NCERT Exemplar vs NCERT: What to Practice for Boards?
Ritik Kumar
August 21, 2025
Introduction
When it comes to board exam preparation, students often ask the same question: Should I stick to NCERT Books or also practice from NCERT Exemplars?
Both resources come from the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and aim to improve your subject knowledge, but their purposes and difficulty levels differ. Knowing when and how to use them can make all the difference in your board exam performance.
In this guide, we’ll break down the NCERT Exemplar vs NCERT debate, explain which one is right for you, and share how to create a balanced study plan to ace your boards.
Table of Contents
What is the Difference Between NCERT Books and NCERT Exemplars?
NCERT Books are the core textbooks prescribed by CBSE and other boards following the NCERT syllabus. They cover the entire syllabus in a simple, easy-to-understand manner, making them the primary study material for board exams.
NCERT Exemplars, on the other hand, are practice problem books developed by NCERT for subjects like Mathematics and Science (Classes 6–12). They contain higher-order thinking skill (HOTS) questions, application-based problems, and tricky conceptual exercises.
| Feature | CBSE | ISC |
|---|---|---|
| Total Marks | 100 (80 theory + 20 project) | 100 (80 theory + 20 project) |
| Section Weightage | Equal for Macroeconomics & IED | Micro & Macro have higher focus |
| Question Type Variety | More objective & short answers | More descriptive & analytical questions |
| Data Interpretation | Frequently tested in CBSE | Less focus compared to CBSE |
Do You Need Both for Board Exams?
Yes — but with a strategy.
For board exams, NCERT Books are non-negotiable. Most board exam questions are directly or indirectly based on NCERT content. Without mastering the textbook, jumping to NCERT Exemplars can feel overwhelming.
However, practicing a select number of questions from NCERT Exemplars can help you:
- Tackle tricky application-based board questions
- Prepare for competitive exams like JEE/NEET
Boost your confidence in handling unfamiliar question patterns
When Should You Start Using NCERT Exemplars?
- Class 10 Students: After completing the NCERT textbook and revising at least once, start solving important exemplar problems in Science and Mathematics.
- Class 12 Students: Incorporate exemplar practice right after you finish each chapter from your NCERT textbook. This helps reinforce concepts and prepare you for complex board questions.
Tip: Do not start exemplars before completing NCERT basics — you’ll risk wasting time and losing confidence.
Which One to Focus on for Scoring High in Boards?
If your goal is to score 90%+, here’s your priority order:
- NCERT Books – Read and understand every line. Learn definitions, diagrams, solved examples, and in-text questions.
- Previous Years’ Board Papers – Practice these to understand exam patterns.
- NCERT Exemplar (Selective) – Focus on questions that test application of concepts.
Remember: For boards, depth of NCERT textbook knowledge matters more than the number of extra questions you solve.
How to Combine NCERT and NCERT Exemplar in Your Study Plan
Here’s a smart study approach for balancing both:
- Step 1: Master NCERT Books
- Read each chapter thoroughly.
- Highlight key formulas, definitions, and diagrams.
- Solve in-text and exercise questions.
- Read each chapter thoroughly.
- Step 2: Practice from NCERT Exemplar
- Select only relevant questions as per your syllabus.
- Focus on application-based, tricky, and HOTS questions.
- Avoid over-practicing uncommon topics that may not appear in boards.
- Select only relevant questions as per your syllabus.
- Step 3: Revise & Test
- Take mock tests based on NCERT syllabus.
- Revisit both textbook and exemplar mistakes.
- Take mock tests based on NCERT syllabus.
NCERT vs NCERT Exemplar for Competitive Exams
While this article focuses on board exam preparation, it’s worth noting that NCERT Exemplars are especially useful for competitive exams like JEE Main, NEET, and Olympiads. The problem-solving techniques and tricky patterns found in exemplars help bridge the gap between basic NCERT learning and advanced application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is the Board exam strictly NCERT-based?
A: Yes. Exams stick to NCERT; Exemplar is for extra practice.
Q2. Is NCERT + PYQs enough?
A: Yes for good scores. Add Exemplar if you have time.
Q3. Do direct Exemplar questions appear in Boards?
A: Rarely. They help with tricky variations.
Q4. Which subjects need Exemplar most?
A: Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
Q5. Is Exemplar harder than RD Sharma?
A: Usually trickier and more concept-focused.
Q6. Is Exemplar a must for Class 10 Maths?
A: Not for everyone; best for 95+ scorers.
Q7. Should Class 12 Bio students do Exemplar?
A: Only NCERT parts; skip out-of-syllabus.
Q8. Is NCERT enough on its own?
A: Yes for solid scores; add Exemplar for excellence.
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Conclusion
In the NCERT Exemplar vs NCERT debate, the answer isn’t “either/or” — it’s “both, but wisely.”
- Start with NCERT Books for strong fundamentals.
- Use NCERT Exemplars selectively for advanced practice.
- Prioritize board-relevant topics to save time and boost scores.
If you want a personalized, effective study plan that blends both resources perfectly, connect with Career Plan B and turn your career into success.
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