CBSE Class 10 Sample Papers English for 2026 Exams

Home

Author at PW

October 09, 2025

CBSE Class 10 Sample Papers English

The CBSE Class 10 English exam is one of the most important subjects in the board curriculum, testing a student’s command over language, grammar, and literature. As per the latest pattern for the 2026 exams, the question paper will be distributed at 10:15 a.m., and students will get 15 minutes (10:15 to 10:30 a.m.) to read it carefully before writing. The paper will carry 80 marks, and students must complete it within three hours.

It is essential to understand that the question paper consists of 11 questions, each with multiple parts covering Reading, Writing, Grammar, and Literature. Every student must write the serial number of the question in the answer sheet before attempting it.

To perform well, practising the CBSE Class 10 sample papers is crucial. These papers give students a clear idea of the latest exam format, marking scheme, and types of questions expected. They also help boost confidence and improve time management skills, two vital aspects for scoring high marks in the final exam. Get the CBSE Class 10 Sample Papers English for 2026 Exams from the article here.

CBSE Class 10 English Exam Pattern 2026

The CBSE Class 10 English Language and Literature paper follows a well-structured format that tests reading comprehension, creative writing, grammar, and understanding of literary texts. The total marks are 80 for the written exam and 20 for the internal assessment. Here’s the section-wise breakdown of marks as per the latest pattern:

CBSE Class 10 Sample Papers English Exam Pattern
Section	Type of Questions	Marks
Section A – Reading Skills	Two passages based on comprehension, interpretation, and inference	20 marks
Section B – Writing & Grammar	Letter writing, analytical paragraph, editing, omission, gap filling	20 marks
Section C – Literature (NCERT Books Class 10 – First Flight & Footprints Without Feet)	Extract-based questions, short and long answer questions	40 marks
Internal Assessment	Listening & Speaking skills, portfolio, periodic test	20 marks
Total		80 marks

Time Allotment and Instructions:-

The paper is distributed at 10:15 a.m.
Students get 15 minutes of reading time (10:15–10:30 a.m.) to go through the questions.
Writing starts at 10:30 a.m. and ends at 1:30 p.m.
Serial numbers of questions must be written clearly before answers.
The question paper contains 11 questions in total.

Check Out: CBSE Class 10 Books

Importance of CBSE Class 10 English Sample Papers

Practising CBSE Class 10 English sample papers can make preparing for the exam easier. English has different parts: Reading, Writing, Grammar, and Literature. Each part needs a different kind of practice.

Reading questions need careful understanding, Writing needs clear expression, Grammar needs practice with rules, and Literature needs remembering stories, poems, and answers.
When you solve sample papers, you start to see how the exam is set. You also learn how much time to spend on each question so you don’t get stuck.
Writing letters, paragraphs, and answers to literature questions regularly helps you write more clearly and confidently.
Sample papers also show which areas you are weak in, like grammar or comprehension, so you know what to focus on.
Since the questions are based on the NCERT Class 10 books, practising them keeps you focused on what is actually in the exam.

Tips to Score 90+ in CBSE Class 10 English Exam 2026

Scoring 90+ in the CBSE Class 10 English exam is possible if you prepare well, manage your time, and present your answers clearly. English is a subject where students can score high marks by writing clearly, keeping ideas simple, and using correct grammar. Here are some useful tips to help you do well in the 2026 English board exam:

1. Read the Question Paper Carefully

Before writing, spend the first 15 minutes (10:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.) reading the whole question paper. This small step is often overlooked but can really help.

Go through both reading comprehension passages and pick the easier questions first.
Check the writing section to see which letter or paragraph topic you know well.
In literature questions, mark the extracts or questions from chapters you remember best.

2. Attempt the Easy Questions First

Starting with easier questions helps you avoid getting stuck and saves time for the harder ones.

Answering familiar questions first boosts confidence.
You secure marks quickly before moving to longer sections.
Keeps your mind calm and focused.
You get more time later for analytical writing or literature answers.
Begin with Reading and Grammar, then move to Writing and Literature.

3. Maintain Neatness and Presentation

How you write matters. Even if answers are correct, messy handwriting can affect marks.

Write neatly with blue or black ink.
Leave one line between answers.
Underline key phrases or words in literature answers.
Write question numbers clearly.
Plan your answers before writing; avoid cutting or overwriting too much.

4. Practice Regularly from the NCERT Books Class 10

First Flight and Footprints Without Feet are the main books for your English syllabus. Most questions in the exam come directly from them.

Read each chapter and poem carefully to understand the theme and characters.
Mark important lines, quotes, and lessons for quick revision.
Write short summaries and practice answers for each chapter.
Solve extract-based questions from sample papers related to the NCERT.

Check Out: CBSE Class 10 Question Banks

5. Strengthen Grammar and Vocabulary

Grammar may seem easy, but it adds marks in the grammar and writing sections. Good grammar makes answers correct and easy to read.

Practise editing, omission, and sentence rearrangement exercises daily.
Keep a notebook for new words and phrases from reading.
Write one paragraph or a letter daily to practise sentences.
Revise basic grammar rules like tenses, modals, subject-verb agreement, and prepositions.
Use NCERT grammar exercises and worksheets from sample papers.

6. Focus on Literature Understanding and Analysis

Literature carries 40 marks, making it very important. Understanding the meaning and emotions helps you answer confidently in your own words.

Read all prose and poetry lessons from First Flight and Footprints Without Feet.
Make notes on characters, themes, and morals for each story.
Practise extract-based questions often to get used to analysing answers.
In long answers, write short introductions, organised points, and clear conclusions.