CBSE Class 10 English Exam Analysis 2026: Moderate to easy, student-friendly paper

The CBSE Class 10 English paper this year stayed true to expectations, with a balanced structure and syllabus-based questions. Early analysis suggests the exam was moderate to easy, offering students clear opportunities to score while testing their comprehension, writing ability, and conceptual clarity.

The CBSE Class 10 English board examination held on February 21, 2026, was moderate to easy in overall difficulty, with most questions drawn directly from the prescribed syllabus. The structure of the paper enabled students to approach it with confidence, especially those who had prepared thoroughly from NCERT and were familiar with the exam pattern. Early student and teacher feedback indicates that the paper remained accessible and fair, without unexpected deviations.

"The overall Grade X English Language and Literature (184) paper was moderately easy. The language used was lucid and coherent, which likely enabled smooth comprehension for most students. The paper appeared balanced and well-structured, giving due weightage to the prescribed syllabus. Most questions were competency-based, expecting students to think critically, compare and contrast ideas, and draw logical conclusions rather than rely solely on rote learning," said Mahima Dudeja, PGT English - JAIN International Residential School (JIRS), Bengaluru.

The reading comprehension section was considered scoring, with passages that were clear and manageable. Questions focused on comprehension, inference, and vocabulary without introducing ambiguity.

Experts noted that students who read the passages carefully were able to attempt this section effectively, as it relied more on understanding than complex interpretation.

The writing section followed familiar formats and provided balanced internal options, including letter writing and analytical paragraph. Clear instructions on word limits and format helped students organise their answers properly.