculation steps.
2026 numericals were formula-driven and less calculation-heavy.
3. NCERT Weightage
The 2026 paper showed stronger alignment with NCERT exercises and examples.
4. Assertion-Reason Pattern
2025 had confusing answer options, whereas 2026 simplified the logic.
CBSE is not making Physics paper easier - it is making it more concept-based and application-oriented.
The shift includes:
Competency-based questions
Real-life scenario-based case studies
Reduced rote memorization
Focus on deriving understanding
The 2026 paper reflects improved balance rather than reduced difficulty.
Note: This comparison is based on the reactions and feedback of teachers and students. It reflects their experiences and viewpoints. However, opinions can differ from person to person. Individual preferences, expectations, and learning styles may influence how each person evaluates or understands the comparison.