Ace Your Chemistry Exam: Securing 90+ marks in CBSE Class 12 Chemistry requires a strategic approach rather than just hard work. Many students find Chemistry challenging because it combines complex theories, numerical problems, and countless chemical reactions. However, with the right study techniques, consistent practice, and smart preparation, achieving a top score is entirely possible.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through proven strategies, chapter-wise preparation tips, and expert-recommended resources to help you excel in your CBSE Class 12 Chemistry exam. Whether you struggle with organic conversions, inorganic memorization, or physical chemistry calculations, these methods will enhance your understanding and boost your confidence.
1. Know Your Syllabus and Exam Structure Inside Out
Before starting your preparation, familiarize yourself with the latest CBSE Class 12 Chemistry syllabus and marking scheme. The subject is broadly categorized into three sections:
- Physical Chemistry (Numerical-based: Electrochemistry, Chemical Kinetics, Solutions)
- Inorganic Chemistry (Theory-heavy: p-Block, d-Block, Coordination Compounds)
- Organic Chemistry (Reaction-focused: Alcohols, Aldehydes, Biomolecules, Amines)
Exam Pattern Breakdown (Theory: 70 Marks)
- 20 marks – Very Short Answer (1 mark each)
- 24 marks – Short Answer (2-3 marks each)
- 21 marks – Long Answer (5 marks each)
- 5 marks – Case-Based Questions
High-Scoring Chapters to Prioritize
- Electrochemistry (5-6 marks)
- Chemical Kinetics (5 marks)
- Coordination Compounds (5-6 marks)
- Aldehydes & Ketones (6-7 marks)
Understanding the weightage and question trends helps in allocating study time efficiently.
2. Build a Smart Study Schedule
A well-organized study plan is the backbone of scoring 90+ in Chemistry. Follow these steps:
a) Daily Study Routine (2-3 Hours Dedicated to Chemistry)
- Morning (1 hour) – New concepts & theory
- Evening (1 hour) – Numericals & reactions practice
- Night (30 mins) – Quick revision of daily topics
b) Weekly Study Strategy
- Monday-Wednesday – Physical Chemistry (Numericals)
- Thursday-Friday – Organic Chemistry (Mechanisms & Conversions)
- Saturday – Inorganic Chemistry (Theory & Memorization)
- Sunday – Full-length test + Weak area revision
c) NCERT is Your Best Friend
- Stick to NCERT textbooks—most board questions come directly from them.
- Highlight important reactions, definitions, and diagrams.
- Solve all in-chapter examples and back exercises—they often appear in exams.
d) Maintain a Revision Notebook
- Jot down formulas, exceptions, and key reactions in a separate notebook.
- Create mind maps for organic chemistry pathways.
- Use color-coding for better visual memory.
3. Conquer Organic Chemistry with Conceptual Clarity
Organic Chemistry is scoring if approached correctly. Here’s how to master it:
a) Focus on Reaction Mechanisms
- Understand why and how reactions occur (e.g., Nucleophilic Substitution, Elimination).
- Practice electron-pushing arrows to visualize mechanisms.
b) Master Name Reactions
- Must-know reactions:
- Grignard Reaction
- Friedel-Crafts Alkylation
- Wurtz Reaction
- Hoffmann Bromamide Degradation
c) Practice Conversion Problems Daily
- Learn 2-3 step conversions (e.g., Benzene to Acetophenone).
- Learn the conditions and reagents by heart (for example, LiAlH4 converts carboxylic acids to alcohols).
4. Excel in Physical Chemistry with Problem-Solving Skills
Physical Chemistry carries high-weightage numericals. Strengthen this section by:
a) Formula Mastery
- Memorize key formulas:
- Nernst Equation (Electrochemistry)
- Van’t Hoff Factor (Solutions)
- Arrhenius Equation (Chemical Kinetics)
b) Practice NCERT & PYQs Numericals
- Solve at least 5 numericals daily from NCERT and past papers.
- Time yourself to improve speed.
c) Understand Derivations
- Practice derivations step-by-step (e.g., Integrated Rate Laws).
- Write them 3-4 times to retain better.
5. Simplify Inorganic Chemistry with Smart Techniques
Inorganic Chemistry is memory-intensive but scoring if revised strategically.
a) Periodic Table Trends
- Atomic radius, Ionization Energy, Electronegativity trends.
- Oxidation states of Transition Metals.
b) Coordination Compounds
- Learn IUPAC naming rules.
- Draw structures of complexes (e.g., [Co(NH3)6]³⁺).
c) Use Mnemonics for Memorization
- Example: “Poor Sir, Could Not Memorize All Formulas” for P-Block elements (Group 15-18).
6. Test Yourself with Mock Papers & PYQs
Practicing CBSE sample papers and previous years’ papers is non-negotiable for 90+.
a) Exam Simulation
- Take 3-hour timed tests weekly.
- Follow official CBSE marking scheme while checking answers.
b) Error Analysis
- Identify repeated mistakes (e.g., calculation errors, missing units).
- Relearn those topics immediately.
c) Focus on Presentation
- Write neatly with headings and subheadings.
- Underline key terms for better readability.
7. Score Full Marks in Practical Exams (30 Marks)
Chemistry practicals contribute 30 marks, so prepare thoroughly.
a) Lab Work Preparation
- Practice titration (Acid-Base, Redox) until confident.
- Master salt analysis steps.
b) Project & Viva Tips
- Prepare short notes on experiments.
- Revise common viva questions (e.g., indicators, apparatus uses).
8. Final Week Revision Strategy
- Day 1-2: Revise Organic Name Reactions & Mechanisms.
- Day 3-4: Practice Physical Chemistry Numericals.
- Day 5-6: Go through Inorganic Short Notes.
- Day 7: Solve 1 full sample paper.
Last-Day Tips
- Avoid new topics.
- Sleep well before the exam.
- Carry all necessary stationery (calculator, pens, pencil).
Final Words of Motivation
Achieving a score of 90+ in CBSE Class 12 Chemistry requires planning rather than luck. Follow this roadmap, stay disciplined, and success will be yours.https://byjus.com/chemistry/tips-to-get-90-marks-in-cbse-class-12-chemistry/
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