---
title: CBSE Competency-Based Questions: What They Are and How to Prepare
slug: cbse-competency-based-questions-prepare
source: https://www.swavid.com/blogs/cbse-competency-based-questions-prepare
---

# CBSE Competency-Based Questions: What They Are and How to Prepare

## Quick Answer
CBSE Competency-Based Questions (CBQs) are designed to assess a student's ability to apply knowledge, skills, and attitudes to real-world problems, moving beyond rote memorization. They emphasize critical thinking, analysis, and practical application of concepts learned in Grades 6-10. Effective preparation involves deep conceptual understanding, consistent practice with application-based problems, and developing strong critical thinking skills.

## Who This Helps
- Students in Grades 6-10 preparing for CBSE examinations.
- Parents seeking to understand the evolving CBSE assessment patterns.
- Teachers looking for strategies to implement and assess competency-based learning.
- Educators and policymakers interested in the shift towards application-oriented education in India.

## Key Takeaways
- CBSE Competency-Based Questions (CBQs) assess the application of knowledge and skills, not just factual recall.
- The shift to CBQs aligns with NEP 2020's vision for holistic development and 21st-century skills.
- CBQs feature real-world contexts, require critical thinking, and often involve source-based material.
- Preparation requires understanding the "why" and "how" of concepts, not just the "what."
- NCERT textbooks remain foundational; active reading and analysis of examples are crucial.
- Students must practice varied question types, focusing on justifying reasoning and logical articulation.
- Developing critical thinking through discussions and questioning assumptions is vital for success.
- Personalized learning platforms and AI tools can offer targeted practice and Socratic guidance for CBQs.

## What People Usually Ask
### What are CBSE Competency-Based Questions (CBQs)?
CBSE Competency-Based Questions (CBQs) are a new assessment format designed to evaluate a student's ability to apply learned knowledge, skills, and attitudes to solve complex problems in real-world contexts. Unlike traditional questions, CBQs move beyond simple recall, focusing on how well students can utilize their understanding to analyze, interpret, and provide reasoned solutions.

### Why did CBSE introduce Competency-Based Questions?
CBSE introduced CBQs as part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 vision to shift from rote learning to an application-oriented approach. The goal is to foster higher-order thinking skills, critical analysis, and problem-solving abilities, preparing Indian students for 21st-century challenges and aligning with global educational standards.

### How do CBQs differ from