By Shikha Chauhan :
With the Class 12 CBSE Sociology exam just around the corner, students must focus on smart revision and effective exam strategies rather than starting anything new. Understanding the exam pattern and following strategic preparation methods can help in achieving success. Here are some last-minute preparation tips to maximise your performance:
Exam Pattern Overview
The Sociology question paper is structured into four sections with a total of 35 compulsory questions:
Section A (Q.1–16): Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
Section B (Q.17–25): Very short answer questions, 2 marks each, with a word limit of 30 words.
Section C (Q.26–32): Short answer questions, 4 marks each, with a word limit of 80 words.
Section D (Q.33–35): Long answer questions, 6 marks each, with a word limit of 200 words.
Q.33 is based on graphics.
Q.34 is based on a given passage.
Tips for Effective Preparation
1. Understand the Syllabus – Revise all topics thoroughly and focus on key sociological concepts, thinkers, and theories. Focus on topics like social institutions, movements, change, and globalisation.
2. Prioritise NCERT & Notes – Stick to NCERT textbooks, as most questions are based on them. Go through self-made notes and highlight important points. Focus on definitions, differences, and examples to strengthen conceptual clarity.
3. Practice MCQs –Revise factual data and key terms. Strengthen conceptual clarity to answer Section A questions accurately.
4. Concise Answers for Short Questions – Stick to the word limit and write precise, to-the-point answers for Sections B and C.
5. Elaborate and Structured Answers – For long answer questions (Section D), use examples, case studies, and relevant sociological terms to enhance your response. Use a structured format: Introduction, Explanation with Examples, Conclusion.
6. Analyse Graphics and Passages Carefully – For Q.33 and Q.34, carefully analyse the diagram, chart, or table, and interpret the provided visuals or texts before framing answers.
7. Time Management – Allocate time wisely across sections to ensure all questions are attempted.
8. Revise Sample Papers – Solve previous years' papers and CBSE sample papers to familiarise yourself with question trends.
9. Time Management During Exam: Allocate time for sections:
MCQs (15-20 min)
Very Short & Short Answers (40-50 min)
Long Answers (50-60 min)
Leave the last 10-15 minutes for checking of the answers and question numbers.
10. Avoid Last-Minute Stress. Do not start new topics. Focus on revision only. Stay calm and confident; anxiety can affect performance. Get enough rest before the exam. 
With smart preparation and confidence, students can perform well in the exam. Best of luck!
(The author is faculty of Sociology at 
Bhavan’s B P Vidya Mandir Srikrishna Nagar)