Time Management Strategy for 3-Hour CBSE Class 10 Science Board Exam 2026

As the CBSE Class 10 Science Board Exam 2026 is scheduled for February 25, 2026, your preparation must now focus on execution inside the exam hall. Many students know the answers but still lose marks due to poor time management.

In a 3-hour paper, managing each section wisely can easily improve your score by 5–10 marks. Below is a practical, exam-day time management strategy that will help you stay calm, complete the paper on time, and avoid careless mistakes.

How to Divide 3 Hours in the 10th Science Board Exam

Here’s how to divide the 3 Hours in the 10th Science Board Exam: 

1. First 15 Minutes – Reading Time (Most Important)

Use the reading time smartly by reading the entire question paper carefully. Identify easy, moderate, and tough questions. Mark internal choices and plan your attempt order. Do not panic if you see unfamiliar questions. Focus on the ones you know well.

2. Next 1 Hour – Attempt Section A & B (Short Answers + MCQs)

Start with questions you are 100% confident about. Attempt MCQs carefully (avoid overthinking). Write short answers in point format. Do not spend more than 1–2 minutes per MCQ. Avoid lengthy explanations for 2-mark questions

3. Next 1 Hour – Attempt Long Answer Questions (3 & 5 Marks)

This section needs structure and presentation. Write answers according to marks. Draw neat diagrams where required. Show all steps in numericals and keep answers clear and to the point. Avoid spending too much time on one 5-mark question. Move ahead and return later if needed.

4. Last 30–40 Minutes – Numericals & Revision

This phase is important before the 10th Science board exam. Recheck calculations, verify units, ensure all parts of questions are attempted. Check chemical equations and diagrams and confirm question numbers are correct

Right Order to Attempt the Science 10th Board Paper

Here’s how students must attempt the Science 10th board paper in the given order: 

1. MCQs and very short answers

2. Short answers

3. Numericals

4. Long answers

5. Final revision

This order saves time and reduces stress.

Common Time Management Mistakes You Should Avoid in CBSE 10 Science Exam

Avoid these errors in the exam hall:

• Spending too much time on one tough question

• Writing overly lengthy answers

• Ignoring revision time

• Not attempting internal choices wisely

• Rushing numericals at the end