ICSE Preparation tips: Class 10 Commercial Studies paper II structure, topics and tips

If you are someone who will be sitting for the Commercial studies paper this year for ICSE 2023 then worry not as The Telegraph Online Edugraph brings you the paper structure, important topics, and expert tips to crack the paper from Sarika Lahoti, senior Commerce teacher from Delhi Public School Newtown, Kolkata.

ICSE Commercial Studies Part II Class 10 Paper Structure

The Question Paper consists of two sections- Section A and Section B

Section A consists of four questions, all to be answered compulsorily.

• Question 1 consists of 16 Multiple Choice Questions of 1 mark each.

• Questions are based on concept testing. Some questions are application based.
• The elimination method should be used while answering. The least possible options to be eliminated, till you reach the appropriate answer.
• MCQs should be answered serially.
• Both the serial number and the word/text of the correct answer should be written in the answer sheet.

• Question 2, 3 and 4 all consist of 4 parts with 2 marks weightage each.
• Total break up (Section A only)

Question 1- 16 x 1 mark = 16 marks

Question 2- 4 x 2 marks = 8 marks

Question 3- 4 x 2 marks = 8 marks

Question 4- 4 x 2 marks = 8 marks

Total marks - 40

Section B consists of 6 questions, out of which a student needs to answer any four. Each question from Question 5 to 9 has two parts of 5 marks each. Question 10 is a practical sum of 10 marks.

4 questions x 10 marks = 40 marks.

ALSO READ || How to prepare for English language paper 1

Guidelines to answer the paper

• Utilise the reading time properly to choose between the options available in Section B.

Choose those four questions which have definite pointers/explanations rather than vague or too explanatory ones. Prefer to select Question 10 (practical sum) based on your preparation since it has scope to secure full/better marks.

• Keep the marks allotted for each question in mind and accordingly give the keywords/facts related to the topic. Consider each keyword to weigh ½ marks each.
• Avoid writing in long paragraphs. Writing answers in pointers with sub-headings and explanations is suggested for a better score.
• Writing beyond the marks allotted can lead to shortage of time or non-completion of paper. The last minute rush may create panic.
• You can choose to do Question 10 first, in Section B, and then attempt the other three depending on the level of conceptual strength and practice. This may lead to motivation and better attempts at other answers.
• Try to maintain the sequence of the question paper and attempt all chosen questions to the best of your ability.
• Give direct answers and judge the question word. Only write what is required and how much is required.
• Always write comparison based answers in a table format with a relevant basis of distinction.
• Leave a little space after each answer just in case you want to come back and fill up any extra detail on the question once all the selected questions are answered. An extra question can be attempted if you are confident enough and time permits.
• Present your answers well. A neat layout of the answer script is convenient to the examiner. Try and complete the whole answer of a question in the same page. Start a new answer from a fresh page.

Important topics and theories of the subject

Since no chapter-wise weightage is provided, few suggested topics can be prepared thoroughly as a last minute revision which may help secure better marks. These are:

• Expectations of Stakeholders
• Product and Service
• Objectives of Pricing
• Features of Consumer Protection Act 2019
• Concepts/ Features of Capital and Revenue Expenditure
• Utility of Budget
• Functions of Capital Market
• Sources of Recruitment
• Principles of Insurance
• RTGS/NEFT/IMPS
• Financial Frauds
• Final Accounts

Appearing for English Literature paper? Know expert tips here

Timeline for Studying

Selective study is not suggested for Commercial Studies as the subject is quite streamlined and has good prospects of scoring full marks. Hence the whole scope of the syllabus, as prescribed by the Council, should be strictly followed and the following timeline can be adhered to-

January- Completion of the whole syllabus thoroughly

February- Solving specimen papers and other model test papers. Revision of keywords/ important facts in each chapter

Just before exam- Brush up the important topics and read the content thoroughly focusing on the keywords and the sub topics.

Methods of Revision

• First and foremost, make a realistic time schedule dividing the total content of 6 units by the number of hours which can be allotted to the subject day wise.
• Preparing a chapter with the help of mind maps is advisable since a better retention is expected.
• The sub-points can be written and rewritten while learning for a better grasp.
• Writing an important answer after learning, is advisable. This will give a good writing speed and overcome the lack of interest in writing.
• Stick on/ Post-its help in memorising keywords.
• Go through the Pupil Analysis, published by the Council, of the past 3-4 years. This will help in understanding the ways to write answers which are expected. It will also give an idea of some commonly repeated questions/topics.
• Revise through the MCQs given in the Board papers of the last few years and the specimen paper.

How to keep yourself stress free

• Plan your schedule in such a way that there is time for at least 8 hours of proper sleep.
• Do not indulge too much in late night studies.
• Follow a healthy diet and take in a lot of fluids. Keep snacking on healthy munchies like a bowl of salad, nuts or fresh fruits in case you have cravings for food.
• Take a few minutes of break in between for some physical activity or movement instead of getting into gadgets or mobile phones. A ‘Walk and Talk’ with your family or friends is a good option.
• MOST IMPORTANT- Ignore any sort of de-motivating or negative talks and just keep your confidence high.

READ MORE || Commercial Applications paper format, and tips to study