CBSE Class 12 Accountancy exam 2025 today: Last minute tips to score well

The Accountancy paper consists of 34 questions divided into two parts. Part A has 16 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and 10 descriptive questions, while Part B contains a third of this number. Out of these, only 14 are long-answer questions. According to Dr Ajit Singh, Vice President Academics, Orchids The International School, “MCQs in Accountancy have almost never been difficult in the last five years. If you solve every MCQ from 2019 to 2024, you will be well-prepared.”

Effective textbook revision

Your NCERT textbook is your primary resource. Sonali Bajaj, Educator at Shiv Nadar School Noida, recommends reading through solved questions, as they provide comprehensive coverage of concepts and save revision time. Many one-mark MCQs and competency-based questions are directly sourced from NCERT, making it an invaluable revision tool.

Strategy for cash flow statement

Cash Flow Statements require careful attention. “Always attempt the cash flow statement when your head is calm,” advises Dr Ajit Singh. Allocate 35-45 minutes to ensure accuracy. Read carefully, make journal entries first, and only then proceed with calculations. Missing even a single entry can throw off the entire solution.

Conceptual clarity and syllabus awareness

According to Sonali Bajaj, “Accountancy is not just about calculations, but about logical reasoning and methodical analysis.” She stresses the importance of conceptual clarity over rote memorization. Revise journal and ledger basics, as they form the foundation of the subject. Ensure you have gone through the latest CBSE sample paper to understand the pattern and types of competency-based questions.

Visual aids for better understanding

Creating flowcharts and diagrams can simplify complex concepts. Use acronyms for Balance Sheet terminology and flowcharts for Cash Flow Statements to make recall easier during the exam. This technique helps break down information into visually digestible formats.

Prioritizing practice over reading

Solving a variety of problems is essential. As Sonali Bajaj puts it, “Accountancy requires practice, not just reading.” Work on previous years’ question papers, sample papers, and numerical problems with pen and paper to build speed and accuracy.

One of the most critical aspects of Accountancy is journal entries. As Dr Ajit Singh emphasizes, “Every journal entry gets you marks. Even if your final answer doesn’t tally, correct journal entries ensure partial marks.” To maximize your score, repeatedly practice writing journal entries. This builds confidence and minimizes errors during the exam.

On the day before the exam, avoid last-minute cramming of formulas and Balance Sheet headings. These should already be memorized well in advance. Stay composed and trust your preparation. Dr Ajit Singh highlights, “Confidence comes from familiarity. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will be in the exam hall.”

Time management during the exam

Use the first 15 minutes of reading time wisely. Sonali Bajaj advises spending the first 10 minutes analyzing the question paper and the next 5 minutes formulating an answering strategy. You can either start with one-mark questions to build momentum or begin with six-mark questions to ensure adequate time for complex problems. Choose the method that suits your strengths best.

Strategic time allocation for the exam

Candidates must note that these timings are indicative, and should be adjusted based on individual strengths and the actual exam conditions.

Structured answering techniques

When answering, always read the last line of the question carefully—it indicates whether you need to pass journal entries, create ledger accounts, or prepare a Balance Sheet. Keep rough work organized in the margins to easily track calculations and errors. Attempt all questions in order within a section, leaving space for questions you plan to revisit later.

CBSE Class 12 Accountancy exam: Key subject-specific tips

Partnership Accounts

When dealing with interest calculations, carefully interpret phrases like “per annum” and “average period.” Interest on capital is generally calculated on the opening balance unless additional capital is introduced or withdrawn. Distinguish between appropriation (partners’ salary, interest on capital) and charges (manager’s commission, rent to partners) to avoid misclassification errors. As Sonali Bajaj points out, goodwill adjustments should account for abnormal gains and losses, and all calculations must be meticulously verified.

Company Accounts

For Share Capital, differentiate between applied and allotted shares. Be cautious while calculating Capital Reserve, especially in reissue scenarios. Remember that shares cannot be issued at a discount (except sweat equity), but can be reissued at a discount. If the surplus application money is not explicitly mentioned, assume it is adjusted against allotment.

Financial Statement Analysis

Ratio analysis questions require precise attention to wording—“2 times more than” is different from “2 times.” When handling proposed dividends, remember that the previous year’s dividend is added to net profit before tax and extraordinary items in the Cash Flow Statement, while the current year’s proposed dividend is a contingent liability. Always prepare working notes to secure marks even if the final answer is incorrect.

Exam hall essentials

Carry a transparent pouch with the required stationery—blue pens, pencils, a scale, an eraser, and a sharpener. Avoid fancy pouches and digital/smartwatches. Sonali Bajaj advises wearing a simple analog watch to track time since digital watches are not allowed.

On the day before the exam, avoid last-minute cramming of formulas and Balance Sheet headings. These should already be memorized well in advance. Stay composed and trust your preparation. Dr Ajit Singh highlights, “Confidence comes from familiarity. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will be in the exam hall.”