CBSE Step-Wise Marking Scheme 2026: How Does it Work?

How does the CBSE Step-Wise Marking Scheme 2026 Work?

The Central Board conducts CBSE 10th and CBSE 12th examinations for 100 marks. For some subjects, the board categorised 80 marks for theory and 20 marks for practical or internal assessment, while for some subjects, 70 marks for theory and 30 marks for practical work. The CBSE prepares the marking scheme for Class 10 and Class 12 for the evaluation of all subjects in detail. For example, in Mathematics, there are a few steps to solve questions which are considered important. Such steps are value points, and if students mention these points, the marks will be awarded; if not, the marks will not be awarded.

Does CBSE Provide Grace Marks to Students?

The CBSE board exams are conducted to test the students' knowledge and how much they gained during that particular academic year. If a candidate has secured 33% marks, he/she will be declared as a pass. If the student does not achieve 33% marks or misses out by just 1 mark, the board can decide to award grace marks.

CBSE Marking Scheme for Maths Subject

A step-marking scheme is followed in the CBSE board, i.e., even if the student doesn’t attempt the final answer to a math question, he/she can still get some partial marks for using correct formulas, method, and steps, clearly. A student must show the solution steps clearly while attempting the question. If the formula is written and if the candidate attempts the subsequent steps, though there are mistakes in the calculation, he/she could get some credit for their efforts.

Note: Just writing the formula is not enough to get the full marks in maths.

Does CBSE Board Deduct Marks for Exceeding the Word Limit?

Generally, the Central Board mentions the word-limit for the respective sections. The world limit for all questions in language and optional subjects will be as desired in the question itself. Students can also check their specific curriculum and CBSE exam day guidelines to learn more. For exceeding the word limit, marks will not be deducted; however, marks will not be awarded either.

• Stick to the recommended word limit.
• Make sure the answer is clear, precise, and addresses the question without any unnecessary explanation.
• Think twice and then write the answer, keeping the value points in mind.
• Don’t waste your time elaborating on the answer without any value points required for the question.

How to Check CBSE Step-Wise Marking Scheme 2026 Online?

Students can follow the steps mentioned below to learn more about how to check and download the CBSE 10th marking scheme and CBSE 12th marking scheme, step-wise.

• Step 1: Visit the official website at cbseacademic.nic.in.
• Step 2: Click on the “Sample Question Paper” option from the menu bar on the homepage.
• Step 3: Click on the “SQP 2025-26” button from the drop-down list. Now, click on the respective class.
• Step 4: Select the respective subject marking scheme.
• Step 5: Download the SQP and check out the marking scheme.