Best Books to Prepare for Class 12 PCM | Class 12 Board Exam Preparation 2026

Best Books to prepare for Class 12 PCM: Preparing for the Class 12 PCM board exams in 2026 isn’t just about studying hard — it’s about studying smart. With CBSE’s updated pattern focusing more on application and concept-based questions, students must choose the right mix of theory books, reference materials, and practice resources. This guide simplifies that decision for you. Whether you’re struggling with conceptual clarity in Physics or seeking good question banks for Chemistry and Maths, this blog will walk you through the best books to prepare for Class 12 PCM and strategies that align with the 2026 exam pattern.

Major Update: CBSE Is Changing the Game

The CBSE board has officially started shifting its exam pattern since 2024. This change is a fundamental shift in how questions are framed and evaluated. Here’s what you can expect in the 2026 board exams:

• More application-based questions that test how well you understand and apply concepts, not just memorize them.
  
• Increase in MCQs, assertion-reason, and case-based questions, especially in subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
  
• Less direct and memory-based questions which means just reading and memorizing NCERT won’t be enough.
  

This change makes it essential for students to focus not only on learning theory but also on practicing diversified question types. Your books must reflect this change, look for materials that align with the latest exam structure.

Must-Have Book for All Subjects: NCERT Class 12 PCM 

Before anything else, remember this: NCERT is your Bible. Whether it’s Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Biology, or English — NCERT is your top priority. Build your theory from it and solve all NCERT back questions thoroughly. A lot of direct board questions come from here.

Physics

• Theory: NCERT + Class Notes/YouTube one-shots
  
• Reference Books:
  
  • Pradeep’s Physics – Great for clearing in-depth concepts.
    
  • S.L. Arora – Very popular and reliable for board-level prep.
    
• Question Bank: MTG 100% Question Bank – Structured with MCQs, Assertion-Reason, Case-Based, and long-form questions.
  

Chemistry

• Theory: NCERT (especially for Organic & Inorganic) is non-negotiable.
  
• Reference Books:
  
  • Pradeep’s Chemistry – Helpful if you need deeper clarity.
    
• Question Bank: MTG 100% Chemistry Question Bank – Includes concept-based, tricky questions and previous year trends.
  

Mathematics

• Theory: NCERT + Classroom help (if available)
  
• Reference Books:
  
  • R.D. Sharma – For concept clarity and extra practice.
    
  • NCERT Exemplar – For advanced problem solving (available for free online).
    
• Practice Resource: If you’re part of a coaching class, their DPPs (Daily Practice Problems) are very effective.
  

Question Bank vs Reference Books — What’s the Difference?

• Reference Books: Ideal when you’re stuck in theory or want extra practice.
  
• Question Banks: Contain theory + a variety of questions, including:
  
  • MCQs
    
  • Assertion-Reason
    
  • Case-Based
    
  • 2/3/5 Mark Descriptive Questions
    Plus, they often include concise notes, mind maps, and level-based questions to train your brain for every question type.
    

Theory & Practice:

• NCERT is 100% essential.
  
• Modern ABC Biology – Popular as an extra reference.
  
• MTG Biology Question Bank – Great for covering new CBSE patterns.

English

Unlike PCM subjects, English doesn’t require multiple books or resources. Here’s what you should do:

• Stick to the NCERT textbook (Flamingo & Vistas) and read each chapter/poem thoroughly.
  
• Follow your school teacher’s notes, which often include grammar tips, answer formats, and key questions.
  
• Focus on improving your comprehension skills and writing formats (notice writing, letters, articles, etc.)

Why Are MTG 100% Question Banks Recommended? 

MTG’s 100% Question Banks have become a go-to resource for thousands of CBSE students and for good reason:

• Strictly CBSE-pattern based: Every question type is in line with the latest CBSE exam blueprint.
• Covers all question formats: MCQs, Assertion-Reason, Case-based, Descriptive — you get it all.
• Includes concise notes: Before questions, it gives you quick revision notes and mind maps.
• Level-based questions: Starts from basic and gradually moves to high-difficulty ones.
• Highly structured: Chapters are neatly divided and organized for smooth practice.
  

These features make MTG a must-have, especially for those aiming to improve speed, accuracy, and confidence in exams.

Final Words: Best Books To Prepare for Class 12 PCM

Best Books To Prepare for Class 12 PCM: To score well in the Class 12 Board Exams 2026, it’s important to follow a smart and focused study plan. Start with NCERT as your primary book for all subjects, and make sure you understand each concept clearly. Use reference books like Pradeep’s or R.D. Sharma to strengthen your grip on tough topics. 

For practice, solve a variety of question types from reliable question banks like MTG 100%, which follow the latest CBSE pattern. Keep revising regularly and take weekly self-tests to track your progress. For English, stick to NCERT and school notes. With the right resources, early preparation, and consistent effort, you’ll be fully ready to perform your best in the 2026 board exams.