CBSE Class 12 Maths Sample Question Paper, Last-minute Tips from Experts, Dos and Don’ts Before Exam

Stressing over the CBSE Class 12 Maths board exam? From the CBSE sample paper 2026 to expert strategies, we have compiled everything you need to know. Check out our comprehensive guide on last-minute preparation tips and the critical mistakes you must avoid to secure your top marks.

CBSE Class 12 Maths Exam Sample Paper, Last-minute Tips
CBSE Class 12 Maths Exam Sample Paper, Last-minute Tips (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav, representative image)

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will conduct the CBSE Class 12 Mathematics exam on March 9, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. Students must read the question paper carefully before writing the answers in the CBSE Class 12 board exams. It is also important for students to carry their CBSE Class 12 hall ticket 2026 to the examination centre.

According to the CBSE Class 12 Mathematics syllabus and typology of questions, Class 12th students should be able to solve problems in new situations by applying acquired knowledge, facts, techniques and rules in a different way. Candidates must also note that there will be no overall choice in the question paper. However, 33% internal choices will be given in all the sections.

CBSE Class 12 Maths Sample Paper 2026 PDF Download

The CBSE officials have released the CBSE 12th sample papers for the academic session 2025-26 on their official website. Download the CBSE Class 12th Mathematics Sample Question Paper 2026 from the table below.

CBSE Class 12 Mathematics Sample Question Paper 2026Download PDF

The official sample paper will give an idea to the registered candidates about the type of questions, question pattern, and marking scheme. The sample question papers and marking scheme were released on July 30, 2025. 

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CBSE Class 12 Maths Exam: Dos and Don’ts

Strategic preparation and performance on exam day are the two key factors that can help students score well in the CBSE Board exam. Deepak Bhatt, Mathematics Faculty, PhysicsWallah (PW), tells what CBSE Class 12 students should do, and what they must avoid before the Class 12 Mathematics exam.

What You Should Do:

1. Follow a timetable, but revise smartly

In the final days, revise every chapter in small portions. Avoid spending all your time on just one topic. Balanced revision helps you stay confident and helps you cover all the topics across the syllabus.

2. Revise formulas daily for better retention

Do multiple revisions to learn and remember concepts. Spend 10-15 minutes every day writing and revising formulas, especially from topics like Derivatives, Integration, Matrices, and Probability.

3. Do not just rely on lectures; practice is key

 Watching lectures alone is not enough for Mathematics. Make sure you spend more time solving questions on your own. Regular practice builds accuracy, speed and confidence.

4. Solve Previous Year Questions (PYQs) and sample papers

 Attempt at least 2-3 previous year papers or sample papers within a time limit. This helps you understand the exam pattern and improves speed and time management.

5. Cover high-weightage topics first

 Focus more on chapters that carry higher marks. Strengthening these areas increases your chances of scoring well.

 What You Should Avoid:

1. Do not start new topics

 The gap days before the exam are meant for revision, not experimentation. Starting new chapters at this stage can cause confusion.

2. Avoid staying in “reading or watching mode” only

 Mathematics cannot be mastered by reading or watching alone. Hold a pen and solve questions. Merely going through examples is not sufficient

3. Do not follow a hectic or continuous study schedule

 Studying continuously for the entire day out of fear can be counterproductive. Take 15-20 minute breaks after every 2-3 hours to stay mentally fresh and increase retention 

4. Avoid late-night study sessions

 Studying late at night till 1-2 a.m. affects concentration the next day. Proper sleep is essential for clear thinking and better performance.

5. Do not compare your preparation with others

 Hearing “others have completed everything” can create unnecessary panic. Every student has a different pace. Focus on your own plan and trust your preparation.

Also check: CBSE 12th Admit Card 2026, Steps to Download, Direct Link

In the last few days before the exam, staying calm, revising regularly, and practising consistently matter more than anything else. Confidence comes from preparation, but if self-doubt comes in, always remember, you are more prepared than you think.