Common Mistakes to Avoid in the CBSE Class 10 Science Board Exam are important to understand before appearing for the paper, as many students lose marks due to small but avoidable errors. The Science board exam tests concepts, accuracy, presentation, and time management, so even minor carelessness can affect the final score.
By being aware of these common mistakes in advance, students can improve their answer writing, manage time effectively, and perform with greater confidence in the exam.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in the CBSE Class 10 Science Board Exam
CBSE Class 10 Science Board Exam, scheduled for 25 February 2026, is one of the most important academic milestones for students. Science is a subject that tests conceptual understanding, problem-solving ability, diagram skills, and presentation. Even students who prepare thoroughly can lose valuable marks due to small, avoidable mistakes. These errors are not always related to a lack of knowledge; instead, they often happen due to carelessness, poor time management, or improper exam strategy.
Understanding these common mistakes in advance can help you stay alert, organized, and confident during the exam. Below is a detailed explanation of the most frequent errors students make and how you can avoid them to maximize your score.
1. Not Reading Questions Carefull
One of the biggest mistakes in the CBSE Class 10 Science Board Exam is not reading questions properly. Many students rush to answer without understanding the instructions. Words like explain, justify, state, give reason, describe, or differentiate carry specific meanings.
For example, if a question asks you to “justify”, you must provide reasoning, not just a statement. Similarly, if it says “state”, a short and direct answer is sufficient. Misunderstanding the question can result in losing marks even if you know the correct concept.
Always:
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Read the question twice.
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Underline important keywords.
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Identify what exactly is being asked before writing.
2. Poor Time Management
Time management is extremely important in the board exam. Some students spend too much time on difficult questions and fail to complete the paper. Others write very long answers for small-mark questions, wasting valuable time.
A good strategy is:
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Start with easy questions to build confidence.
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Allocate time according to marks.
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Keep at least 10–15 minutes for revision at the end.
Practising sample papers before the exam can help you improve speed and accuracy.
3. Ignoring Units in Physics Numericals
In Physics, solving numerical problems correctly is not enough. You must also write the correct SI units. Many students forget to mention units in the final answer, which leads to loss of marks.
Always:
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Write formulas clearly.
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Show steps neatly.
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Mention the correct unit in the final answer.
Even if the calculation is correct, missing units can reduce your score.
4. Writing Unbalanced Chemical Equations
In Chemistry, balancing chemical equations is mandatory. Writing an unbalanced equation is a common mistake. Additionally, students sometimes forget to write state symbols such as (s), (l), (g), or (aq).
Before moving to the next question:
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Check whether the equation is balanced.
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Ensure state symbols are included if required.
This small step can help you avoid unnecessary mistakes.
5. Poor Diagram Presentation
Diagrams are very important in the CBSE Class 10 Science Board Exam, especially in Biology and Physics. Well-labelled diagrams can help you score full marks in certain questions.
Common diagram mistakes include:
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Drawing with a pen instead of a pencil.
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Missing labels.
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Untidy or unclear drawings.
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Incorrect positioning of parts.
To avoid these errors:
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Always use a sharp pencil.
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Draw diagrams neatly.
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Label clearly.
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Keep diagrams proportionate.
A clean diagram creates a positive impression and improves clarity.
6. Writing Answers in Long Paragraphs
Many students write long paragraphs for theory questions. However, board exam answers should be structured and clear. Writing in points makes your answer easy to read and understand.
Instead of:
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Writing everything in one paragraph,
Try:
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Using bullet points.
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Writing short, clear sentences.
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Highlighting key terms.
Good presentation improves readability and helps examiners award marks easily.
7. Leaving Questions Unattempted
Some students leave questions blank if they are unsure. This is a serious mistake. In the CBSE Class 10 Science Board Exam, even partial answers can earn marks.
If you are not fully confident:
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Write whatever relevant information you remember.
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Include keywords.
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Attempt all questions.
Never leave a question completely unanswered unless absolutely necessary.
8. Not Revising the Answer Sheet
Revision is very important. Many students finish the paper but do not check their answers.
In the last 10–15 minutes:
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Verify question numbers.
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Check units and calculations.
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Review diagrams and labels.
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Correct spelling mistakes.
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Ensure no question is missed.
This final check can prevent careless errors.
9. Starting New Topics Before the Exam
Some students try to study new chapters just before the exam. This can create confusion and increase stress. The final days before 25 February 2026 should focus only on revision.
Avoid:
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Learning new concepts.
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Starting completely new topics.
Instead:
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Revise formulas.
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Practice diagrams.
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Review important definitions.
10. Ignoring Presentation and Neatness
Presentation plays an important role in board exams. Even if your answer is correct, poor handwriting or messy presentation can make it difficult to read.
Good presentation includes:
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Clear handwriting.
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Proper spacing.
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Underlining key points.
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Neat diagrams.
A well-organised answer sheet creates a positive impression.