Step Marking in CBSE Class 10 Science Numericals: How to Avoid Losing Marks

The CBSE Class 10 Science Board Exam 2026 is scheduled for February 25, 2026 and students must focus on smart scoring strategies. One of the most important scoring areas in Science is numerical questions, especially in Physics and Chemistry.

CBSE follows step marking, which means you can still earn marks for correct formulas, correct substitution, and proper units, even if the final calculation has a small mistake. Understanding step marking can help you save 3–5 marks easily in the 10th Science board exam.

What is Step Marking in CBSE Class 10 Science?

Step marking means marks are awarded for:

• Writing correct data (Given values)

• Choosing the correct formula

• Correct substitution

• Proper calculation

• Writing final answer with correct unit

Even if your final answer is slightly wrong due to calculation error, you can still score partial marks if your steps are correct.

Correct Format to Attempt 10th Science Numericals

Follow this structured format in every numerical:

1. Write Given: Clearly mention all values provided in the question.

2. Write Formula: State the relevant formula before substituting.

3. Substitution: Put values correctly into the formula.

4. Calculation: Solve carefully step by step.

5. Final Answer with Unit: Box your final answer and write correct unit.

This neat presentation increases your chances to score full marks.

Example of Step Marking Benefit in 10th Science 

Suppose a 3-mark numerical is asked.

Marks may be divided like this:

• 1 mark → Correct formula

• 1 mark → Correct substitution

• 1 mark → Correct final answer with unit

If your final answer is wrong but formula and substitution are correct, you can still score 2 out of 3 marks. That is why writing complete steps is extremely important.

Last-Minute Tips for CBSE 10th Science Board Exam

To avoid losing marks in numericals:

• Revise all important formulas daily

• Practice unit conversions

• Solve at least 10 numericals from each chapter

• Recheck calculations before moving ahead

• Always write units clearly

Do not rush while solving numericals in the exam hall. Accuracy matters more than speed.

10th Science Chapters Where Step Marking Is Very Important

Pay special attention to numericals from:

• Electricity

• Light (Reflection & Refraction)

• Human Eye and the Colourful World

• Chemical Reactions and Equations

• Acids, Bases and Salts

These chapters frequently include numerical-based questions in the CBSE 10th board exam.