If Science feels scattered right now, start with one full paper. It will show whether Biology, Chemistry and Physics are all moving together, or whether one section is quietly taking more time than expected.
CBSE Class 10 Science sample paper 2025-26 is for Science code 086. The paper carries 80 marks, has a 3-hour time limit, and is divided into three sections: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Download the sample paper first, solve it honestly, and then use the marking scheme to check where marks are actually given.
This page is only for Science. For Maths, English, Hindi, Social Science and all Class 10 sample papers together, use the main CBSE Class 10 sample papers page.
On This Page
- Download CBSE Class 10 Science sample paper
- How to attempt the Science paper
- How to use the marking scheme
- Biology, Chemistry and Physics checklist
- 4-day Science correction plan
- FAQs
Download CBSE Class 10 Science Sample Paper 2025-26
Keep the marking scheme closed during the first attempt. Open it only after you finish the paper. That is the only way to know whether the answer-writing, diagrams, equations and time management are ready.
Need Maths also? Use the CBSE Class 10 Maths sample paper 2025-26. For a broader starting point, open the Class 10 sample papers hub.
How To Attempt The Science Paper
Sit with a pen, pencil, ruler, rough sheets and a timer. Give yourself the full 3 hours. Do not pause the timer for small doubts. In the board exam, the paper keeps moving, so practice should also feel close to the real attempt.
Science becomes easier to review when you mark questions while solving. Put a small star near questions where you were unsure, especially in diagrams, chemical reactions, numericals and assertion-reason questions. After checking, these stars will tell you where revision is actually needed.
If one question blocks you, move ahead and come back later. Many students lose easy marks because they keep fighting one difficult answer for too long. Protect your time first, then return to the difficult question with a calmer mind.
How To Use The Marking Scheme
Do not use the marking scheme like a shortcut solution book. Use it like a mirror. It shows what the examiner expects to see in the answer.
In Biology, check whether keywords and diagrams are complete. In Chemistry, check equations, observations, reasoning and correct terms. In Physics, check formula, substitution, units and final answer. For longer answers, see how marks are split across points instead of writing one long paragraph without structure.
After checking, make a short correction list. Keep it practical:
- Biology: diagram labels missing
- Chemistry: equation not balanced
- Physics: unit missed in final answer
- Assertion-reason: concept understood but option selected too quickly
- Long answer: correct idea, but points not separated clearly
This list is more useful than writing "revise Science". It tells you exactly what to fix before the next paper.
Biology, Chemistry And Physics Checklist
Biology: revise diagrams, functions, life processes, control and coordination, reproduction, heredity and environment-based questions. For diagrams, practise labels neatly. A correct diagram with unclear labels can still create doubt during checking.
Chemistry: revise reactions, acids-bases-salts, metals and non-metals, carbon compounds and periodic classification. While checking answers, notice whether the marking scheme rewards a specific term, condition, product or observation.
Physics: revise electricity, magnetic effects, light and numerical steps. Do not jump directly to the answer. Write the formula, substitute values, keep units visible and underline the final answer only after checking it once.
A Simple 4-Day Science Correction Plan
Day 1: Attempt the full Science sample paper in one sitting. Keep the marking scheme closed.
Day 2: Check the paper with the marking scheme. Mark every lost mark as keyword issue, diagram issue, equation issue, numerical issue or time issue.
Day 3: Revise only the weak areas from your correction list. Do not reopen the full syllabus randomly.
Day 4: Re-attempt the questions where you lost marks. If a mistake repeats, ask your teacher or a senior to explain that part before you move to the next paper.
If you have more time, repeat this cycle with previous year questions and chapter-wise practice. The goal is not to collect many files. The goal is to make every next attempt cleaner than the previous one.
For Parents
After your child solves the Science sample paper, avoid starting with "How many marks did you get?" A better first question is: "Where did marks go – diagrams, equations, numericals, keywords, or time?"
That answer will guide the next step. A low score because of time pressure needs timed practice. A low score because of missing keywords needs answer-writing review. A low score because of unclear concepts needs chapter revision. The solution becomes calmer when the mistake type is clear.
FAQs
Is this Science paper for CBSE Class 10 board exam practice?
Yes. It is the CBSE Class 10 Science code 086 sample question paper for the 2025-26 session.
Should I read the marking scheme before solving?
No. First attempt the paper. Then use the marking scheme to understand expected points, keywords, diagrams and step-wise marking.
What should I do if Biology is good but Physics is weak?
Do not restart the full syllabus. Make a Physics-only correction list from the paper and revise those areas first.
Is the sample paper enough for Science preparation?
No. It is a strong practice check, but you still need NCERT revision, diagrams, in-text questions, examples, class notes and regular practice.
Where should I verify the official files?
Final documents and updates should be checked from the CBSE Academic website.
Official Source Disclaimer
PrincipalSaab.com is an independent student guidance website and is not affiliated with CBSE. The sample paper and marking scheme linked here are based on documents released on the CBSE Academic website. Students should verify final documents and updates from the official CBSE Academic portal: https://cbseacademic.nic.in.