Why NCERT matters
CBSE builds its syllabus on NCERT textbooks, and NCERT books are free to read at ncert.nic.in. Most questions you will meet in school exams follow the ideas, examples and exercises in the book. That is why 'finish NCERT first' is the most common advice from teachers.
The 7 steps
- Step 1: Skim. Read the headings, the summary and the figures for 5 minutes. You now know where the chapter is going.
- Step 2: Read slowly. One section at a time, with a pencil. Underline definitions and write a question mark next to anything unclear.
- Step 3: Ask the doubts. Take every question mark to your teacher, or ask Guru about those exact pages.
- Step 4: Solve the examples without looking at the solution, then compare.
- Step 5: Do every exercise. Start with the in-text questions, then the end-of-chapter ones. For extra practice, try the NCERT Exemplar problems where they exist for your class.
- Step 6: Close the book and write five lines from memory: the main ideas, formulas and definitions. That is your note.
- Step 7: Test yourself on the same pages a day later, and put every wrong answer in a mistakes list.
Subject by subject
- Maths: solve the examples yourself before reading the solution. Write every step.
- Science: learn each diagram and label it from memory. Explain each experiment in your own words.
- Social Science: make a timeline or a map for each chapter. Keywords and dates go on flashcards.
- Languages: read the lesson aloud, then write a short summary and answer the questions in your own words.
How long should one chapter take?
A normal chapter of 12 to 20 pages takes about three study sessions: one for reading and doubts, one for the examples and exercises, and one for your five-line note and a short test. Don't rush the first session. Questions are easy once the ideas are clear.
What to do before the exam
- Re-read your five-line notes, not the whole chapter.
- Redo the exercises you got wrong.
- Test yourself on each chapter once more, a week apart.
A book you have studied this way stays in your head. The same book only read twice does not.
Questions
Is NCERT enough for CBSE exams?
NCERT is the base of the CBSE syllabus, so learn it fully, including the examples and exercises. Also practise sample papers and previous years' papers to learn how questions are asked.
Where can I get NCERT books for free?
NCERT textbooks are free to read at ncert.nic.in. You can add the PDF to Gyanmor and ask Guru about the pages you are studying.
How do I remember what I read in NCERT?
Write five lines from memory after each chapter, then test yourself a day later and again a week later. Remembering is built by recalling, not by re-reading.
Can Guru explain NCERT pages in Hindi?
Yes. Guru answers from the pages you pick, in Gujarati, Hindi or English, and you can type or speak your question.
