CBSE Class 10 Maths Exam 2026: Mixed Reactions as Basic Paper Called Lengthy

India|February 17, 2026 – The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) conducted the Class 10 Mathematics examination today in two formats: Standard and Basic. Early responses from students and educators suggest a noticeable contrast between the two papers in terms of length and difficulty.

While many described the Standard paper as balanced and largely aligned with expectations, the Basic paper was considered more time-consuming and calculation-heavy.

Overall Difficulty Level

Teachers from various schools across the country shared that the Standard Mathematics paper maintained a moderate difficulty level. Questions were largely based on NCERT concepts and followed the prescribed board pattern.

In contrast, several students who appeared for the Basic paper reported that it felt longer than anticipated, especially in sections involving graph-based and case-study questions.

Expert Opinions from Educators

School principals and subject teachers noted that the examination maintained conceptual clarity and stayed within the defined syllabus.

• The Standard paper was described as structured and manageable.
• Application-based questions required careful interpretation.
• Probability and Triangles were reported as slightly tricky.
• Section E and case-study questions demanded focused reading.

According to mathematics teachers, students who practiced NCERT examples and exemplar problems were able to approach most questions confidently.

Competency-Based Questions Gain Attention

This year’s paper continued CBSE’s emphasis on competency-based assessment. Several questions required real-life application of concepts rather than direct formula-based solutions.

Teachers highlighted that such questions tested analytical thinking and conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization.

Challenging Areas Identified

Some students pointed out that specific questions from the Circles chapter required deeper conceptual clarity. Additionally, a portion of the Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) section was described as calculation-intensive.

Time management emerged as a key factor. Students who paced themselves effectively were able to complete the paper within the allotted duration.

Student Reactions

Student reactions were varied. While many felt the paper was fair, some Basic paper candidates expressed concern about the overall length.

Several candidates noted that although the questions were within syllabus boundaries, the volume of calculations increased pressure.

Was the Paper Out of Syllabus?

Educators confirmed that no question was outside the prescribed NCERT curriculum. The structure remained consistent with the sample paper format released earlier by CBSE.

Experts believe the paper was designed to gradually shift focus towards application-driven assessment.

What’s Next for Students?

With Mathematics completed, students are now preparing for upcoming board subjects. Analysts suggest reviewing performance calmly and focusing on revision strategies for remaining examinations.

Conclusion

The CBSE Class 10 Mathematics Exam 2026 has been assessed as moderately difficult overall. While the Standard paper was widely regarded as balanced, the Basic paper demanded greater calculation effort and time management. However, the exam remained aligned with syllabus guidelines and board standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Was the CBSE Class 10 Maths paper 2026 difficult?

The overall difficulty level was moderate. The Standard paper was balanced, while the Basic paper felt lengthy for some students.

2. Were there out-of-syllabus questions?

No. Teachers confirmed that all questions were based on the NCERT curriculum.

3. Which sections were considered challenging?

Questions from Circles, Probability, and case-study sections required careful analysis.

4. Did the paper include competency-based questions?

Yes, several application-based and real-life scenario questions were included.

5. Is a re-exam likely?

There is no official announcement regarding any re-examination.