This study will be done by PARAKH. This will take place at the end of March 2026 and will assess the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) competencies among students completing Grade 3. Inputs from this study will then further give an insight into what is working, what needs to be improved and the changes that need to be done in terms of policy and frameworks. This will also guide the implementation of new teaching pedagogies, and interventions to strengthen early learning.

What is the Foundational Learning Study 2026?

FLS is a nationwide assessment to evaluate whether students have developed the necessary basic literacy and numeracy skills as expected by the end of Grade 3. There will be two key areas that will be in focus for the study.

1. Foundational Literacy: This includes basic reading, comprehension and language skills.
2. Foundational Numeracy: This includes number sense, arithmetic understanding and problem-solving ability.

For students to grow up with strong foundational learning skills, they will have less difficulty in coping with different subjects as they move on to higher classes. With a weak base, they will have trouble understanding in later grades. This is the reason national education initiatives prioritise a strong emphasis on monitoring at the foundational stage. The assessment will be carried out by PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development) under the guidance of NCERT.

Why is FLS 2026 important?

The Foundational Learning Study will help the Indian Government to understand the success of foundational learning programmes across the country. The evidence-based study will provide important insights for future planning. This assessment will help to:

1. Identify learning gaps in reading and mathematics
2. Support better planning for early grade education
3. Design targeted learning interventions

Strengthen teaching practices in primary classes

What is changing in FLS 2026?

Although, the most striking change in the study this year is the shift from paper-based assessment to tablet based digital platform. This will greatly improve the quality and speed of the assessment process. This also shows that there is an increased use of digital tools in educational evaluation procedures and studies. Many of the advantages to be provided by this method include:

1. Increased accuracy of data, as everything will be digital
2. Analysis and release of reports would be faster
3. Manual errors due to loss of files and handwriting errors would significantly reduce

Large-scale assessment would be conducted more efficiently.

What is the scale of the foundational learning study 2026?

The FLS will be conducted on a national level, i.e. across the country. According to CBSE,

• More than 10,000 schools will participate
• Over 1,00,000 students will be assessed
• The study will cover 776 districts

Participation will span 36 States and Union Territories

What role will the schools have in the study?

The selected schools will play a critical role in ensuring that the assessment process is conducted without any delays or issues. However, for this to happen, CBSE has requested the leaders of affiliated schools for the following:

• The schools should remain open and operational on the given assessment dates.
• Assessment teams visiting the school for study should be provided with full cooperation.

Administration of the assessment will be managed by the same teams and will require the support of the teachers.

How The Study Will Be Coordinated

FLS will involve collaboration between various educational institutions and government bodies. These institutions will ensure smooth implementation and is carried out   At the national level. Technical guidance will be provided by PARAKH at NCERT. At the state and district levels, coordination will be handled by agencies including:

• Samagra Shiksha
• State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERTs)
• State Institutes of Education (SIEs)
• District Institutes of Education and Training (DIETs)

District Education Offices

What will happen after the study is done?

Once the study is finished, the results will be analysed. These results will then provide valuable evidence for improving foundational education in the country. Furthermore clearer insights will be made available to the educators and policy makers to understand where additional support is needed, which strategies are working well and how different programs can be improved for teachers and students.

FAQs

Q. What is FLS 2026?

Ans. FLS stands for Foundational Learning Study 2026.

Q. Who will conduct FLS?
Ans. PARAKH will conduct this study across schools nationwide.

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Schools today are realising the importance of mental health and are actively making social emotional learning a part of their curriculum. This is an important part of schools supporting the students. In this high pressure and competitive world fueled by social media, students are more prone to issues related to mental health. They need to learn to cope with stress and also to share their feelings in case they feel overwhelmed. For this to happen, thy need a safe space and supportive environment.

Recognising this need, the Central Board of Secondary Education has released a circular focusing on Mental Health and Wellness and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in schools. The circular asks schools to take clear steps to support students’ psychological well-being and build stronger systems for early support and guidance.  This comes following the judgement given by the Supreme Court of India on July 25, 2025. It specified the guidelines pertaining to student mental health and safety. CBSE has requested all affiliate schools to follow the directions.

Why Mental Health and Social Emotional Learning Are Important in Schools

Effects of a students’ mental health are many. It affects the way students learn, interact and respond to challenges. On the other hand, when they feel emotionally safe, they engage in activities more, build a healthy relationships and deal with study stress in a better way.

Social emotional Learning (SEL) help them develop critical life skills and schools play an important role in helping students develop a positive sense of self and managing their emotions. Some of them are:

• Understanding emotions and managing them
• Creating positive, healthy relationships with those around them
• Taking safe and responsible decisions in every aspect of their life
• Coping strategies in times of stress and failure

Mandatory Mental Health Training for School Staff

Circular released by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) clearly mandates regular training for all teaching, non-teaching and administrative staff. They are required to undergo mandatory training twice a year conducted by a certified mental health professional. The aim of this training would be to teach the teachers to understand how to identify and respond to students in times of emotional or psychological issues. Areas would include:

• Psychological first aid
• Identification of warning signs of distress
• Responding to situations related to self-harm
• Referral mechanisms for professional support

Teachers would be trained to interact with students in a sensitive, inclusive and non-discriminatory manner. This will enable the adults of the school to be prepared to notice early signs of distress and then respond in an appropriate way.

Schools Must Organise Mental Health Awareness Programmes for Parents

The circular highlights that parents and guardians must also be involved in supporting student mental health.

Schools are required to organise regular sensitisation programmes for parents and guardians. These programmes should help families understand the challenges students face and how they can offer better support at home. These sessions will guide parents to:

• Avoid placing unnecessary academic pressure on children
• Recognise signs of psychological distress
• Respond to children with empathy and support

By involving parents, schools can ensure that students receive consistent emotional support both at school and at home.

Mental Health and Life Skills to Be Integrated into Student Programmes

The schools are also encouraged to include mental health awareness into everyday learning and school activities. Some the modules that they can introduce via student orientation programmes and curricular activities as they will help them understand their feelings, build resilience and know where to look for help when things get difficult:

• Mental health literacy
• Emotional regulation skills
• Life skills education
• Awareness of institutional support systems available to students

Schools Must Maintain Records of Wellness Initiatives

• For monitoring and accountability, CBSE has asked schools to maintain anonymous records of all the student welfare activities, initiatives related to their social emotional wellbeing. Annual report will need to be submitted mentioning:
  The number of wellness interventions conducted
• Student referrals for counselling or support
• Training sessions organised for staff
• Mental health related programmes and activities held during the year

These records will help schools track the effectiveness of their efforts and strengthen support systems over time.

The Role of School Leaders and Teachers

The circular concludes by urging principals and school heads to actively support these initiatives. Schools must ensure that teachers and staff participate in the recommended training programmes.

The larger goal is to build a school ecosystem that prioritises mental health and enables every student to grow with confidence and resilience.

For teachers, this circular highlights an important shift in education. Supporting students today means paying attention not only to what they learn but also to how they feel, cope with challenges, and build their sense of self.

When schools give equal importance to academic learning and emotional well-being, students are better prepared to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

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Why is the CBSE inter-generational programme important?

Many things have changed over the years, some for the better and some for the worse. Family dynamics have also gone through a major change. For better job opportunities, people moved from their native places to different cities. Where living in joint families was the norm, families now consist of parents and their kids. Children visit their grandparents during vacations or during the time of festivals, and even then, as they grow up, extra classes, exams, or co-curricular activities take priority. Taking note of the growing distance, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has recently issued a circular encouraging schools to promote the connection between senior citizens and students. This follows the recommendations given by the National Council of Senior Citizens and has been communicated through the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The message is simple – bring generations closer together and remind children of the value of people, the knowledge and experience that the older generation carries.

The Generation Gap

It is rightly said that time is a thief. In families, grandchildren and grandparents hardly spend time together owing to the distance between cities, busy schedules, and many other reasons. This means that children without listening to the stories, the wisdom and memories of older generations. This brings about a sense of loneliness for many senior citizens. Their experiences and memories often remain unheard. Schools can play a big role in connecting the two generations. They can create spaces where senior citizens and students can talk, share experiences and feel connected.

Why it matters for students?

Parents read stories with moral values and try to instil in them. What they forget is that children learn best through relationships and actions. Spending time with grandparents or other senior citizens teaches them patience, resilience and life experience in a real way. These are things which are otherwise difficult to understand for children. A grandparent sharing stories about their childhood, about a different time in the country, or about challenges they faced can leave a deeper impression than any classroom lecture. These conversations help students understand respect, gratitude, and empathy. They also help children appreciate family bonds and the importance of caring for elders.

CBSE suggested activities for schools

In the circular released by CBSE, the Board has suggested a few activities that schools can organise for intergenerational bonding between the students and senior citizens. The activities are simple and can be easily modified as needed. Schools are also encouraged to find other creative ways to encourage this bond.

1. Inviting grandparents to  school celebrations

Many events happen during the academic year where parents are invited to attend, like national and commemorative occasions such as Independence Day, Bal Diwas, International Day of Older Persons, etc.

Schools can also organise special events on Grandparents Day. For many children, seeing their grandparents welcomed and respected at school can be a proud and emotional moment. For grandparents, it can be equally special to see the world their grandchildren learn and grow in. These can include:

• Cultural performance by students

• Grandparents sharing stories

• Simple games that can be played in teams or individually

2. Walkathons with Grandparents

Another suggested activity is walkathons. This is a fancy name for ‘A walk with grandparents’. It may seem simple, but it gives the perfect opportunity for the two generations. Walking side by side allows generations to connect without pressure or formality. At the same time, it encourages healthy activity and community participation.

Respect and Dignity

For this initiative to be successful, schools should conduct these activities in a respectful and inclusive manner. CBSE has emphasised this consistently so that senior citizens feel comfortable and valued during these events. Thoughtful planning, proper seating, easy access, and support from staff can make a big difference. Schools should also keep a note of these activities and keep the relevant authorities and keep them updated.

What will CBSE inter-generational bonding activities do?

Parents and schools often consider academic success to be the most important factor in education. Education in the true sense is beyond academics. It is also about learning to treat others with respect and kindness. Through the CBSE initiative for inter-generational bonding, schools will understand the importance of emotional learning. When children listen to their elders, ask questions, and spend time with them, they learn something deeper than facts or formulas. They learn humanity. And sometimes, a simple conversation between a grandparent and a child can become a memory both will carry for years.

Read all CBSE notifications here –> CBSE

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What is CBSE On-Screen Marking (OSM)?

OSM is the process of evaluating answer sheets digitally. The answer sheets will be scanned and uploaded on a secure platform that can be accessed by specific people. Examiners will assess these digital copies on the computer and enter the marks obtained on the same platform. The examiners will not check physical answer sheets for CBSE Class 12 students, whereas for Class 10, board examiners will check only physical copies.

Why On-Screen Marking (OSM) Matters in CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026

CBSE has listed many benefits of introducing OSM. Furthermore the list of benefits is as follows:

1. Reduce errors related to totaling of marks

2. Faster evaluation through wider participation of teachers across affiliated schools
3. Automated coordination, reducing manual intervention and the scope for mistakes
4. Teachers remain in schools and carry on with regular duties as they need to check answer sheets on the computer
5. Save time and cost on transportation as answer sheets need not be sent to different locations
6. No need for post-result verification of marks

7. Reduced manpower for verification-related work
8. Opportunity for all affiliated schools, nationally and globally, to contribute to the evaluation process
9. Involvement of teachers from CBSE-affiliated schools globally
10. Environment-friendly digital evaluation

Infrastructure Requirement for Schools for OSM

To make the process smooth for on-screen marking in CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026, schools are required to have certain infrastructure ready.

1. A dedicated computer lab with Public Static IP (as per Affiliation Bye-Laws)
2. A laptop or a PC with Windows OS 8 or above, minimum 4 GB RAM and at least 1 GB free space on C:/ drive
3. The latest version of Chrome, Edge, Internet Explorer or Firefox browser
4. Adobe Reader, which can be downloaded from Adobe’s website
5. Reliable internet connectivity witha minimum of 2 Mbps

Uninterrupted supply of electricity

What Does OSM Mean for Teachers?

This is a new change introduced right before the CBSE 2026 Board Exams. CBSE is committed to providing full support to teachers to make this change easier.

1. Teachers with OASIS IDs will be given access to familiarise themselves with the platform by logging in to the system. They are requested to practice many times to avoid any trouble on the day of the evaluation.
2. Multiple dry runs will be conducted by CBSE so that teachers get enough practice.
3. A call centre will be established to help with issue resolution.
4. Instructional videos will also be provided so that teachers can view them whenever they get stuck on the platform.
5. CBSE will monitor the activities of teachers during log-in and practice sessions. However, they can practice as many times as they need.

What Does it Mean for the Principals?

School principals have to ensure that teachers of classes 11 and 12 complete these activities as directed by CBSE. A dashboard will also be made available to monitor and track:

• Total number of teachers of Classes XI and XII whose details are updated on the OASIS portal
• Number of teachers who have completed the OSM practice
• Number of teachers yet to participate

What Does OSM Mean for Class 12 Students?

The change from physical checking of answer sheets to on-screen marking (OSM) in the CBSE Class 12 Exams 2026 will be beneficial for students in many ways.

1. There will be fewer mistakes in totalling, hence fewer evaluation errors.
2. Since the evaluation will be faster, results will be posted earlier.
3. Earlier results will help them with competitive exams and admissions to different programs.
4. This will also increase transparency in the marks allotted.

Final Words

CBSE Class 12 OSM is a new initiative to increase transparency, efficiency and ease of checking answer sheets. CBSE has made it easier for teachers to correct answer scripts without leaving their school. Furthermore, they can carry on with their regular school duties.

OSM is part of broader assessment initiatives that CBSE is bringing to change the way students learn and teachers evaluate for a more transparent evaluation while reducing the burden on teachers.

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YUVA AI for All: AI Basics for Everybody

Technology is an integral part of our lives. It is everywhere, from the phones we use to the smart boards in classrooms to the TVs we have at home. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an important part of how things work. For many, AI seems like a complex idea with vague understanding of what it is and how it works. That is changing with a new effort by the Government of India called YUVA AI for All. The name might sound long, but it stands for Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI. This is a national program launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) under the National AI Literacy Campaign – IndiaAI Mission and was launched on 12 January 2026. Its main goal is simple: to make basic AI learning free and easy for every person in our country, especially students, young professionals and anyone curious to learn something new.

What is YUVA AI for All?

YUVA AI for All is a free AI Literacy program by the Govt. of India that imparts foundational AI knowledge. To undertake the course, it is not necessary to have technical knowledge, a background or coding skills. Curiosity is all it takes. The course will help people to grasp a clear understanding of AI, where it is used and how it is used. This is important because AI tools are becoming increasingly common in all spheres of life. The Govt. of India has made it easy to learn about AI so that you don’t have to spend hours browsing the internet for good learning sources.

Why this AI literacy programme matters for India

AI is shaping jobs, services, and how we create and share information. However, if only a small section of society understands it, the gap between people who can use technology and those who cannot will keep growing.

The IndiaAI Mission is trying to prevent that by offering a free AI course in India. The government is making sure students in schools, young learners, and even adults with no technical background can understand what AI is and how it affects them. This is not about turning everyone into programmers; it is about awareness. When people understand AI basics, they can use tools more wisely and avoid misuse.

Important details of the IndiaAI Free Course

It is important to know the details of the program. Before you search ‘Is YUVA AI for All certificate free?, know that it is absolutely free for all.

• Course Name: YUVA AI for All
• Full Form of YUVA AI: Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI
• Course Fee: Completely free under the government initiative
• Duration: Around 4.5 to 5 hours
• Mode: Self-paced, online
• Certificate: Government-recognised certificate after completion

Where to register: Available on platforms like FutureSkills Prime, DIKSHA, iGOT Karmayogi, and TCS iON

What you learn in the course

The government designed this course for all who wish to learn about AI without needing technical knowledge. The language is simple and clearly explains the basics in an easy-to-understand way.

It begins by explaining what Artificial Intelligence? From there, you learn how AI systems work in basic terms, especially how they learn from data and patterns. The course also shows how AI is used in real life, including areas like education, creativity, and public services. This makes the learning feel connected to everyday experiences rather than abstract theory.

A very important module of the program is responsible AI learning where learners are encouraged to use AI fairly, keeping in mind safety and ethical use of AI tools. This helps people use AI thoughtfully. By the end, you understand how AI may influence future careers and opportunities, which is especially useful for school and college students.

How to register for YUVA AI for All course

Many people search “How to register for YUVA AI for All course”. The process is simple:

1. Visit an official learning platform such as FutureSkills Prime, iGOT Karmayogi, or TCS iON
2. Search for YUVA AI for All
3. Create a free account or log in
4. Enrol in the course
5. Complete the modules and quizzes to earn your certificate

Since it is self-paced, you can learn anytime, from your phone or computer.

Who should take this course?

The YUVA AI for All course for school students is especially useful for Classes 8 to 12, but it does not stop there. College students, working professionals, teachers, and even parents who want to understand what their children are learning can benefit. If you have ever felt curious about AI but unsure where to begin, this is a comfortable starting point.

FAQs

What is the full form of YUVA AI?
Full form of YUVA is Youth for Unnati and Vikas with AI.

Is YUVA AI for All free?
Yes, the Government of India offers the course free of cost under its initiative.”

Is the YUVA AI for All certificate valid?
Yes, you receive a government recognised certificate after completing the course.

How long does the YUVA AI course take?
Around 4.5 to 5 hours, and you can do it at your own pace.

The post What is YUVA AI for All? appeared first on AASOKA.

Instead of academic coaching, this support focuses on helping students manage exam stress, stay balanced and feel confident while studying.

What Support is Available

CBSE’s counselling support has three parts: a helpline that is open around the clock, weekday tele-counselling with trained counsellors, and online resources on the CBSE website.

1. 24×7 Toll-Free Counselling Helpline: 1800-11-8004

The board has launched a toll-free CBSE free counselling helpline that students and parents can call any time, day or night. The helpline works in Hindi and English, and you don’t need a counsellor on the line to use it. The phone system gives guidance on:

• ways to prepare for exams without feeling overwhelmed
• managing time across subjects
• answers to common questions students ask during exam preparation
• where to find important CBSE contact numbers

Moreover, this service can be accessed at anytime during the day or night. Which means that students can call whenever they feel stuck or anxious. This is especially helpful when stress peaks late in the evening or early morning.

2. Weekday Counselling Calls

In addition to the helpline, CBSE has arranged tele-counselling on weekdays:

• Days: Monday to Friday
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Both students and parents can have a direct conversation with trained professionals. This panel comprises school principals, counsellors who work in schools, special educators and qualified psychologists. A total of 73 counsellors are available with 61 of them from India who understand the importance of such exams and others are from places like Nepal, Japan, Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

Whatever the issue may be, be it exam stress, anxiety,or stress about revision, talking to a counsellor helps. They provide simple and practical suggestions that can help students feel calm and in control. The best part is that parents can also be a part of these conversations. This helps them support their child in ways that feel right for their situation.

3. Online Resources on Stress and Exam Preparation

For many students, exams = stress. Some students talk about it with their friends, family or teachers and many keep it all to themselves. Knowing how difficult these things can get, CBSE has shared some simple materials online as part of CBSE Psycho-Social Counselling during exams. It covers things like handling stress, planning revision, and looking after your emotional health while studying.

Go through the resources one by one when you feel like you need help. Try suggestions you feel will be helpful to you. Come back later if something feels useful. Even small changes like studying properly for a while and then actually taking a break can make long days feel less draining.

Why This Support Matters

From a counsellor’s point of view, exams are not only about preparation. They are also about how students are coping with stress. Stress can affect sleep, mood, and focus. Students often overwhelm themselves with strict schedules that do not allow for breaks or intense studying sessions, and once that happens, they think that they are not studying well. For them, it would be wise to understand that a calm mind helps them to focus better and retain information better too. Although, it can become easy to feel that the solutions provided by counsellors are magic solutions. They are small supports or ways to organise your day, reminders to pause, and encouragement to talk about what’s bothering you instead of keeping quiet.

Many students feel lighter just after one honest conversation. Parents, too, feel unsure at this time. They want to help but don’t always know how. Guidance helps them stay patient and supportive instead of reacting out of worry.

How Students and Parents Can Use CBSE Psycho-Social Counselling

Save the helpline number
Keep 1800-11-8004 saved. When things feel too much, speaking to someone can help you become grounded.

Use the counselling hours if needed
Stress often does not go away, and starts to affect sleep, concentration and memory. It becomes important that one talks to a counsellor. They will help in making things manageable

Keep talking at home
this is a time when both students and parents feel stressed out and on edge. Students should not feel they have to hide their stress for the fear of being judged or scolded by their parents. Parents should try to listen calmly, even if they don’t have all the answers right away.

Exams are important, but they are only one part of a student’s life. Marks matter, but well-being matters more in the long run. If stress feels heavy, reaching out for support is a sensible step. CBSE’s counselling services are there so students and parents don’t have to handle everything on their own.

The post CBSE Psycho-Social Counselling 2026 for Class 10 and 12 Students appeared first on AASOKA.

What does AI education from class 3 mean

The future hasn’t arrived with a bang. It has arrived quietly, through a curriculum update. The Department of School Education and Literacy under the Ministry of Education has confirmed that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computational Thinking will be introduced from Class 3 onwards beginning from the academic session of 2026-27. This major decision has been taken keeping in mind the goals and aim set forward by the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 (NCFSE).

The announcement comes as a surprise to many. Teaching AI to eight-year-olds raises obvious questions. Isn’t it too early? Will children be staring at screens all day? And most important of them all, are schools really ready to teach AI? The goal is not about pushing technology into classrooms. It is about helping children understand the world they are already growing up in.

Why is AI being introduced in Class 3?

According to the Ministry, AI should be considered a basic and universal skill. It should be treated like any other subject that children learn about their surroundings through subjects such as The World Around Us. Simply put, students need to understand how it works and how it affects people before using it. Computational Thinking has a big role to play here as well. It teaches children how to break a problem into steps, notice patterns, and think logically. These are life skills and not tricks that children can learn from each other. Irrespective of the stream a student chooses later on, be it science, commerce, arts, or vocational paths, this is an important habit for them to have. This approach also fits closely with NEP 2020, which places strong emphasis on real understanding instead of memorisation.

What will children actually learn in Class 3?

For many, AI education means knowing coding or complex softwares. This is nothing but a big misconception. The curriculum will introduce children to AI, help them understand what it is.  For example, understanding that AI can recognise patterns or make suggestions, but it does not think, feel, or decide like humans.

Computational Thinking will focus on basics such as sequencing, recognising patterns, and simple logic. Ethical understanding will also be introduced early. The idea of “AI for Public Good” will help children see technology as something that should help people and society, not harm them.

Importantly, the Ministry has stressed unplugged learning. Many AI concepts can be taught through games, puzzles, storytelling, and classroom activities without screens. This will ensure that schools with limited digital infrastructure are not left behind.

What schools need to prepare for

For schools, the challenge is not only about devices or internet access. Planning matters more. The Ministry has indicated that teaching and learning materials like handbooks and digital content will be prepared by December 2025. This will give schools time to prepare their teachers and classrooms. They will have to figure out a way to include this alongside other subjects, as well as how to balance screen time with regular classroom work. Clear policies will be important for this to be successful, as AI should support learning, not dominate it.

How the teacher’s role changes

Teachers are central to this transition. They are not expected to become experts on AI overnight. To support the transition, teacher training will be provided to all teachers through NISHTHA modules and video-based learning. The emphasis is on helping teachers shift from being information providers to learning facilitators. AI tools may support lesson planning, but teachers will remain in control of assessment and feedback.

Addressing concerns of parents

Parents often worry about safety, screen exposure, and data privacy and these are valid concerns. The Ministry has emphasised ethical use, limited data collection, and transparency. Children should know when technology is helping them and when they are expected to think independently. A simple way to explain AI at home is to describe it as a smart helper, not a living being. Parents can support learning by discussing where AI appears in daily life, such as voice assistants or content recommendations on TV.

A skill that goes beyond careers

The most important point is that AI education is not about producing coders from primary school. It is about helping children think clearly, ask better questions, and understand the systems around them. Just as reading and numeracy became essential skills over time, basic AI understanding is becoming part of everyday literacy. If implemented thoughtfully, this shift can prepare students not only for future work, but for responsible participation in a digital society.

FAQs

1. Will children be expected to code in Class 3?
   No. The focus is on logic, awareness, and basic understanding.
2. Will this increase academic pressure?
   No. AI concepts are meant to blend into existing learning.
3. What if a school does not have a computer lab?
   Many lessons will rely on unplugged activities like games, puzzles, storytelling that do not require devices.

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These are some of the last minute preparation strategies for optimum preparation.

Identify High-Weightage Topics

Begin with your CBSE, ISC or State Board curriculum. Go through the chapter-wise marks distribution once again. Most subjects have patterns that are predictable. For example, long answers often come from major chapters, while smaller units carry short questions. This will make last minute revision easier when before exams. Remember the marking scheme, as that keeps reminding you of the topics that need more focus. Through this, you would also have understood how detailed your answers need to be to score high marks, especially for subjects like History, Economics, and Physics. If you still have any confusion, ask your teachers for clarity.

How to Make a Realistic Study Schedule

Right before the board exams, your study schedule should be simple. You don’t need long hours since this is the time for revision and not learning new concepts. You only need consistency, and a basic plan could include:

• 40-50 minute study blocks
• Short breaks between sessions
• Tougher subjects in the first half of the day
• Lighter revision in the evening

If you want a timetable for board exam revision, begin with the subjects that take a lot of time, or you find more challenging. Spend more time on chapters where you feel you might lose marks. Keep one hour daily only for revising formulas, maps, or diagrams.

Conceptual Clarity

Memorising answers may feel quick and easy, but it does not help much in boards. Since NEP 2020 has established that the focus should be on competency-based questions rather than questions that test memory. This means that for Class 10, this is the bifurcation:

• Competency-based questions (50%): Case-based, source-based, and other application-oriented formats that test higher-order thinking skills.
• Objective-type questions (20%): Primarily Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Descriptive questions (30%): Short and long answer questions that require analytical thinking and detailed explanations.

Marks distribution for Class 12 CBSE Board Exams:

• Competency-based questions (30%): Case-based and source-based questions, including HOTS and application-oriented items.
• Objective-type questions (20%): MCQs, assertion-reasoning questions, and fill-in-the-blanks.
• Short and long answer questions (50%): Concept-driven descriptive questions that assess depth of understanding.

Competency-based questions mean that questions will test your understanding of a concept rather than how well you remember facts. For subjects like Accountancy, Economics, and Physics, solving in-text questions helps build clarity. For English, practise sample papers to learn how to organise long answers. For subjects like Biology, label diagrams and mind maps. Simple techniques improve recall during the exam.

Use Previous Years’ Question Papers and Sample Papers

If you attempt one paper every alternate day, it will help you with managing your time greatly. Try writing one paper every two days. Sit for the full duration as if you are in the examination hall. After finishing, check your answers using the marking scheme. Note the questions where you lost marks and revise them again. This method improves accuracy, speed, and confidence. It also prepares you for the pressure of the actual exam.

The Final Countdown: Your 30-Day Class 12 Board Exam Preparation Strategy

A last 30-day prep plan for Boards should be simple:

• First 10 days – Revision of all chapters
• Next 10 days – Solve sample papers and mock tests
• Last 10 days – Revise weak areas and correct mistakes

It would not be wise to study from new books. Stick to your textbooks, class notes, and school materials. Using too many resources will slow you down. During this phase, short daily revisions work better than long, irregular sessions.

Analyse Mistakes to Turn Errors into Board Success

Your sample papers and mock test papers marks guide your next steps. After each test:

• Check which questions took too long
• Identify repeated mistakes
• Mark weak chapters in a separate notebook
• Revise them during the last week

This simple tracking method makes your preparation more focused. By the time your board exams arrive, you already know common mistakes that are made and how you can avoid them.

Prioritise Well-being

Your preparation is not just about books; it’s about strength. Remember to sleep at least 7-8 hours every night, as this is when your brain processes and retains information and memories. Take short, screen-free breaks away from your study desk, as a calm and steady mind absorbs far more than an exhausted one. Maintain a positive mindset, scores in board exams are important, which is very normal, but your ability to handle that stress determines your final success.

Do you know the most common mistakes to avoid in board exams to gain full marks? Read here!

The post Class 12 Board Exam Preparation Strategy: A 30-Day Plan appeared first on AASOKA.

It is important to know how to not lose marks. As losing half a mark here and half a mark there might not sound big but the total marks lost catches up. Read below to find out the hidden ways to not lose those marks.

1. Answering MCQs

MCQs are a big part of CBSE Board exams 2026. Many students have the habit of writing the answer as ‘Q1. A, Q2.B’ and so on. The correct way to write the response is the following format:

The Correct Format: Question number + correct option (a, b, c, or d) + the complete option
Example: Answer 4: (c) It turns grey due to formation of silver metal

2. Subjective Answers (Answers that require proof)

For many students, answering the question is limited to writing the formula and writing a few steps followed by correct answers. However, this is where most students lose marks as they hurriedly try to answer such questions. Solving the equation or the sum is not the only part but writing the formula, showing all the steps is as crucial. Each of these things carry marks. The correct way to answer such a question is given as follows:

Ans. 2: 

Given: List the values provided in the question.

To Find/Prove: State the objective.

Formula: Place the formula in a box or underline it.

Calculation: Show every logical step without skipping.

Final Answer: Clearly state the units and box the final result.

This will ensure that formula, steps and the final answer are clearly visible. It would be easy for the examiner to allocated exact marks to the answer without skipping out anything. So, even if you have answered incorrectly, writing the steps and giving the correct formula will still get you some marks.

3. Diagrams – Construction

Diagrams are an important part of the exams. Simply practicing drawing it or construction it (Geometry) is not enough. It is important that you label it properly and write what you have drawn/constructed below it.

4. Diagrams, Maps and more

Diagrams are a part where you can score full marks really easily. Not writing what the diagram is about or a few details might make you lose marks. Always draw with a pencil and label it properly in neat writing. The same rule applies to maps and graphs.

5. Correcting Mistakes

In subjects like Maths or physics, it so happens that while you are solving a problem, you realise that you used the wrong formula or made a calculation mistake midway. Instead of scribbling it out, cross it out with only one or two lines. Refrain from scribbling all over it.

Additional tip – If you don’t know the answer to a problem, try to at least write the formula.

These are some of the ways that will ensure that you do not lose out on marks, even 1/2 a mark is important. Keep these tips in mind to avoid making mistakes in board exams.

Key Takeaways

Read to not make these mistakes in board exams to score perfect marks.

1. In MCQs, write the question number, option letter, and the complete option, not just A, B, C, or D.
2. In numericals, always write the formula, show all steps, and clearly mark the final answer to secure marks.
3. Diagrams must be neatly drawn, correctly labelled, and briefly described to earn full marks.
4. Diagrams, maps, and graphs must be neatly drawn in pencil, correctly labelled, and briefly described to earn full marks.
5. Cross out mistakes with one or two lines instead of scribbling to keep your work neat.

The post 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid in CBSE Board Exams 2026 appeared first on AASOKA.

CBSE Additional Sample Papers for Class 10 & 12

These CBSE additional papers are supplementary resources specially designed for students appearing for board exams. The papers offer additional practice to strengthen their learning. CBSE Additional Practice Questions for Class 10 and CBSE Additional Practice Questions for Class 12 are available for various subjects like Mathematics, Science, Social Science, English, Hindi, Accountancy, History, Physics and more. Students can attempt these papers to practice writing board exam by simulating actual exam conditions like the 3-hour time limit and no distractions.

What are the benefits of CBSE additional practice questions?

CBSE additional practice questions help students understand how questions are framed in board  exams. They help to improve conceptual clarity and also to reduce anxiety related to exams. These questions focus on application and how well the concept has been understood by the student, not rote memorisation. They also help students practise different question types like case-study based and assertion and reason questions. With the help of sample papers and additional sample papers, students feel more relaxed and focused for their CBSE Board exams.

Steps to Download Additional Practice Questions CBSE

Students appearing for CBSE Board Exams 2026 Class 10 and Class 12 can download Additional Practice Questions by visiting the official CBSE website. Save the CBSE Class 10 and CBSE Class 12 Practice Paper 2025-26 PDFs and Marking Scheme for use.

Why did CBSE introduce competency-based questions in 2026?

CBSE introduced competency-based questions to develop and test analytical thinking and real conceptual understanding of topics. Students have to answer questions based on situations, data, or sources instead of simply memorising text in the book. This helps the students understand and apply their learning to real life scenarios. This change follows official notifications under NEP and focuses on high order thinking skills (HOTS) rather than memory-based learning.

How do additional practice papers help in board exam preparation?

Additional practice papers are like mock exam papers. They help students manage time, understand the marking scheme, and identify weak areas of each subject. Self-assessment through these papers improves answer writing and increases confidence before the final board exams.

Are CBSE additional papers harder than sample papers?

CBSE additional questions are not harder though they are different from the sample papers released by CBSE. Sample papers mainly help in revising the syllabus. Additional papers focus more on application and problem-solving. They prepare students for unexpected question formats and questions that often appear in board exams.

CBSE Class 10 Board Exam Preparation: Why Practice Matters More Now

For Class 10 students, the shift is clear. Questions now include case-study-based problems, assertion and reason, and source-based integrated questions. Solving CBSE Additional Practice Questions 2026 helps students move beyond short answers and learn how to explain logic clearly. These questions also improve time management. When students practise regularly, they learn how long each section takes and how to balance descriptive and objective questions during exams.

CBSE Class 12 Additional Practice Papers and the 2026 Exam Pattern

CBSE Class 12 Additional Practice Papers are especially important for Science students. Subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology now test application of concepts through real-life situations. The latest CBSE exam pattern 2026 for Class 12 Science includes competency-based questions that check reasoning, data interpretation, and analytical thinking. Additional papers prepare students for these shifts better than repeated textbook revisions.

How to Solve CBSE Additional Practice Questions Effectively

• Start after finishing one chapter. Do not wait till the full syllabus is over.
• Check answers honestly and note mistakes.
• Focus on why an answer is wrong, not just what is wrong.
• Treat these papers like mock tests. Sit with a timer.
• And revise concepts before moving to the next set.

Students should use these papers because they reflect how CBSE wants answers to be written now.

They help students understand the syllabus coverage, exam pattern, and expectations clearly. If used well, CBSE Additional Practice Questions 2026 can make board exam preparation more structured and less stressful. Practice may not remove pressure, but it makes exams feel more familiar. And that helps more than anything else. For best overall exam preparation, practice using the sample papers and additional practice papers released by CBSE.

FAQs

1. What are CBSE additional practice papers?
   CBSE additional practice papers are practice papers provided by the Central Board of Secondary Education as supplementary resources to help students prepare for their board exams.
2. Where are the CBSE additional papers available?
   You can find the additional sample papers by visiting the official CBSE website. They can be downloaded from there.
3. Are they only for class 12?
   No, the additional practice papers are for both Class 10 and Class 12.

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