This free CBSE Class 8 maths practice paper 2026-27 focuses on the topics that bridge middle school and board-level maths: algebraic expressions and identities, mensuration of 2D and 3D figures, data handling including probability, and powers and exponents with laws of indices. Class 8 is the final year before the high-stakes Classes 9 and 10, making it a critical time to ensure conceptual foundations are secure. The 20 MCQ questions in this paper are calibrated to test both formula recall and conceptual application — the combination that separates strong scorers from the rest. Parents preparing their child for Class 9 transitions or competitive exams will find this paper a valuable diagnostic. Free, A4-printable, with a complete answer key included.
✅ Answer Key & Solutions
Q1
C
Difference of squares: x² − 3² = (x+3)(x−3)
Q2
C
V = 6³ = 216 cm³
Q3
C
A = 8000(1.1)² = 8000×1.21 = 9680; CI = 9680−8000 = ₹1680
Q4
B
(a+b)² = a² + 2ab + b²
Q5
B
CSA = 2πrh = 2 × 22/7 × 7 × 10 = 440 cm²
Q6
B
2x−5=0 → x=5/2; x+3=0 → x=−3
Q7
B
Sorted: 1,3,5,7,9,12,14; median (4th term) = 7
Q8
C
V = πr²h = 22/7 × 3.5² × 12 = 22/7 × 12.25 × 12 = 462 m³
Q9
A
P(1) = 2(1)³ − 3(1) + 1 = 2 − 3 + 1 = 0
Q10
B
Profit% = (Profit/Cost Price) × 100
Q11
C
Profit = 900; 900/4500 × 100 = 20%
Q12
C
(a−b)² = a²−2ab+b² → 9x²−12xy+4y²
Q13
D
TSA = 6a² = 6 × 25 = 150 cm²
Q14
A
4 appears 4 times; 7 appears 3 times. Mode = 4
Q15
A
6x²+9x+2x+3 = 3x(2x+3)+1(2x+3) = (2x+3)(3x+1)
Q16
C
SI = (6000×8×3)/100 = ₹1440
Q17
D
Range = Max − Min = 78 − 12 = 66
Q18
A
(x−2)(x−3) = 0 → x = 2 or x = 3
Q19
B
V = 4/3πr³ = 4/3 × 22/7 × 9261 = 38,808 cm³
Q20
A
Primes 1-20: 2,3,5,7,11,13,17,19 = 8 primes; P = 8/20 = 2/5
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Class 8 algebra so important for later classes?
Class 8 algebraic identities — (a+b)², (a-b)², (a+b)(a-b) — are used directly in Class 9 and 10 polynomial factorisation, coordinate geometry and quadratic equations. A student who cannot apply these identities confidently will struggle significantly in the board-exam classes. This paper includes questions that test these identities in context.
How should a Class 8 student revise mensuration formulas effectively?
Rather than memorising formulas in isolation, derive them once — understanding why the formula works makes it far harder to forget. Then apply them in varied contexts like this paper's questions. The answer key here shows the working, not just the answer, which models the right approach to formula application.
Is Class 8 a good time to start preparing for Class 10 board exams?
Yes — the strongest Class 10 scorers typically build their foundation in Class 8. The topics in this paper (algebra, mensuration, data handling) all have direct counterparts in the Class 10 board syllabus. Starting rigorous practice in Class 8 means less pressure and better conceptual depth when board exams arrive.