Maharashtra HSC Computer Science Syllabus 2026: CS-1 & CS-2 Chapter List
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Entering your HSC year is a pivotal moment, especially for Science stream students in Maharashtra who have opted for Computer Science (Bifocal). This subject is famously known as a "score booster" because it carries a total of 200 marks, split into two papers: CS-1 (Software) and CS-2 (Hardware).
To help you navigate your academic journey, we have compiled the most authentic and verified HSC Computer Science Syllabus 2026. This guide will break down the chapter-wise weightage, the structure of both theory papers, and the practical marking scheme to ensure you have a clear roadmap for your 2026 board exams.
Understanding the Course Structure for 2026
The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has maintained a structured approach for the 2026 session. Unlike other core subjects that follow a 70:30 ratio, Computer Science is unique.
Total Marks: 200
Theory Papers: 100 Marks (50 for CS-1 + 50 for CS-2)
Practical Exams: 100 Marks (50 for CS-1 + 50 for CS-2)
This 50-50 split between theory and practicals makes it essential for students to focus equally on coding logic and hardware assembly.
Pro Tip: Looking for a deeper dive into how these marks are distributed? Check out the Latest HSC 12th Computer Science Chapter Weightage 2026 for a complete blueprint.
HSC Computer Science Syllabus 2026: Paper 1 (Software)
Paper 1, or CS-1, focuses on the logical and programming aspects of computing. If you enjoy problem-solving and web design, this section will be your playground.
CS-1 Chapter Breakdown
Chapter No. | Chapter Name | Key Topics | Weightage (with options) |
1 | Operating Systems | OS Services, Process Management, Memory Management, Windows/LINUX Basics | 22 Marks |
2 | Data Structures | Arrays, Stacks, Queues, Linked Lists, Trees, Sorting & Searching | 17 Marks |
3 | C++ Programming | OOP Concepts, Classes, Inheritance, Pointers, File Handling | 41 Marks |
4 | HTML | Basic Tags, Lists, Links, Images, Table Structures | 14 Marks |
The Powerhouse Chapter: As evident from the table, C++ Programming is the cornerstone of Paper 1. Mastering this chapter alone can help you clear the theory paper with ease, as it accounts for nearly 40% of the total questions.
HSC Computer Science Syllabus 2026: Paper 2 (Hardware)
Paper 2, or CS-2, shifts the focus to the physical components and internal logic of computers. It involves understanding microprocessors, networking, and the historical evolution of Intel’s chipsets.
CS-2 Chapter Breakdown
Chapter No. | Chapter Name | Key Topics | Weightage (with options) |
1 | Introduction to Microprocessors & 8085 | Architecture of 8085, Pin Diagram, Flags, ALU | 21 Marks |
2 | Instruction Set & Programming of 8085 | Assembly Language Programming (ALP), Data Transfer, Arithmetic, Logical | 43 Marks |
3 | Intel X-86 Family | Introduction to 8086, Pentium, and advanced processors | 05 Marks |
4 | Introduction to Microcontrollers | 8051 Architecture, Differences between $\mu$P and $\mu$C | 07 Marks |
5 | Networking Technology | LAN, MAN, WAN, OSI Model, Network Topologies | 18 Marks |
The Hardware King: The 8085 Instruction Set and Programming is the most critical unit in CS-2. You will be required to write Assembly Language Programs (ALPs), which are high-yield questions in the long-answer section.
Practical Exam Blueprint for 2026
The 100 practical marks are often where students secure their lead. For the 2026 exams, the evaluation remains rigorous but fair.
Certified Journal: 20 Marks (10 per paper)
Viva-Voce: 20 Marks (10 per paper)
Actual Experiments/Coding: 60 Marks (30 per paper)
In CS-1, you will typically be asked to execute a C++ program and design an HTML page. In CS-2, you'll perform experiments on the 8085 trainer kit or identify networking components.
How to Study for the 2026 Boards
To excel in the HSC Computer Science Syllabus 2026, follow these verified strategies:
Prioritize High-Weightage Chapters: Focus heavily on C++ (CS-1) and the 8085 Instruction Set (CS-2).
Master the Logic: Don't just memorize programs. Understand "why" a pointer is used or "how" the stack pointer moves in a microprocessor.
Regular Revision: Since CS-2 involves many technical specifications and pin diagrams, regular sketching of diagrams is necessary.
Solve PYQs: Even though the syllabus is updated for 2026, the core concepts of 8085 and C++ remain consistent with previous years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most important chapter in the HSC Computer Science Syllabus 2026?
In CS-1, the most important chapter is C++ Programming (41 marks), while in CS-2, the Instruction Set and Programming of 8085 (43 marks) carries the highest weightage.
Is the 2026 syllabus different from previous years?
The core subjects remain the same, but the 2026 syllabus places a higher emphasis on competency-based questions (roughly 30% of the paper) which test your logical application rather than just rote memorization.
Can I choose only one paper (CS-1 or CS-2)?
No. Computer Science is a composite subject. You must appear for both Paper 1 (Software) and Paper 2 (Hardware) to complete the 200-mark assessment.
How are the marks divided between theory and practicals?
For the 2026 board exam, the 200 total marks are divided into 100 marks for theory (50 marks for each paper) and 100 marks for practicals (50 marks for each paper).
Final Thoughts
The HSC Computer Science Syllabus 2026 is designed to provide a robust foundation in both software engineering and hardware architecture. By following this roadmap and focusing on high-weightage topics like C++ and 8085 microprocessors, you can easily secure a score above 180/200, significantly boosting your overall HSC percentage.
Stay tuned to official updates from the Maharashtra State Board and keep practicing your code!
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