Student Guide

Ace Your Exams: A Guide to the Best Reference Books for Class 10

Ritik Kumar Ritik Kumar · August 30, 2025
This image depicts a human hand holding an open book with an orange cover against a plain light grey background. The book is slightly curved, and the hand is positioned underneath, supporting the book so its pages fan out visibly. In the top left corner, a small green and gold logo with the text "CAREER PLAN" is present. Centered at the top of the image, large brown bold text reads "Ace Your Exams:". Below this, a smaller line of similarly styled text states "A Guide to the Best Reference Books for Class 10". The overall design emphasizes academic preparation by presenting helpful resources for students.

Introduction

Preparing for Class 10 exams is a crucial step toward shaping your academic future. With the right resources, cracking your half-yearly and board exams becomes less stressful and more rewarding. Ace Your Exams: A Guide to the Best Reference Books for Class 10 offers a comprehensive, subject-wise reference book guide, so you can choose wisely and study smart for every subject. Whether you’re looking for extra practice or concept clarity, we have you covered.

Why Are Reference Books Important for Class 10?

Reference books complement your school textbooks by:

  • Offering a variety of questions and sample papers for practice.

  • Clarifying concepts with extra explanations and solved examples.

  • Providing important questions, HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills), and PYQ (Previous Year Questions) for deeper understanding.

  • Aiding in revision with concise points, mind maps, and chapter summaries.

However, it’s essential to pick books that align well with NCERT and the latest CBSE syllabus to avoid information overload.

NCERT vs. Reference Books: What Should Be Your Priority?

  • NCERT First: The CBSE Class 10 board exam papers are directly based on NCERT textbooks. All examples, exercises, and in-text questions must be mastered.

  • Reference Books Next: Once you are confident with NCERT, use reference books for advanced practice, clarity on tough topics, and self-assessment. Do not substitute reference books for NCERT — use them as supplements.

Which Are the Best Books for Class 10 Maths?

  • NCERT Mathematics (Main Textbook)
     The foundation for all concepts, must be solved thoroughly.
  • RS Aggarwal
     Excellent for additional practice, especially with MCQs, short and long answer questions.
  • RD Sharma
     Great for stepwise solutions, practice, and clarity on difficult concepts.
  • Together with Mathematics
     Useful for sample papers and latest pattern questions.

Which Reference Books Are Recommended for Class 10 Science?

  • NCERT Science
     Prioritize this for conceptual clarity — every example and exercise question matters.

  • Lakhmir Singh & Manjit Kaur (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
     Renowned for detailed explanations and ample practice questions.

  • S. Chand Science
     Helpful for solving higher difficulty-level questions, self-tests, and quick recaps.

  • Pradeep’s Science
     In-depth theory and conceptual clarity with high-level application-based questions.

What About Social Science? Top Books for Class 10 SST

  • NCERT Social Science
     Focus on reading, map practice, and structured answers.

  • Together with Social Science
     Packed with MCQs, chapter-based tests, and sample papers.

  • Xam Idea/Super 20
     Useful for revision notes, exam booster points, and solved board questions.

Which Books Work Best for Class 10 English?

  • NCERT First Flight & Footprints without Feet
     Fundamental for prose, poetry, and grammar.

     

  • BBC Compacta English
     Exceptional for grammar practice, sample questions, and comprehension tasks.

     

  • Together with English
     Popular for chapter-wise summaries, practice questions, and unseen passage exercises.

     

  • Wren & Martin (for Grammar)
     Useful for in-depth grammar rules and practice.

Tips to Get the Most from Your Reference Books

  • Do not skip NCERT exercises—reference books come after your basics are rock solid.

  • Use reference books primarily for practicing exam-style questions and clarifying doubts.

  • Avoid jumping between too many books; master one or two per subject besides NCERT to keep confusion at bay.

  • Follow the latest CBSE sample paper pattern using reference book sample papers.

  • Practice presentation and answer writing as per model answers in these guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I score 90%+ in the Class 10 Maths board exam?
A: To score above 90% in Class 10 Maths, focus on mastering formulas, practicing NCERT and PYQs (Previous Year Questions), managing time effectively, and ensuring error-free calculations during practice and exams.

Q: Is NCERT sufficient to score 90%+ in Class 10 in all subjects?
A: NCERT books are the foundation and sufficient for understanding core concepts. However, to score above 90%, students should also solve sample papers, reference books, and practice additional questions for better exposure.

Q: How should I write answers in the Class 10 CBSE board exams?
A: Write neat, structured answers while addressing the exact demand of the question. Use bullet points or short paragraphs, underline key terms, and keep handwriting legible for better presentation.

Q: In what ways can I improve my marks in half-yearly exams?
A: Create a daily study timetable with balanced time for all subjects, revise concepts regularly, and solve sample papers. Consistent practice and proper revision cycles help improve marks in half-yearly exams.

Q: How do we overcome stress in the board exams and prepare with self-confidence?
A: Manage stress through mindfulness, short breaks, exercise, proper sleep, and a positive mindset. Building confidence comes with consistent preparation and self-belief.

Q: Are previous exam papers helpful for the Class 10 board exams?
A: Yes, PYQs are extremely helpful to understand exam patterns and important topics. However, relying only on PYQs is not enough students should combine them with conceptual study and regular revision.

How Career plan b Can Help?

Achieve Your Goals with Career Plan B

  • Personalized Book Recommendations: Get subject-wise guidance tailored to your strengths, syllabus, and exam goals.
  • Academic Profile & Admission Guidance: Build a robust academic record with strategic book selection and study planning.
  • Psycheintel and Career Assessment: Identify your best-fit streams and study techniques for higher scores.
  • Career Roadmapping: Start future planning early—connect half-yearly success to higher studies and beyond.

With Career Plan B, you don’t just choose books—you build a strategy for marks and mastery.

Conclusion

Choosing the best reference books for Class 10 is the first step in building a rock-solid preparation strategy for your exams. Prioritize NCERT, supplement wisely with recommended reference books in each subject, and ensure daily disciplined study for best results.

Ready to transform your Class 10 preparation? Connect with Career Plan B now for custom study plans, book guides, and stepwise mentorship that turns effort into achievement.

Ace your exams—start your journey to top scores with the right books and Career Plan B by your side!

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