CBSE Class 12 Physics Exam 2026CBSE Class 12 Physics Exam 2026 LIVE: As the clock ticks down to CBSE Class 12 Physics Exam 2026, on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM , the final hours are crucial. The CBSE Class 12 Physics (Subject Code: 042) theory exam 2026 is comprised of maximum of 70 marks. Physics, being the most challenging paper for students in Class 12 boards examination, requires smart last-minute preparation. To ace the paper, a clear focus on the NCERT-based marking scheme can turn it into your highest-scoring subject. As per the 2026 blueprint, Optics and Magnetic Effects are the highest weightage units, so having command over these can fetch high scores.
High-Priority Blueprint: CBSE Class 12 Physics Unit-Wise Weightage & Key Topics
The theory paper comprises total nine units. If you focus on the key topics of each topic as provided below, you can master the paper.
Unit | Marks Weightage | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
Optics | 18 Marks | Lens Maker’s Formula, YDSE, Prism Refraction |
Electrostatics | 16 Marks | Gauss’s Law, Capacitance, Electric Potential |
Current Electricity | 16 Marks | Kirchhoff’s Laws, Drift Velocity, Potentiometer |
Magnetic Effects | 17 Marks | Ampere’s Law, Moving Coil Galvanometer |
Modern Physics | 12 Marks | Photoelectric Effect, Bohr Model, Half-life |
CBSE Class 12 Physics 2026: 3 "Golden Rules" to Boost Your Score Today
Find the expert’s three important score booster tips to ace the paper below.
- Units are Mandatory: In numericals, a correct answer without its SI unit (e.g., Farads, Tesla, or Ohm) will cost you 0.5 marks.
- Diagrams First: For 5-mark derivations, always draw the diagram first. A neat, labeled diagram instantly catches the eye of the examiner and earns you instant credit marks.
- The 15-Minute Window: In the initial 15 minutes, divide your paper into 'Easy,' 'Tricky,' and 'Numerical-heavy questions. Start attempting questions you are most confident in. You must take up Section E (Long Answers) first to secure 15 marks easily.
Essential Exam Day Morning Checklist
On exam day, ensure you have a steady scale and geometry box. You must reach the centres strictly by 10 AM, as examination will commence sharply at 10:30 AM. Stay calm and focused; do not panic. Collegedekho wishes you the best of luck with your exam!
Stay tuned for CBSE Class 12 Physics Exam 2026 Preparation tips, Important Questions, Expert Tips, and more on this live blog!
CBSE Class 12 Physics Exam 2026 LIVE
06 20 PM IST - 18 Feb'26
Semiconductors: Focus on Logic Gates and Rectifiers
For the Electronic Devices unit, pay close attention to the p-n junction diode characteristics in forward and reverse bias. The circuit diagram for a full-wave rectifier is a high-probability 3-mark question for the 2026 paper.
06 00 PM IST - 18 Feb'26
Modern Physics: The "Scoring Zone"
If you are feeling overwhelmed, switch to Atoms, Nuclei, and Semiconductors. These chapters carry 19 marks total and are largely theoretical and formula-based. They take less time to revise but offer a high return on investment (ROI).
05 40 PM IST - 18 Feb'26
Electrostatics Check: Gauss’s Law and its Applications
Don't just memorize the statement of Gauss's Law. The 2026 paper is expected to feature a conceptual application involving an infinite line charge or a uniformly charged thin spherical shell. Be ready to explain the field both inside and outside the shell.
05 20 PM IST - 18 Feb'26
Diagram Strategy: Why pencil work wins
In Physics, your diagram is your first impression. Examiners are instructed to give credit for neat, labeled diagrams even if the derivation has minor errors. Pro-tip: Always use a sharpened pencil and a ruler for ray diagrams and circuit symbols.
05 00 PM IST - 18 Feb'26
The "0.5 MARK" Trap: The importance of SI Units
A common mistake that lowers the scores of even top-tier students is omitting SI Units. Whether it’s $Tesla$ for Magnetic Field or $Farads$ for Capacitance, a missing unit means an automatic deduction of 0.5 marks. Make it a habit to double-check units as you solve numericals today.
04 40 PM IST - 18 Feb'26
Optics ALERT: The Lens Maker’s Formula is Non-Negotiable
Expert analysis of previous papers suggests that the Lens Maker’s Formula and Young’s Double Slit Experiment (YDSE) are the most frequent 5-mark questions. Practice these derivations twice tonight to ensure your diagrams and sign conventions are flawless.
04 20 PM IST - 18 Feb'26
The 70 Marks Blueprint: Where the marks are hidden?
As per the marking scheme, Unit VI (Optics) remains the king of the paper with 18 marks. Following closely are Magnetic Effects (17 marks) and Electrostatics (16 marks). If you master these three units, you've already covered over 70% of the theory marks!
04 00 PM IST - 18 Feb'26
THE KICK-OFF: 48 Hours to CBSE Class 12 Physics Exam 2026
The countdown for the most anticipated science paper has begun! With only two days left for the CBSE Class 12 Physics exam (Subject Code: 042), students are advised to shift from "Learning" mode to "Refinement" mode. Focus today should be on the heavyweights: Optics and Electrostatics.
