CBSE Class 10 English Sample Paper 2026 | Free PDF Download

UPDATE: CBSE has officially released the Class 10 Science Sample Papers for 2025–26 on July 30, 2025. The official sample papers (along with detailed marking schemes) are now available for download.

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With the newly introduced two-exam system (Feb & May), these papers are designed to help students master comprehension, grammar, and literature analysis in alignment with the updated syllabus. English (Language & Literature) focuses on developing critical reading, structured writing, and literary appreciation skills through prose, poetry, and drama from the prescribed textbooks. This blog includes everything you need: detailed exam pattern updates, official release information, and free downloadable PDFs of the English sample papers and marking schemes to guide your preparation for both exam phases.

a) Year-wise CBSE Official Sample Papers and Solutions

Students can refer to the official english sample papers for class 10 with solutions pdf from 2014 to 2025 to understand the question paper pattern, marking scheme, and important topics. These FREE PDFs cover the whole syllabus for board exams and include all the important questions that might be asked in the science board exam 2026.

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b) CBSE Class 10 Additional Practice Papers 

CBSE English Language and Literature additional sample papers for Class 10 students cover the competency-based questions based on the revised exam pattern. The practice papers also includes a marking scheme for more effective preparation. 

Class 10 English Language and Literature Set 1 SQP + Marking Scheme

Class 10 English Language and Literature Set 2  SQP + Marking Scheme

Class 10 English Practice Paper Set 1

Class 10 English Practice Paper Set 2

c) How to Access the Latest Class 10 English Sample Papers

Students can find the English Sample Papers for Class 10 with solutions:

Understanding the Class 10 English Exam Paper

The Class 10 English Sample Paper is aligned with the latest exam pattern of the CBSE; this will help you understand the exam format and types of questions you may receive in the exam.

a) Key Changes in the Exam Pattern for English (2025–26)

Though the dual-board structure is new, the exam blueprint for English remains broadly similar. However, you'll need to align your preparation with the specific pattern. Here's the breakdown for English Class 10:

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The theory paper is further divided as:

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b) English Board Paper Pattern 2025-26 - Section-wise

The English paper follows a comprehensive pattern covering reading comprehension, creative writing skills, grammar application, and literature analysis with both objective and subjective question types.

Section A: Reading Skills (20 marks)

• Multiple Choice Questions: 10 questions worth 1 mark each
• Very Short Answer Questions: 2 questions worth 2 marks each
• Short Answer Questions: 2 questions worth 3 marks each

Section B: Writing Skills & Grammar (20 marks)

• Multiple Choice Questions: 5 questions worth 1 mark each
• Very Short Answer Questions: 1 question worth 2 marks each
• Short Answer Questions: 1 question worth 3 marks each
• Long Answer Questions: 1 question worth 5 marks each
• Long Answer Questions: 1 question worth 5 marks each

Section C: Literature Textbooks (40 marks)

• Multiple Choice Questions: 5 questions worth 1 mark each
• Very Short Answer Questions: 3 questions worth 2 marks each
• Short Answer Questions: 4 questions worth 3 marks each
• Long Answer Questions: 2 questions worth 5 marks each
• Long Answer Questions: 3 questions worth 5 marks each

Key topics include: Reading Comprehension Passages, Formal/Informal Letters, Article Writing, Story Writing, Grammar (Voice, Narration, Editing), First Flight Prose & Poetry, and Footprints Without Feet Stories.

How Sample Papers Help in Studying English?

• Mastering reading comprehension techniques and passage analysis skills
• Understanding various writing formats including formal letters, articles, and creative writing
• Improving speed in solving grammar questions and language applications
• Building confidence in explaining literary themes, character analysis, and poetic devices
• Developing analytical skills for unseen passage interpretation and vocabulary enhancement
• Getting familiar with time management across reading, writing, and literature sections

How to Use English Sample Papers Effectively?

• Practice in timed conditions: Especially for reading comprehension and writing tasks
• Focus on proper format: Use correct letter formats, article structures, and answer presentation styles
• Refer to marking schemes: To understand expected level of detail in literary explanations and writing skills
• Master all three sections systematically: Ensure balanced preparation across Reading, Writing & Grammar, and Literature
• Practice language accuracy: Focus on correct grammar, vocabulary usage, and expression clarity
• Use sample papers to strengthen comprehension: Practice extracting key information from unseen passages and developing coherent written responses

In conclusion, regular practice with Class 10 English sample papers is key to mastering the dual-exam format and excelling in both board exams. These papers help you build language proficiency, refine your communication skills, and gain confidence in tackling both literature analysis and creative writing tasks. Until the official Sample Papers 2025–26 are released, make use of previous years' papers and trusted resources like Educart to stay ahead.

Also explore:

• CBSE Class 10 Hindi A Sample Papers 2025–26
• CBSE Class 10 Hindi B Sample Papers 2025–26
• CBSE Class 10 Mathematics Sample Papers 2025–26

Stay tuned for latest updates and all the best for your preparation!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the exam structure and marking scheme for Class 10 English?

Total Marks: 80 (theory) + 20 (internal assessment) Duration: 3 hours Question Breakdown: Divided into three main sections:

• Section A: Reading Skills (20 marks) - Comprehension passages with MCQs and descriptive questions
• Section B: Writing & Grammar (20 marks) - Creative writing tasks and grammar applications
• Section C: Literature (40 marks) - Questions from First Flight and Footprints Without Feet

Mark distribution:

• 1-mark: MCQs across all sections
• 2-marks: Very short answer questions
• 3-marks: Short answer questions
• 5-marks: Long answer questions

Internal choice is provided in select questions across different mark categories.

Q2. How many papers should I attempt and when should I start?

Aim to solve at least 4–6 full-length sample papers to build confidence and speed.

Begin practicing 1–2 months before the board exams—after covering around 80–90% of the syllabus to focus on timed practice, writing skills improvement, and literature revision.

Q3. How should I use sample papers effectively during preparation?

Simulate exam conditions: Attempt the full paper in a single 3-hour session. Use the marking scheme to self-evaluate language accuracy and content quality. Analyze mistakes to identify weak areas—such as comprehension skills, writing formats, or specific literature chapters. Revise based on performance: Focus extra effort on sections where errors occurred frequently.

Q4. Are sample papers aligned with actual board exam questions?

Yes. CBSE sample papers closely reflect the format, difficulty level, and topic distribution of actual exams. Using them helps students anticipate question types, practice time management, and avoid surprises on exam day.

Q5. Which sections require maximum focus in English preparation?

High-yield areas frequently tested are:

• Reading comprehension: Unseen passage analysis and vocabulary questions
• Writing skills: Formal letters, articles, and story writing with proper format
• Grammar: Active/Passive voice, Direct/Indirect speech, and editing tasks
• Literature: Character analysis, theme explanation, and poetic device identification from prescribed texts