Can We Attempt Extra Questions in CBSE Board Exams?
The CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) board exams can be challenging, yet several opportunities exist to optimize your performance. One such opportunity is attempting extra questions, provided you follow specific guidelines. However, it is crucial to understand the structure of the question paper, the marking scheme, and instruction requirements to utilize this option effectively.
Question Paper Structure
The CBSE question paper is typically structured to include a mix of compulsory and optional questions. For instance, you might be required to answer a specific number of questions from each section, with some sections offering optional questions. This structure is designed to test a wide range of knowledge and skills.
Marking Scheme
It's essential to recognize that only the specified number of answers will be evaluated, regardless of how many you attempt. The examiners will only consider the first set of answers you provide for the required questions. Any additional responses will not be graded, even if they might improve your overall score.
Instructions
Always carefully read the instructions provided in the exam paper. These instructions will detail the number of questions you need to answer and any specifics regarding optional questions. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to mistakes and potential disqualification of your answers.
Best Strategy
It is highly recommended to focus on answering the required number of questions with quality over quantity. Quality answers are more likely to earn you a better grade than a series of incomplete or subpar attempts. It's advisable to spend all your time ensuring that you answer the required questions to the best of your ability rather than attempting extra questions.
Can We Attempt Extra Questions?
Yes, it is possible to attempt extra questions in CBSE board exams, although this is not generally advised. The key is to ensure that you do not compromise on the quality of the required answers or your revision time. It is not a good strategy to plan to complete the paper early and use the remaining time to attempt extra questions.
If you believe that you can improve your score by attempting an extra question after completing the required ones, you should go for it. However, it's crucial to add a clear heading, such as 'EXTRA QUESTION,' at the top of your answer to make it easier for the examiner to identify.
Understanding the Marking Scheme
The marking scheme for attempting extra questions is as follows: suppose you are required to answer 3 out of 4 questions, and you attempt the 4th as an extra. If your first three questions score a total of 886 marks, which translates to 22 marks each, and your extra question scores 9 marks, your total score will be 902. Only the highest scoring answers will be considered in the calculation of your total marks.
While you can attempt extra questions, I advise you to focus on providing the best possible answers to the required questions. The examiner might still check the extra question, though it is very rare for them to do so. However, this is something you need to be aware of in case it has any impact on your score.
In conclusion, while attempting extra questions in CBSE board exams is possible, it is crucial to follow the guidelines strictly and consider the potential risks. Always prioritize the quality and quantity of your required responses to maximize your chances of scoring well in the exam.