HSC Biology Question Bank 2026: Important Questions for Inheritance, Molecular Basis, and Evolution
- Feb 19
- 3 min read
HSC Biology Question Bank 2026 is the most vital resource for students aiming to excel in the Maharashtra State Board examinations. As we move into the 2026 academic cycle, the competition for medical seats through NEET and MHT-CET has intensified, making a thorough grasp of the Class 12 Biology syllabus non-negotiable.
The chapters Inheritance and Variation, Molecular Basis of Inheritance, and Origin and Evolution of Life together form the backbone of modern genetics and evolutionary biology, carrying significant weightage in the board exams.
To support your preparation, this guide provides a structured analysis of the most frequent questions, official question bank insights, and a roadmap to mastering these complex topics.
1. Inheritance and Variation: Cracking the Genetic Code
This chapter explores the principles of heredity and how traits are passed from one generation to the next. In recent years, the Maharashtra Board has shifted toward application-based questions in this section.
Important Questions for 2026
Distinguish Between: Monohybrid Cross vs. Dihybrid Cross; Back Cross vs. Test Cross.
Long Answer Questions: State and explain Mendel’s Law of Independent Assortment with a suitable example.
Short Notes: Incomplete Dominance, Co-dominance, and Pleiotropy.
Medical Relevance: Explain Sex-linked inheritance with reference to Color Blindness and Haemophilia.
Diagrammatic Questions: Sketch and label the structure of a Chromosome.
Repeated Board Patterns
Students should focus heavily on the Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance. Official papers from the last five years show that questions on Sex Determination (specifically in Humans, Birds, and Honeybees) appear almost every alternate year.
2. Molecular Basis of Inheritance: The Blueprint of Life
As the core of molecular biology, this chapter is high-scoring but requires a deep understanding of biochemical processes.
High-Yield Questions
Process Description: Explain the semi-conservative replication of DNA with the help of a neat, labeled diagram.
Experimental Proof: Describe the Hershey-Chase experiment to prove DNA is the genetic material.
Protein Synthesis: Explain the process of Transcription and Translation in eukaryotes.
The Lac Operon: Describe the regulation of gene expression using the Lac Operon model.
Genomics & Forensic Science: Write a short note on DNA Fingerprinting and its applications.
Key Terms to Remember
In your HSC Biology Question Bank 2026 preparation, ensure you can define:
Okazaki Fragments
Wobble Hypothesis
Central Dogma
Codogen vs. Codon
3. Origin and Evolution of Life: Understanding Our Roots
Evolutionary biology provides the context for all life sciences. This section often includes both theoretical and evidence-based questions.
Essential Questions
Theories of Evolution: Explain Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection and its limitations.
Modern Synthetic Theory: Describe the factors that contribute to the modern concept of evolution (Gene flow, Genetic drift, Mutation).
Chemical Evolution: Describe Urey and Miller’s experiment with a labeled diagram.
Human Evolution: Compare the cranial capacities and characteristics of Homo habilis, Homo erectus, and Neanderthal man.
Evidence of Evolution: Define Homologous and Analogous organs with examples.
4. Official Resources and Links
To stay updated with the latest curriculum changes for 2026, always refer to the official portals. These links provide the most authentic "Prashnapedhi" (Question Bank) released by the state.
MSBSHSE Official Website (Question Papers): mahahsscboard.in
SCERT Maharashtra (Official Question Bank): maa.ac.in
Conclusion
Mastering the HSC Biology Question Bank 2026 is about more than just memorization; it is about understanding the logic of life at a molecular and evolutionary level. By focusing on the repeated patterns in previous years' papers and practicing your diagrams regularly, you can secure top marks in your board exams and build a strong foundation for your future medical career.
FAQ Section: HSC Biology Question Bank 2026
Q1: Where can I download the official HSC Biology Question Bank 2026?
A: You can download the official HSC Biology Question Bank 2026 from the SCERT Maharashtra website (maa.ac.in) under the "Prashnapedhi" section. It is typically released a few months before the board exams to help students practice.
Q2: Which chapters have the highest weightage in Class 12 Biology?
A: Genetics and Evolution (which includes Inheritance and Molecular Basis) usually carry 12-15 marks. Biotechnology and Physiology chapters are also high-weightage areas.
Q3: Are diagrams mandatory for 3 and 4-mark questions?
A: Yes, in Biology, diagrams are often allotted 1 to 1.5 marks within a long-answer question. Even if not explicitly asked, a neat, labeled sketch significantly improves your score.
Q4: How can I prepare for the medical entrance exams alongside Board exams?
A: Since the HSC syllabus for 2026 is closely aligned with the NCERT and NEET patterns, focus on clear conceptual understanding. Solve the board question bank first, then move to MCQ-based practice for competitive exams.
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