Some Important tips for Mathematics exam

Hi friends!! Tensed?? Worried?? No need to worry for mathematics. Mathematics is not at all difficult. All you need is to revise everything and be careful while writing your answers. Here are some tips which will be really helpful for you to score full marks in Maths.

Tips to be followed during Maths exam:

1. In case you get stuck while solving any question, don’t panic. Leave appropriate space and don’t even cross out some of the steps that you may have written. This will ensure that even if you don’t find time to solve the question, the examiners will give some marks as step-wise marking system is followed in Maths exam.

2. Ensure that figures/tables should be on the same page as it saves your time in looking at the figure and finding the solution.

3. Always draw line for rough work on the right hand side of every page. This would minimize the chances of error in noting down the numeric values from rough calculations done on some other page of the answer sheet.

4. Using pencil make neat and clean figures. This would also enable you to change the figure in case need arises. Do not waste time in decorating the figure. A simple figure with perfect labelling will help you get full marks.

5. Write the steps of construction in all the questions involving constructions even if not asked in question.

6. Do not forget to write the statements of the theorems or results used in the solutions. Also, write each and every formula used in solution.
7. Do not forget to write the units in the questions involving dimensions.

General tips:

1. Proper planning is the key to success. Use the initial15 minutes smartly in scanning the entire question paper. Keep on tick marking the questions that you find at your grip. First attempt these questions then the rest.

2. Do not forget to write the section name before solving questions of any section.

3. Extra sheets should be tied in proper order.

4. Try to avoid crossing in answer sheet (specially on first page).

5. Remember to carry the required stationery items like scale, protractor,pencil, eraser etc with you.

6. Enough space (2 lines) should be left in between solutions of two different questions.

7. Your handwriting should be neat and easily readable.

8. Solve only one part of questions having two choices.

9. Manage your time in such a way that you can have enough time to revise your paper as it minimizes the chances of errors.
10. If you do not have any clue to solve some questions and some time is still left out, try to show your effort by writing at least the introductory steps and even etch out figures/diagrams/tables if relevant to the questions.

The way question is solved is most important. So, try to give a perfect answer.

Here is the screenshot of an answer sheet attempted by one of the Class X students who got full marks in mathematics. Look at the way the answer is presented in the answer sheet.

So, just focuss on the following points:

1. Figures with perfect labellings
2. No wastage of time in decoration
3. Step-by-step answering
4. No cutting in the answer sheet
5. Every single word and number must be readable

Click on the link to find out the most common errors that students make:- Math Common Errors in Maths Grade 10

Best of luck!!

19 comments February 29th, 2012

Physics Scoring Tips – Units 6, 7, 8

CBSE has given maximum weightage to the unit Optics with one long answer and some very short and short type answers. Units such as Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter,  Atoms and Nuclei are given low weightage but they are highly scoring if one remembers the formulae, definitions and graphs.

Unit 6: OPTICS (14 marks)

Want to secure a full-five marks score in optics?
A smart way of doing this is practising previous years’ questions and getting common questions. Here is a quick analysis of topics on which questions were asked repeatedly by CBSE in the five marks question pattern.

(You may go through the detailed solution of the board papers by clicking on the hyperlinks)

This analysis gives a clear idea of repetition of questions in board papers. Few topics which are very much essential for further study in physics will always be tested in the board exams.

More the number of previous papers solved, higher the chance of getting COMMON QUESTIONS. Click here for previous years’ board papers.

Unit 7: Dual Nature of Radiation and Matter (4 marks)

Q: An electron is accelerated through a potential difference of 64 volts. What is the de-Broglie wavelength associated with it? To which part of the electromagnetic spectrum does this value of wavelength correspond?   (CBSE 2010, 2 marks)

This question can be easily solved if you know the application of the formula:

Unit 8: Atoms and Nuclei (6 marks)

For mastering this unit you need to master the formulae. Make a list of all the important formulae in this unit with at least one application in numerical solving. Questions from this units are basically definitions, graphs and formula based numericals.

Q: The energy levels of an atom are as shown below. Which of them will result in the transition of a photon of wavelength 275 nm?Which transition corresponds to emission of radiation of maximum wavelength?     (CBSE 2009, 3 marks)

The formula E = hc/λ is sufficient to give you three marks in this question.

So, for this unit make sure you go through Rutherford’s model, Bohr’s model, Hydrogen spectra, Radioactive decays, Nuclear reactions (fission and fusion).

Follow these simple things and we are sure that you’ll manage to add the entire 24 marks from these units into your account.

To revise the formulae based on these units, click on the link: Formula Sheet ( Unit  6, 7, 8 )

Good Luck!
Team Meritnation

3 comments February 29th, 2012

GENERAL TIPS FOR PHYSICS (For Class XII)

Physics is not a literature subject. However, we study the concepts in literary format. But as far as physics is concerned, simply memorizing the notes will do no good. There are units, diagrams, formulas, numericals, concepts, mathematical forms that make this subject quite different from all other subjects.

Don’t panic; just be calm because when you have a will to score high, we are here to show you the way to do it.

Let’s start with the unit-wise distribution of marks as given by the CBSE board.

Unit-wise distribution of marks:

Following are some important points a student must follow to make good use of his knowledge on the subject and score a respectable score.

1. Make a chapter-wise list of all the concepts and the laws you have learned throughout the year.
2. Make a chapter-wise list of all the important SI units, formulae and constants you have learned throughout the year.
3. Always go for mathematical expressions and technical terms while answering the questions.
4. Wherever possible give labelled diagrams to reduce the number of words in your answers.
5. Whenever you draw a circuit, be careful with the direction of current and polarity of cells.
6. Follow standard books for derivations. Do not try to invent new ways for any derivation in the examination hall.
7. Always give step-wise solution to numericals because marks are allotted to each of the steps.
8. Be specific with your answers. Neither write too much nor too less.
9. Make your preparation syllabus-oriented. For last moment preparations, do not think about learning something out of syllabus or new concept.
10. Solve at least 5 previous years’ board papers without choice. This will help you evaluate where you stand and also give you some idea about what to expect.

All the Best!
Team Meritnation

6 comments February 29th, 2012

EXAM TIPS FOR ENGLISH CLASS 10, Chapter – Julius Caesar

In today’s article, we will focus on the key points of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar.

Main characters in the play:

• Marcus Brutus: Supporter of the Republic, friend to Caesar.
• Julius Caesar: Great Roman general and Senator.
• Calipurnia: Wife to Julius Caesar.
• Mark Antony: Friend to Caesar, expert orator
• Cassius:A talented general and long time acquaintance of Caesar.
• Decius Brutus: Co-conspirator in Caesar’s assassination.
• Octavius: Caesar’s adopted son and appointed successor.
• Casca: A public figure opposed to Caesar’s rise to power.

Character traits of some important characters:

• Julius Caesar: Nobleman, Courageous, Law-Abiding, Benevolent, Mighty, Credulous.
• Marcus Brutus: Nobleman, Orator, Learned, Easily Instigated, Lack of will power, Democratic, Advocate of Liberty and Freedom.
• Mark Antony: Expert Orator, Loyal, Faithful, Manipulative, Trustworthy.
• Cassius: Main conspirator, Influential, Persuasive, Witty.

Plot Structure:

• Different interpretations of Calipurnia’s dream and Caesar’s decision to not to go to the Capitol.
• Caesar’s arrival at the Capitol and the humble submission of Cimber before Caesar to repeal the verdict on his brother.
• Assassination of Caesar by his conspirators such as Brutus, Cassius and others who shout ‘Liberty, freedom and enfranchisement’.
• Address of the conspirators to the public justifying their act of murdering Caesar.
• Mark Antony’s funeral speech which turned the mob against the conspirators.

Click on the link for chapter summary:
http://cbse.meritnation.com/cbse-english-literature-reader/julius-caesar/371/2242/tutorials.html

Questions you need to focus on to know the core of the lesson:
1. Importance of Antony’s speech in Julius Caesar.
Or,
Compare Antony’s speech with that of Brutus on Caesar’s funeral.
Or,
How did the mob come to know about the plot of the conspirators who killed Julius Caesar?Or,
Discuss Antony as a fantastic orator.
Or,
What reasons does Brutus give for murdering Caesar and how does Antony contradict his views? Explain by contrasting their motives in their respective funeral speeches.
2. Julius Caesar was an ambitious man. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for the same.
3. Explain the role of superstitions in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar.
Or,
Significance of Calipurnia’s dream in the play Julius Caesar.
4. Antony addresses Brutus as “honourable man”. Why? Give reasons.
5. Who was the main person responsible for the conspiracy against killing Caesar? Give reasons from the text.
6.  What role did Decius play in convincing Caesar to go to the Capitol?
7. On what basis did Antony agree to befriend Cassius and Brutus?
8. Justice wins the race. Or, any wrong deed gets punished in the long run. Explain with reference to the play Julius Caesar.
9. Character sketches of Julius Caesar, Mark Antony, Brutus, Cassius and Calipurnia.
10. Theme of democracy in Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar.
11. Who can be justifiably called the tragic hero in the play Julius Caesar? Give your arguments for the same.

Here are a few RTCs from the text which will give you a comprehensive view of the entire chapter:
1. A lioness hath whelped in the streets;
And graves have yawn’d, and yielded up their dead;

2. This dream is all amiss interpreted;
It was a vision fair and fortunate:

3. Our hearts you see not; they are pitiful;
And pity to the general wrong of Rome–

4. Et tu, Brute! Then fall, Caesar.

5. You shall not in your funeral speech blame us,
But speak all good you can devise of Caesar,

6. But Brutus says he was ambitious;
And Brutus is an honourable man.

7. Now let it work. Mischief, thou art afoot,
Take thou what course thou wilt!

8. In every wound of Caesar that should move
The stones of Rome to rise and mutiny.

18 comments February 28th, 2012

English ( Class 10 )

Dear Students,

We are aware of some topics or areas in which students generally experience confusion and doubt in the grammar section. In our articles we are trying to address these. The present article is all about Subject-verb agreement. We are presenting some of the important rules of the same.

SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT

A singular subject demands a singular verb. Also, a plural subject demands a plural verb. That is the simple rule which needs to be kept in mind in Subject-verb Agreement.

1. Indefinite pronouns such as everyone and everybody might appear to be plural to few, but they are always singular – and thus take a singular verb.
   • Someone has to take a decision.
   • Everybody is held responsible.
2. Do not be confused by phrases that come between the subject pronoun and its verb- phrases that may contain plural words.
   • Each of the team members in the activity is responsible for writing a team report.
   • Everyone in the entire community is silent on the notion of child marriage.
3. The verb that accompanies pronouns such as all and some will be determined by whether the pronoun is referring to something that is countable or not.
   • Some of the students in the canteen are singing.
   • All the clothes are wet.
   • Some of the grain was ruined.
   • Some of the things which need to be taken care of.
4. None usually seems singular but can be used as a plural pronoun too. The singular verb form is used when “none” means “no one” or “not one”. The plural is used when “none” implies more than one thing or person.
   • None of us thinks what she said is correct.
   • None of the local teams are making it to the second round in the tournament.
5. Phrases such as together with, along with, as well as  seem to join two subjects. However, they do not work the same as ‘and’; they do not work as a conjunction.
   • Some of the notes of the classroom, as well as some from the textbooks, have helped me in my exams.
   • Some of my friends, along with their parents, want to visit the Orange festival.
6. When either or neither  is used as a subject alone (without or or nor), they are singular. This holds true even though the subject seems to be two things.
   • I don’t have any preference between Chocolate and Black Current. Either is fine with me.
   • Neither of these solutions is correct.
7. When either or neither act as correlative conjunctions, the subject that is closer to the verb determines the number of verb, being singular or plural.
   • Neither the principal nor the students are to be blamed.
   • Either the students or the class monitor has to bear the responsibility.

The topic subject-verb agreement, no doubt, poses challenge before the students. However, we hope that having gone through this article you have gained insight and confidence over the same which will help you score good marks in the exam.

Wishing you all the very best!

4 comments February 28th, 2012

Trigonometry and Probability (Class 10)

Let us talk about the sections “Trigonometry” and “Probability”.  Both of these are very interesting and have a great appeal to real life. Together they can  add 14 marks to your treasure. Get through the following material to make the final strategy for this duo.

Probability carries the weightage of 6 marks which can be earned by just applying one formula and that is:

Probability of an event = Number of favorable outcomes / Total Number of Outcomes

The most common experiments which are discussed in the questions are as follows:

Here are few questions which are being repeatedly asked on Ask and Answer on these chapters. Follow the link:

http://www.meritnation.com/discuss/question/1804895/find-the-probability-of-getting-53-sundays-in-a-leap-year

http://www.meritnation.com/discuss/question/561488/what-is-the-probability-of-getting-wednesday-in-a-leap-year

http://www.meritnation.com/discuss/question/446669/find-the-probability-that-a-leap-year-selected-at-random-will-contain-53-sundays

http://www.meritnation.com/discuss/question/1822288/two-dice-are-thrown-simultaneously-what-is-the-probability-that-5-will-come-at-each-one

http://www.meritnation.com/discuss/question/1787592/a-b-take-turns-in-throwing-two-dice-the-first-to-throw-a-sum-1o-being-awarded-show-that-if-a-has-the-first-throw-their-chances-of-winning-i

http://www.meritnation.com/discuss/question/1787435/a-pair-of-dice-is-thrown-3-times-if-getting-of-10-as-a-sum-is-a-success-find-the-probability-distribution-of-number-of-success

Apart from that,  questions like “drawing balls from a bag” are very common. So, make the concept to solve these types of questions to get full marks in Probability.

You can get a brief overview of playing cards from the given table.

Similarly, questions related to “throw of two dice”, maximum outcomes are given below as:

In Trigonometry, there is one chapter in the syllabus i.e., “Heights and Distances”. The most interesting thing about the problems of “Heights and Distances” is that if you are able to draw the correct diagram with the given information then the question can be solved very easily. Apart from that, keep the following things in your mind to handle this section.

1. Always draw figure in exam and mark what all dimensions are given to you. Also, mark the required lengths by h, x or any other variable. This will help you to find the remaining lengths required to put in trigonometric ratios used in triangles formed in figure.
2. The angle of elevation is formed when head to be raised to see the object while the angle of depression is formed when head to be lowered to see the object. Both are made between line of sight and the horizontal line.
3. In questions with two unknown variables, always substitute value of one variable found from one triangle into other. This will help you to find the unknown variables easily.

Prepare well! Be confident!

Best of Luck

Add comment February 27th, 2012

Mensuration (Class 10)

Now, 2nd March is not far away and you must be prepared for the D day. Your syllabus is divided in  six sections Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry and Probability. Out of these, each of Algebra and Mensuration contribute 20 marks which means 50% of total marks are covered by these two sections.

If we talk about Mensuration,  here are only two chapters in this section such as “Areas Related to Circles” and “Surface Areas and Volumes”. Both of these chapters come with different varieties of questions, so they need to be taken very seriously.

Few important things which are needed to be taken care of to score well in Mensuration are as follows:

1. Write down all the formulae on a sheet and paste it on your study table to learn all of them by heart.
2. Students find it difficult to find total or curved surface area of combination of solids, so keep it clear in mind that we find the area of the corresponding (curved or whole) surface which can be touched or painted.

For example, let us consider the given solid



This solid is made up of a cube and a hemisphere.

CSA of the solid = CSA of hemisphere
TSA of this solid = TSA of cube + CSA of hemisphere – Area of base of hemisphere
Here, we have subtracted area of base as it is not visible to us and it get added in the area

3. While converting one solid to another remember that the volume of both the solids remain same. So, by equating the volume we can find the dimensions asked in question.
4. Always draw figure in the solution. Do proper labelling as it helps you while calculating area and volume.
5. Take care of values when conversion is being done between two units.
6. To check the area of segment calculated by you is correct or not, you can apply the following formula.

Area of segment =

{ } x2

7. If it is asked to calculate area of sector or segment, you have to find area of minor sector and major segment.
8. Write correct unit in solution. In area, it should always be unit square and in volume, it should always be unit cube. If angle is asked, always write its unit i.e., degree  after the value.

This section demands concentration. So, stay focussed and cross-check your calculations.

Many students know the concept and apply the correct formulae, but a single calculation mistake can deduct the marks.

Best of Luck!

Team Meritnation

3 comments February 27th, 2012

Coordinate Geometry and Circle (Class 10th)

The topics, Coordinate geometry and Circles hold great significance in the exam as you will get questions of more than 10 marks from these two sections. The chapter Circle is based on theorems, whereas Coordinate geometry has only three key formulae such as  Distance formula, Section formula and  Area of a Triangle. Let us see how to beat these two in upcoming exams.

In Circles, you need to memorize few very important theorems which will be applicable in most of the questions from this chapter. Few of them are as follows:

Theorem 1: The tangent at any point on the circle is perpendicular to the radius through the point of contact.

Theorem 2: The lengths of the tangents drawn from an external point to a circle are equal.

Theorem 3: The angle subtended by an arc at the centre of a circle is double the angle subtended by it at any point on the remaining part of the circle.

Theorem 4: Chords subtending equal angles at the centre of a circle are equal in length. The converse is also true.

Theorem 5: The sum of each pair of opposite angles of a cyclic quadrilateral is 180°. It’s converse is also true.

Theorem 6: The perpendicular drawn from the centre of a circle to a chord bisects the chord. The converse is also true.

Theorem 7: Equal chords are equidistant from the centre of the circle. The converse is also true.

Theorem 8: Perpendicular bisector of a chord always passes through the centre of the circle.

Theorem 9: Angles in the same segment of a circle are equal.

Here are few tips which can prove to be very useful for you to grab good score in these chapters:

1. It is very important that after reading the question, you should be able to know which theorem needs to be applied as sometimes questions are asked very cleverly. To identify the same, first of all draw a rough figure, and then try to apply the above theorems on it and write down the extracted information.
2. Most of the questions asked from this chapter, are expected to come from  in-circles, circles inscribed in the quadrilaterals or triangles, cyclic quadrilaterals and parallel tangents. You can identify these questions by drawing the figure.
3. The figure should be clear and labelled as it lends clarity to the solution and fetches you full marks.

For example:



In the above figure, every point is labelled and the radius is also shown.

4. In case of coordinate geometry, be careful about entering the correct coordinates in the formulae. To avoid this problem, always note down the coordinates first. For example, if the given points are  p (-3, 2) and Q(2, -5) then write them as as _x1 = – 3, _y1 = 2,_x2 = 2 and _y2 = – 5.
5. Do not forget to write units with the measures. Sometimes students forget to mention the symbol of angle, triangle, degree etc. which should not be done.

Taking care of these small things can prove to be very helpful for you to lead the race. So, be confident and go for it!

All the Best!

Team Meritnation

1 comment February 27th, 2012

Algebra (Class 10)

Algebra is the most important section as it can add 20 marks to your total score in maths. You need to make a very good strategy for this section.

Algebra has been divided into following two parts:

1. Quadratic equations
2. Arithmetic progressions

When it comes to quadratic equations, there are few things to keep in mind given as follows:

1. When comparing an equation with standard form , always take care of signs of a, b and c. For example can be reduced to . On comparing it with standard form we find that a = 6, b = 5 and c = 4.
2. If the method of obtaining roots is not mentioned in the question and you find it difficult to factorize the equation then do not waste time, just apply the quadratic formula.
3. While solving the equation, be careful about the signs as one wrong entry can make big difference in the answer.
4. If you get the final form of the equation in the form of the identity then there are always two equal roots with opposite signs which are +a and −a. For example, if the reduced form of the equation is as  then the roots will +5 and −5.
5. Sometimes students write the quadratic formula incorrectly as . In the correct formula 2a is denominator for both terms given above. The correct quadratic formula is .
6. Remember the conditions for different types of roots of a quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0, which are as follows:
   1. Two distinct real roots, if b² − 4ac > 0 or b² > 4ac
   2. Two equal real roots, if b² − 4ac = 0 or b² = 4ac
   3. No real roots or imaginary roots if b² − 4ac < 0 or b² < 4ac
7. In order to solve the word problems, first of all assume the value which needs to be find as x. After that read the statement step by step and keep forming the equations according to the conditions given and solve it with any method to find the value of x.

Arithmetic progressions

All of the arithmetic problems are based on the following formulae which are as follows:

1. The  nth term of A.P. is given by aⁿ= a + (n – 1) d.
2. The sum of n terms of an A.P. is given by     or   .

Where a first term, d is common difference and l is the last term of the A.P.

Few of the tips for this section are as follows:

1. While finding the common difference, remember that the previous term is to be subtracted from the next term.
2. Sometimes an A.P. has negative terms, so take care about the signs while finding common difference or entering values in the formula.
3. Most of the mistakes in A.P. problems takes place when students get confused between n^th term and sum of n terms. Remember, when in the given question sum is asked you have to apply the corresponding formula for S_n and when n^th term needs to be find out then apply the formula of  a_n

Apart from this, eat well, take proper rest and keep yourself healthy as a healthy and happy brain can always make a better way out.

All the Best!

2 comments February 27th, 2012

Tips to master the topic Construction (For Class X)

Construction is a comparatively easier section of geometry which is very simple to understand as well as to apply. You will get a 3 marks question for construction.

There are three types of construction in your syllabus

1. Division of a line segment in a given ratio.
2. Construction of a similar triangle to a given triangle.
3. Construction of tangent to a circle from a point outside the circle.

Here are some tips to get a perfect 3 in geometry;

• There are a fixed set of rules to be followed while doing these constructions.
• You just need to follow the steps, one by one and construct the figure accordingly.
• Writing the steps clearly and drawing a clear diagram convince the examiner.
• Before starting the solution it is better to draw a rough figure to get an idea of the construction.
• There is no need to give justification if it is not asked in the question.
• Mention the name of the of every line, point, ray etc. used in the construction.
• Do not get confused whether to use dotted line in the construction or not. Dotted line shows the extended or additional part in the original figure. You can use a normal line as well instead of dotted.
• Do not try any short cuts in the exam hall.

Here is an example of how to bag a perfect score in construction:

Steps of construction:
1) Draw a ray QX making an acute angle with QR on the side opposite to vertex P.

2) Mark 3 points (corresponding to the greater of 2 or 3) X1, X2 and X3 on QX such that QX1 = X1X2 = X2X3.

3) Join X2R (corresponding to the denominator of the given ratio) and draw a line passing through X3 (corresponding to the numerator of the given ratio) parallel to X2R. Let X2R intersect the extended line QR at point R´.

4) Draw a line passing through R´ and parallel to RP, which intersects the extended line PQ at point P´.

5) P´QR´ is the required triangle.

Remember these tips and with a little bit of effort and smartness, constructions would be a cake-walk for you.

All the Best!!

Mathematics Department
Team Meritnation

4 comments February 27th, 2012