The pressure is on. You’ve heard the whispers: “You need an advanced vocabulary to score high in CBSE Class 10 English.” But what if that’s the biggest myth holding you back?
Forget the thesaurus for a moment. The truth, as revealed by seasoned faculty from Sunbeam School—a CBSE institution consistently ranked among India’s best for holistic development —is far more straightforward and empowering. The 2026 board exam isn’t a test of your linguistic gymnastics; it’s a test of your clarity, your understanding, and your ability to meet the examiner on their own terms.
If you’re aiming for a score in the 90s, the secret sauce isn’t complexity. It’s precision, format, and a personal touch that showcases genuine grasp over rote learning.
Table of Contents
- Why Fancy Words Won’t Cut It in CBSE Class 10 English 2026
- The Three Pillars of a 95+ Scorer
- Section-by-Section Strategy for Maximum Marks
- The 95+ Scorer’s Mindset & Presentation
- Conclusion: Your Path to a Top Score
- Sources
Why Fancy Words Won’t Cut It in CBSE Class 10 English 2026
The CBSE marking scheme is designed to reward comprehension and communication, not vocabulary showboating. Examiners are looking for answers that are easy to follow, logically structured, and directly address the question. An essay peppered with misused complex words will not only fail to impress but can actually cost you marks if it leads to incoherence.
The key is to write in your own authentic voice. A simple, well-articulated point is always worth more than a convoluted, jargon-filled sentence that misses the mark. This approach builds trust with the examiner and demonstrates a true command of the language.
The Three Pillars of a 95+ Scorer
According to expert advice, your entire preparation should rest on these three non-negotiable pillars:
- Deep Conceptual Understanding: For the literature section, this means moving far beyond plot summary. Focus on the themes, the author’s message, character motivations, and the use of literary devices. Examiners want your interpretation, not a regurgitation of the story .
- Rigorous Format Practice: The writing section (letters, articles, analytical paragraphs) is where many students lose easy marks by ignoring the prescribed format. A formal letter without the correct subject line or an article without a byline can see you lose a significant chunk of your allotted marks before the examiner even reads your content.
- Grammar as Your Safety Net: The grammar section is your golden opportunity for full marks. It’s objective and rule-based. Treat it as such by mastering tenses, subject-verb agreement, reported speech, and sentence re-arrangement through consistent, daily practice .
Section-by-Section Strategy for Maximum Marks
The CBSE Class 10 English paper is divided into three main sections, each demanding a unique approach.
1. Reading Comprehension (20 Marks)
This section is often underestimated. The trick is to read the questions before you read the passage. This primes your brain to look for specific answers while you read, saving you time and making your responses more focused . Practice at least one high-quality comprehension passage daily in the weeks leading up to the exam.
2. Writing Skills and Grammar (20 Marks)
This is your high-stakes section. For writing, practice at least 5-6 full-length sample papers under timed conditions . Memorising entire letters or essays is a trap. Instead, build a repository of strong opening and closing lines, and practice adapting your content to different prompts. In grammar, aim for perfection. Every single mark here is within your control .
3. Literature (40 Marks)
This is where your depth of understanding is tested. The two main texts—First Flight and Footprints Without Feet—must be read multiple times. Create mind maps for each chapter, connecting characters, themes, and key quotes. When answering, always start your response with a clear, direct answer to the question. Then, support it with a relevant quote from the text and a 2-3 line explanation of its significance. This structured approach is what separates a 7/8 from a perfect 8/8.
The 95+ Scorer’s Mindset & Presentation
Your final score is also a product of your exam-day discipline. Here’s how the top scorers think and act:
- They Write for the Examiner: They use clear, legible handwriting, leave margins, and underline headings and key points. They make the examiner’s job easy.
- They Manage Their Time Ruthlessly: They allocate time per section and stick to it. A common mistake is spending too long on literature and rushing the writing section.
- They Avoid Clichés: Phrases like “since time immemorial” or “in the fast-paced world of today” are red flags for a memorised answer. Be original and specific .
- They Review Their Work: The last 10 minutes are reserved for a quick proofread to catch spelling errors and grammatical slips—easy marks that are too often lost carelessly.
Conclusion: Your Path to a Top Score
Scoring 95+ in your CBSE Class 10 English exam in 2026 is not a distant dream reserved for a select few. It’s a tangible goal for any student who is willing to ditch the outdated strategy of memorisation and embrace a more intelligent, examiner-focused approach. By prioritising clarity over complexity, mastering the format, and demonstrating a deep, personal understanding of your texts, you can transform your answer script into a compelling case for a top grade. Start implementing these faculty-backed strategies today, and watch your confidence—and your scores—soar. For more on acing your boards, check out our guide on [INTERNAL_LINK:cbse-class-10-study-plan].