How many sample papers should I solve per subject?

There is no single "magic number," as it depends on your preparation level. However, here’s a practical, goal-oriented breakdown.

Solving 5 papers with deep analysis is far better than solving 15 papers without learning from your mistakes.

For a student aiming for a high score (90%+), this is a solid and achievable target:

Ideal Goal: 8 to 10 papers per subject.

Here’s a good mix to aim for:

• The Latest CBSE Official Sample Paper (2025-26): 1 paper (This is non-negotiable).
• Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs): 5-6 papers (From 2020 to 2025).
• High-Quality Mock Papers: 2-3 papers from a reliable publisher or your coaching institute.

A Tiered Approach Based on Your Preparation

Choose the level that best suits you:

1. The Foundation (Minimum Goal: 5-6 papers)

• Who it's for: Students who have just completed their syllabus.
• What to solve: The latest CBSE Official SQP + the last 4-5 years of Board Papers (PYQs).
• Why: This will give you a complete understanding of the exam pattern, question types, and important topics.

2. The Sweet Spot (Ideal Goal: 8-10 papers)

• Who it's for: Students aiming for scores above 90%.
• What to solve: The Foundation pack + 3-4 additional mock papers from different sources.
• Why: This helps you master time management and exposes you to a wider variety of questions, preparing you for any surprise in the actual exam.

3. The Finisher (For Toppers: 12+ papers)

• Who it's for: Students aiming for 98% and above, who have finished their syllabus and revision early.
• What to solve: The Sweet Spot pack + additional challenging papers from various reputed books/institutes.
• Why: At this stage, the goal is to perfect your strategy, shave minutes off your time, and practice writing flawless answers for even the trickiest questions.

The Most Important Step: Analysis 

Don't just solve a paper and check the score. After every single paper, you must spend 45-60 minutes on analysis:

1. Correct Yourself: Use the official marking scheme, not just a guide.
2. Use an Error Log: Note down every mistake.
3. Categorize Your Errors: Was it a silly calculation mistake? A concept you didn't know? Or did you run out of time?
4. Revise: Go back to the chapter where you made the mistake and revise that specific concept.

Subject-Specific Advice

• Mathematics: Leans towards quantity and variety. The more you practice, the better you get. Aim for the higher end (10-12 papers).
• Science: Needs a balance. Solve papers to practice numericals and learn how to phrase answers for theory questions and draw diagrams. 8-10 papers are ideal.
• Social Science & English: Leans towards quality and writing practice. The goal is to learn how to frame long answers and manage your time. Analyzing 6-8 papers deeply is highly effective.