EnglishCBSE Class 10 · Writing Skills

Analytical Paragraph Writing for CBSE Class 10

Updated 14 October 2026 · Fact-checked

The analytical paragraph is Question 5 of the CBSE Class 10 English paper: one of two inputs, 100-120 words, 5 marks. The input may be cues (features, pros and cons), SWOT notes or a chart or table. Marks go to content (2: points analysed), organisation (2: one linked paragraph with a conclusion) and accuracy (1).

Whatever the input, analyse it rather than copy it, write one linked paragraph ending in a conclusion, and remember marks split 2, 2 and 1.

Illustration drawn for QuestionBuddy.

Understand Analytical Paragraph Writing

What the question is. In Section B (Writing), Question 5 gives you two options, A and B; you answer one. The syllabus line reads 'Analytical Paragraph on a given Map/ Chart/ Graph/ Cue/s', in 100-120 words, for 5 marks. Your job is not to copy the input but to analyse it: say what each point means, compare points, and reach a reasoned conclusion, in one formal paragraph with no title.

The four kinds of input you must be ready for.
1. Feature or detail cues: a list of features of a product, place or facility. The 2026-27 sample paper's option A gives the features of a student desk organiser and asks why it would be a good purchase, considering sustainability, organisation, space, functionality and appeal. Recent papers set similar lists: a school bag in the 2024-25 sample paper, a children's park in a 2025 board paper, and a mall fun zone, a pre-school and a community library in 2026 board papers.
2. Issue cues with pros and cons: points for and against something, such as the internet, artificial intelligence, social media or e-learning, which you must weigh.
3. SWOT notes: a table of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats about a decision. The 2026-27 sample paper's option B gives SWOT notes on whether a student should become president of the debate club, and asks you to evaluate whether it is advisable.
4. Data: a bar graph, pie chart, line graph or table. These still appear (for example a comparison of Kharif and Rabi crops in a 2026 paper), so keep the chart method ready.

What the marks reward. Recent marking schemes split the 5 marks as:

Content: 2 marks: at least four points from the input analysed with clarity (feature plus its benefit, or point plus its effect), not merely listed;
Organisation: 2 marks: a single paragraph with a clear opening, a logical grouping of ideas, linking words, a formal tone and a conclusion;
Accuracy: 1 mark: grammar, spelling, punctuation, and staying near 100-120 words.

The core skill: point → so what. A list ('It has adjustable shelves. It has an anti-slip base.') earns little. Analysis links each point to a consequence: 'Adjustable shelves let students fit books of different sizes, so nothing is left lying on the desk.' For SWOT and pros-and-cons inputs, the skill is weighing: group the positives, group the negatives with a contrast linker (However, On the other hand), then give a balanced, often conditional, verdict ('He should accept only if…'). For charts, it is comparison: highest and lowest, trends and differences, with figures.

Shape of every answer. Opening (about 20 words): what the input is about and your overall view or the main pattern. Body (about 70-80 words): grouped points, each with its effect, joined by linkers. Conclusion (about 15-20 words): a verdict, recommendation or inference. Write it as one paragraph.

Analytical Paragraph Writing: rules and format

1
Word limit and form: 100-120 words, one paragraph, no title
Begin directly: 'The study lamp described is a sensible buy for a Class 10 student because…'
The 2026-27 marking scheme models single paragraphs without titles. Far longer or far shorter answers lose the accuracy mark.
2
Marking split: content 2, organisation 2, accuracy 1
Content = four or more points analysed; organisation = opening, grouped points, linkers, conclusion; accuracy = clean language.
Plan to earn each part separately.
3
Feature cues: group the features under the factors the question names
Question names sustainability, space and appeal → one or two sentences on each, each feature tied to a benefit.
Use the question's own factors as your skeleton; it shows organisation.
4
Turn every cue into 'feature + so what'
Cue: anti-slip base → 'Its anti-slip base keeps it steady on a smooth table, so it will not topple when books are pulled out.'
Copying cues word for word, as a list, is description, not analysis.
5
Pros and cons: positives, then a contrast linker, then negatives, then a balanced verdict
'…Moreover, it saves travel time. However, long screen hours strain the eyes… On balance, …'
Do not end with a one-sided verdict if the input is balanced.
6
SWOT: Strengths + Opportunities against Weaknesses + Threats, then a conditional recommendation
'Overall, she should accept the role only if she can keep two evenings a week free for revision.'
Strengths and weaknesses are internal; opportunities and threats are outside chances and risks. A good answer says what would tip the decision.
7
Charts and tables: introduction, highest and trend, comparisons with figures, conclusion
'Rice dominates Kharif output, whereas wheat leads among Rabi crops…'
Quote figures accurately and compare them; do not explain causes the data does not show as if they were facts.
8
Linkers carry the organisation marks
Addition: moreover, in addition, also. Contrast: however, whereas, on the other hand. Result: therefore, as a result, so. Conclusion: overall, on balance, it can be inferred that.
Use at least three different linkers.
9
Tone and tense
Formal and objective: 'This makes it…', not 'I think it is super cool!'
Present tense for features and data; no exclamation marks or slang.

How to answer Analytical Paragraph Writing questions

Spend two minutes planning before you write. First decide which of the four input types you have, then follow its branch.

1Read both options and pick the one where you can see at least four clear points and a conclusion in under a minute.
2Underline the task verb and any factors named in the question (analyse why it is a good purchase; evaluate whether it is advisable; compare; consider sustainability, space…). These set your skeleton.
3Feature cues: group the features under the named factors; beside each, write a short 'so what' (benefit for the user).
4Pros and cons: list two or three strongest positives and two or three strongest negatives; decide a balanced verdict.
5SWOT: pair Strengths with Opportunities (reasons for) and Weaknesses with Threats (reasons against); decide a verdict with a condition.
6Charts or tables: find the highest, lowest, trend and one striking comparison; note the figures.
7Write the opening (about 20 words) with your overall judgement or the main pattern.
8Write the body (70-80 words), one group at a time, joined by linkers; never just list.
9Write the conclusion (15-20 words): verdict, recommendation or inference. Count words and check spelling.

Analytical Paragraph Writing in real life

The idea, met in an everyday situation. Answer the question in your own words, then compare with the model answer. The one-line hook is what to remember.

SWOT-style weighing of a decision

Suppose your elder cousin in Class 10 has been offered a weekend job of four hours every Saturday at a local bookshop, and her parents ask you to help her think it through.

Sort the following into strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, then write the two sentences that would end an analytical paragraph: earns pocket money; learns to handle customers; loses Saturday study time; owner may offer a longer holiday job; tiring before Monday tests; meets people who love reading.

Try it first, then show the solutionSolution

Strengths (for her, inside her control): earns pocket money; learns to handle customers.
Weaknesses (inside): loses Saturday study time.
Opportunities (outside chances): the owner may offer a longer holiday job; she meets people who love reading.
Threats (outside risks): tiredness before Monday tests.
Weigh them: real gains in skills and money, against a risk to study time in a board-exam year; the deciding factor is whether she can protect her revision time.

Answer: On balance, the job offers useful skills and future openings, but it competes with study time in a crucial year. She should accept only if she can keep Sunday free for revision and pause the job during examination months.

Memory hook: Two for, two against, one condition: that is how a SWOT paragraph ends.

Tricks to remember Analytical Paragraph Writing

Short memory aids. Say each one aloud once, then use it on a question the same day.

Point → So what
Every cue you use must be followed by 'so…', 'which means…' or 'as a result…'.
Use it when: Turns a list into analysis for the content marks.
SO for, WT against
Strengths and Opportunities argue for; Weaknesses and Threats argue against.
Use it when: Grouping SWOT notes quickly.
20-80-20
About 20 words to open, 70-80 to analyse, 15-20 to conclude.
Use it when: Staying within 100-120 words.
Three linkers minimum
One to add (moreover), one to contrast (however), one to conclude (overall).
Use it when: Securing the organisation marks.

Analytical Paragraph Writing: solved examples

Ordered from board level to HOTS. Try each one before you open the solution.

Example 1: Feature cues: a product evaluation · 5 marks · Long answerBoard level

Read the details of a solar study lamp listed on a shopping website:
• charges in sunlight during the day; no electricity bill
• three brightness settings, including a warm reading mode
• foldable arm that fits in a school bag
• battery lasts eight hours on a full charge
• made from recycled plastic
• one-year replacement warranty
Write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words analysing why this lamp would suit a Class 10 student, considering cost, comfort, portability, reliability and environmental impact.

Try it first, then show the solutionSolution

Content (2): at least four features, each tied to a student benefit (cost, eye comfort, portability, long use, environment).
Organisation (2): verdict in the opening; features grouped under the five factors in the order given; linkers; concluding judgement.
Accuracy (1): formal language, no list, 100-120 words.

Answer: Model paragraph (about 115 words):

The solar study lamp described is a practical choice for a Class 10 student. Since it charges in sunlight, it adds nothing to the family's electricity bill, which keeps running costs at zero. Moreover, its three brightness levels, including a warm reading mode, allow students to adjust the light for long study hours and reduce eye strain. The foldable arm fits easily into a school bag, so it can travel to tuition classes or a relative's home. A battery that lasts eight hours means study need not stop during power cuts. In addition, recycled plastic makes it environmentally responsible. Finally, the one-year warranty protects the purchase. Overall, the lamp offers comfort, reliability and value.

Example 2: SWOT: evaluating a decision · 5 marks · Long answerHOTS / competency

Tanvi, a Class 10 student, has been asked to edit the school magazine, which needs about six hours a week for three months. Study the notes and write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words evaluating whether she should accept.
Strengths: improves her writing and editing skills; she enjoys leading a team
Weaknesses: less time for revision; she finds it hard to say no to extra work
Opportunities: her name in print; a certificate useful for future applications; chance to interview local achievers
Threats: deadlines clash with pre-board examinations; stress if the team misses deadlines

Try it first, then show the solutionSolution

Content (2): strengths and opportunities analysed as reasons for; weaknesses and threats as reasons against; not copied as a list.
Organisation (2): framing sentence; positives; 'However' turn to risks; weighing; conditional recommendation.
Accuracy (1): formal tone, correct grammar, 100-120 words.

Answer: Model paragraph (about 114 words):

Editing the school magazine is an attractive offer for Tanvi, but it demands careful thought. On the positive side, the role would sharpen her writing and editing skills, and since she enjoys leading a team, she is likely to do it well. It also brings outside rewards: her name in print, a certificate for future applications and the chance to interview local achievers. However, six hours a week will cut into revision, and the deadlines clash with the pre-board examinations. Because she finds it hard to refuse extra work, the stress could grow if the team falls behind. On balance, she should accept only if the teacher allows a lighter role during the pre-boards.

Example 3: Pros and cons cues: an issue · 5 marks · Long answerHarder board level

Using the cues and your own ideas, write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words on online gaming among teenagers.
Pros: improves quick thinking and hand-eye coordination; team games build cooperation; a way to relax
Cons: hours of screen time; poor sleep; in-game purchases waste money; contact with strangers online

Try it first, then show the solutionSolution

Content (2): at least two pros and two cons, each explained with an effect.
Organisation (2): opening that states the two-sided nature; pros; contrast linker; cons; balanced conclusion.
Accuracy (1): formal, error-free, within the limit.

Answer: Model paragraph (about 111 words):

Online gaming has become a major pastime for teenagers, and its effects are mixed. On the one hand, fast-paced games can improve quick thinking and hand-eye coordination. Team-based games also teach players to plan and cooperate, and a short session can help students relax after a long day. On the other hand, the hours spent in front of a screen often cut into sleep, leaving students tired in class. In-game purchases can quietly drain pocket money, and chatting with unknown players exposes teenagers to online risks. Therefore, gaming is neither wholly good nor wholly harmful. With fixed time limits and parental guidance, teenagers can enjoy its benefits while avoiding its dangers.

Example 4: Data: a table comparison · 5 marks · Long answerHarder board level

The table (data for practice) shows the percentage of students in a school who used each mode of study for board preparation in two years:
Mode | 2024 | 2026
Printed guides | 45% | 30%
Online videos | 25% | 40%
Group study | 20% | 15%
Teacher's notes only | 10% | 15%
Write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words.

Try it first, then show the solutionSolution

Content (2): all four modes with both figures; the switch between printed guides and online videos; the smaller changes.
Organisation (2): introduction; biggest change first; smaller changes; conclusion on the overall shift.
Accuracy (1): figures copied correctly; percentage points not confused with percentages.

Answer: Model paragraph (about 105 words):

The table compares how students of a school prepared for their board examinations in 2024 and 2026. The most striking change is the swap between printed guides and online videos. Printed guides fell from 45% to 30%, while online videos rose from 25% to 40%, making videos the most popular mode in 2026. Group study declined slightly, from 20% to 15%. In contrast, the share of students relying only on teacher's notes grew from 10% to 15%. Overall, the data shows a clear shift from printed material to digital learning within two years, although a small but growing group still trusts the teacher's notes alone.

Example 5: Feature cues: a public facility · 5 marks · Long answerHarder board level

Read the details of a new neighbourhood sports complex:
• floodlit football ground open till 9 p.m.
• indoor badminton courts and a table tennis room
• yoga and fitness classes for senior citizens in the morning
• trained coaches at low monthly fees
• rainwater harvesting and solar-powered lights
• wheelchair ramps and separate changing rooms
Write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words analysing how the complex will benefit the community.

Try it first, then show the solutionSolution

Content (2): benefits for different groups (students, working people, elderly, people with disabilities) and for the environment.
Organisation (2): group by beneficiary rather than listing features in the given order; conclusion on community value.
Accuracy (1): formal tone and accurate language.

Answer: Model paragraph (about 109 words):

The new sports complex is designed to serve every section of the neighbourhood. For students and working adults, the floodlit football ground, open till 9 p.m., means they can play even after school or office hours. Indoor badminton and table tennis keep activity going during rain and summer heat. Morning yoga and fitness classes help senior citizens stay healthy and meet others. Since trained coaches are available at low fees, good training is affordable for most families. Wheelchair ramps and separate changing rooms make the facility inclusive. Moreover, rainwater harvesting and solar lights reduce its impact on the environment. Overall, the complex promotes health, fitness and community life responsibly.

Where students lose marks in Analytical Paragraph Writing

The slips examiners see most often, and what to write instead.

Mistake: Copying the cues as a list
Students think covering every cue earns content marks.
Wrong working
It has adjustable shelves. It has an anti-slip base. It comes in two colours.
Right working
Adjustable shelves let students fit books of all sizes, while the anti-slip base keeps the organiser steady on a smooth desk.
Do this: Follow every feature with its benefit ('so', 'which means').
Usually costs: 1-2 content marks and the organisation marks.
Mistake: One-sided verdict on SWOT or pros-and-cons input
Students pick a side early and ignore the other half of the notes.
Wrong working
He should definitely become president because it builds leadership.
Right working
He should accept only if he can plan his time so that board preparation does not suffer.
Do this: Cover both sides, then give a weighed, conditional verdict.
Usually costs: 1-2 marks.
Mistake: Several short paragraphs or a title
Habits from letter or article writing.
Wrong working
A heading 'My Analysis' followed by three paragraphs.
Right working
One paragraph, no title, starting with the opening sentence.
Do this: Remember: it is called a paragraph.
Usually costs: Up to 1 organisation mark.
Mistake: No conclusion
Students run out of words after the points.
Wrong working
…It also has a warranty. (ends)
Right working
…Overall, the lamp offers comfort, reliability and value.
Do this: Reserve 15-20 words for the conclusion when you plan.
Usually costs: 1 organisation mark.
Mistake: Inventing facts not in the input
Students try to sound impressive.
Wrong working
This lamp is the best-selling lamp in India.
Right working
Its eight-hour battery means study need not stop during power cuts.
Do this: Add your own reasoning, not new facts or figures.
Usually costs: Content credibility; possible loss of a content mark.

Exam tips

Read both options before choosing; pick the one where you can see four points and a verdict quickly.
Use the factors named in the question (for example sustainability, space, appeal) as the order of your paragraph.
For SWOT, write 'However' before the weaknesses and threats; examiners look for the turn.
Keep a word count in the margin after each sentence; aim for about 115.
For charts and tables, quote figures exactly and compare them; do not explain causes as facts.
Leave one minute to check spelling, subject-verb agreement and the final sentence.

Practice questions on Analytical Paragraph Writing

Write each answer on paper first. Open the hint only if you are stuck, and the answer only when you have finished.

Q1 · 5 marks · Long answerBoard level
Read the details of an eco-friendly water bottle sold online:
• steel body keeps water cold for 12 hours
• leak-proof lid with a carry loop
• fits standard school-bag side pockets
• no plastic parts; fully recyclable
• dishwasher safe
Write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words analysing why it is a good buy for school students.
Hint
Group: health and comfort (cold water), convenience (lid, pocket, cleaning), environment (no plastic).
Answer
Value points: verdict in the opening; cold for 12 hours → refreshing water through the day and in summer; leak-proof lid and loop → no spills on books, easy to carry; fits side pockets → convenient; no plastic, recyclable → environment-friendly, no plastic waste; dishwasher safe → easy cleaning and hygiene; conclusion on value. Organisation: grouped under health, convenience, environment, with linkers; one paragraph of 100-120 words.
Q2 · 5 marks · Long answerBoard level
Read the pros and cons of school uniforms and, using your own ideas, write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words.
Pros: sense of equality; saves time choosing clothes; school identity
Cons: limits self-expression; cost of several sets; uncomfortable in very hot weather
Hint
Explain each point's effect; end with a balanced view, perhaps suggesting comfortable fabrics.
Answer
Value points: opening that uniforms are debated; pros: equality (no pressure to show off expensive clothes), time saved each morning, pride in the school; However: limits self-expression, several sets are costly for some families, heavy fabrics uncomfortable in heat; conclusion: uniforms are useful if designed to be affordable and comfortable (e.g. lighter summer uniforms). One paragraph with linkers, 100-120 words.
Q3 · 5 marks · Long answerHarder board level
Arjun's family is deciding whether to buy an electric scooter. Study the SWOT notes and write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words evaluating whether they should buy it.
Strengths: low running cost; no fuel needed; quiet
Weaknesses: higher purchase price; must be charged for several hours
Opportunities: government subsidy on electric vehicles; charging points being added in the area
Threats: battery replacement is expensive; limited range on long trips
Hint
Weigh lifetime savings against upfront and battery costs; make the recommendation depend on how far they usually travel.
Answer
Value points: framing (a costly but forward-looking choice); for: low running cost and no fuel save money over time, quiet ride, subsidy lowers the price, more local charging points; against: higher price, long charging time, costly battery replacement, limited range; verdict: worth buying if most trips are short city rides and they can charge at home; not ideal for frequent long journeys. One paragraph with linkers and a conditional conclusion.
Q4 · 5 marks · Long answerHOTS / competency
A student wrote this answer to a feature-cue question about a school library: 'The library has 5000 books. It has computers. It has a reading corner. It has newspapers. It is open after school. This is a good library.' (a) Explain why this would score low on content and organisation. (b) Rewrite it as a short analytical paragraph of about 100 words.
Hint
Every sentence is a bare feature; there is no 'so what', no grouping and no linkers.
Answer
(a) It only lists features copied from the cues, without saying how each helps students (content), and it has no opening judgement, grouping, linkers or reasoned conclusion (organisation); it is also too short. (b) Model: 'The school library is well equipped to support both study and reading for pleasure. With 5000 books, students can find material for projects as well as fiction for leisure. In addition, the computers allow them to research topics that books may not cover. A quiet reading corner encourages the habit of reading, while daily newspapers keep students informed about current events. Moreover, since the library stays open after school, students who lack a quiet place at home can study there. Overall, the library is a valuable resource that helps students learn independently and develop a lifelong reading habit.'
Q5 · 5 marks · Long answerHarder board level
Read the line graph data (for practice): the number of books borrowed from a town library each year, 2021: 8,000; 2022: 9,500; 2023: 12,000; 2024: 11,000; 2025: 15,000. Write an analytical paragraph in 100-120 words.
Hint
Overall rise, the one fall, the overall change from 8,000 to 15,000.
Answer
Value points: introduction (books borrowed, 2021-2025); steady rise from 8,000 to 12,000 by 2023 (an increase of 4,000); a dip to 11,000 in 2024, the only fall; sharp rise to a peak of 15,000 in 2025; overall the total nearly doubled (an increase of 7,000, about 88%); conclusion: growing reading interest in the town with a brief pause in 2024. Check: 15,000 − 8,000 = 7,000; 7,000 ÷ 8,000 = 0.875.
Q6 · 5 marks · Long answerHOTS / competency
Option A gives the features of a new science park for children; Option B gives SWOT notes on whether a school should replace printed textbooks with tablets. (a) Which option needs a conditional verdict, and why? (b) For Option B, write only the opening sentence and the concluding two sentences of the paragraph, using your own reasonable assumptions about the notes.
Hint
A SWOT evaluation weighs a decision; a feature list usually supports a positive judgement.
Answer
(a) Option B. A SWOT input sets out reasons for and against a decision, so the verdict should weigh them and say under what conditions the decision is wise; a feature list (Option A) asks you to analyse benefits, so a clear positive judgement fits. (b) Opening: 'Replacing printed textbooks with tablets could modernise learning at the school, but the change carries real costs and risks.' Conclusion: 'On balance, the school should introduce tablets gradually, starting with one class, rather than all at once. It should do so only if every student can be given a device and teachers are trained to use them well.'

Test your recall

Answer in your head or on paper first, then open the card. Pulling an answer out of memory makes it stick far better than re-reading.

1.Word limit and marks for the analytical paragraph?Show answer
100-120 words; 5 marks; one of two options.
2.How are the 5 marks split?Show answer
Content 2, organisation 2, accuracy 1.
3.What four kinds of input can be set?Show answer
Feature cues, pros-and-cons cues, SWOT notes, and charts, graphs or tables.
4.What does 'point → so what' mean?Show answer
Each cue must be followed by its effect or benefit, turning a list into analysis.
5.In SWOT, which two boxes argue for the decision?Show answer
Strengths and Opportunities.
6.Is a title needed?Show answer
No; the model answers are single paragraphs without titles.

Analytical Paragraph Writing: frequently asked questions

What is an analytical paragraph in Class 10 English?

A single, formal paragraph of 100-120 words that analyses a given input, such as feature cues, pros and cons, SWOT notes or a chart, and ends with a conclusion. It is Question 5 of the CBSE paper, worth 5 marks.

How do I write an analytical paragraph from cues?

Open with an overall judgement, group the cues under the factors the question names, explain the benefit or effect of each, join ideas with linkers, and end with a verdict or inference.

How do I answer a SWOT-based analytical paragraph?

Group strengths and opportunities as reasons for, weaknesses and threats as reasons against, weigh them with linkers such as 'however' and 'on balance', and give a conditional recommendation.

Are charts and graphs still asked?

Yes. The syllabus lists maps, charts, graphs and cues, and data inputs still appear, so practise comparing figures as well as cue-based answers.

Can I use bullet points or a title?

No. Write one connected paragraph without a title.