ISC Class 11 Mathematics Syllabus 2026-27
Introduction
This page provides the complete ISC Class 11 Mathematics Syllabus for the academic session 2026-27, as prescribed by the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE). ISC Class 11 Mathematics is a rigorous and expansive subject covering algebra, trigonometry, coordinate geometry, calculus, statistics, and probability. This guide includes the full unit-wise and chapter-wise syllabus, examination pattern, marking scheme, recommended books, and proven preparation strategies.
ISC Class 11 Mathematics forms the foundation for Class 12 board examinations and competitive entrance tests including JEE, NDA, and various university entrance examinations. The subject develops logical reasoning, problem-solving ability, and mathematical rigour. Students who master the Class 11 syllabus thoroughly will find Class 12 mathematics significantly more manageable.
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
Subject | Mathematics |
Board | CISCE (ISC) |
Class | 11 |
Session | 2026-27 |
Subject Code | Mathematics (Code: 02) |
Total Marks | 100 |
Theory Paper | 80 Marks |
Internal Assessment | 20 Marks |
Duration | 3 Hours (Theory) |
Medium | English |
Exam Pattern
Component | Marks | Duration | Remarks |
Theory Paper | 80 | 3 Hours | Written examination |
Internal Assessment | 20 | Year-round | Project work, assignments, class tests |
Total | 100 | — | — |
Detailed Syllabus
Unit 1: Sets and Functions
This unit establishes the foundational language of mathematics. Sets, relations, and functions form the basis for all subsequent topics in the syllabus.
Chapter | Topics Covered |
Sets | Sets and their representations; empty set; finite, infinite sets; equal sets; subsets; power set; universal set; Venn diagrams; union, intersection, complement; properties of set operations |
Relations and Functions | Ordered pairs; Cartesian product; relations; domain, co-domain, range; functions; types of functions (one-one, onto, into); composition; inverse functions |
Trigonometric Functions | Angles and their measurement (degrees, radians); trigonometric functions; trigonometric identities; graphs of trigonometric functions; trigonometric equations |
Unit 2: Algebra
Algebra at the Class 11 level introduces complex numbers, quadratic equations, sequences, and the binomial theorem, building the algebraic toolkit students need for advanced mathematics.
Chapter | Topics Covered |
Complex Numbers and Quadratic Equations | Complex numbers; algebraic properties; modulus; argument; Argand plane; quadratic equations with complex roots; cube roots of unity |
Linear Inequalities | Algebraic solutions; graphical representation; system of linear inequalities in two variables |
Permutations and Combinations | Fundamental principle of counting; factorial; permutations (with and without repetition); combinations; applications |
Binomial Theorem | Binomial theorem for positive integral index; general term; middle term; properties of binomial coefficients |
Sequences and Series | Arithmetic progression (AP); geometric progression (GP); arithmetic mean; geometric mean; sum of n terms; special series (sum of squares, cubes) |
Unit 3: Coordinate Geometry
This unit develops the connection between algebraic equations and geometric figures, covering straight lines and conic sections.
Chapter | Topics Covered |
Straight Lines | Slope of a line; collinearity; equations of lines (slope-intercept, point-slope, two-point, intercept, normal forms); angle between lines; distance from a point to a line; family of lines |
Conic Sections | Sections of a cone; circle; parabola; ellipse; hyperbola; standard equations; focus; directrix; eccentricity; latus rectum |
Introduction to 3D Geometry | Coordinate axes in 3D; coordinate planes; coordinates of a point; distance between two points; section formula in 3D |
Unit 4: Calculus
The introduction to calculus is one of the most important units in Class 11 Mathematics. Limits and derivatives form the gateway to all higher calculus topics.
Chapter | Topics Covered |
Limits and Derivatives | Intuitive idea of limit; limits of polynomials and rational functions; limits of trigonometric functions; derivative as rate of change; derivative of polynomial and trigonometric functions; rules: product rule, quotient rule, chain rule; derivatives of standard functions |
Unit 5: Statistics and Probability
This unit develops data handling and probabilistic reasoning skills that are applicable across science, commerce, and social sciences.
Chapter | Topics Covered |
Statistics | Measures of dispersion; range; mean deviation; variance; standard deviation for ungrouped and grouped data; analysis of frequency distributions |
Probability | Random experiments; sample space; events; axiomatic approach to probability; addition theorem; conditional probability; independent events; Bayes' theorem (introduction) |
Unit 6: Mathematical Reasoning
Chapter | Topics Covered |
Mathematical Reasoning | Statements; negation; compound statements (conjunction, disjunction); conditional and biconditional statements; contrapositive; converse; tautology; contradiction; validating statements |
Chapter Overview Table
Unit | Chapter / Topic | Approx. Marks |
1 | Sets and Functions (Sets, Relations, Trigonometry) | 20 |
2 | Algebra (Complex Numbers, Sequences, Binomial Theorem, P and C) | 25 |
3 | Coordinate Geometry (Lines, Conics, 3D Geometry) | 15 |
4 | Calculus (Limits and Derivatives) | 15 |
5 | Statistics and Probability | 12 |
6 | Mathematical Reasoning | 5 |
— | Internal Assessment | 20 |
Marking Scheme
Section | Type | Marks | Instructions |
Section A | Compulsory short and long answer | 40 | All questions compulsory |
Section B | Choice-based long answer | 20 | Answer any 2 from 3 |
Section C | Choice-based long answer | 20 | Answer any 2 from 3 |
Internal Assessment | Project, assignments, class test | 20 | Year-round; school assessed |
Total | — | 100 | — |
Recommended Books
Book Title | Author / Publisher | Purpose |
Mathematics for Class 11 | R.D. Sharma | Comprehensive exercises and theory |
ISC Mathematics (Class 11) | M.L. Aggarwal / Arya Publications | ISC-specific questions and solutions |
NCERT Mathematics (Class 11) | NCERT | Concept clarity and standard questions |
Problems in Mathematics | V.K. Tulsian | Additional problem-solving practice |
CISCE Sample Question Papers | Oswal / Evergreen Publishers | Past papers and exam practice |
Preparation Tips for ISC Class 11 Mathematics
ISC Mathematics demands consistent daily practice and a conceptual rather than a formula-based approach to problem-solving. These strategies are most effective:
• Study every chapter by first understanding the derivations and proofs before attempting exercises; rote application of formulas without understanding leads to errors in non-standard problems.
• Complete all examples in R.D. Sharma and NCERT before attempting miscellaneous exercises, as these build progressive competence.
• Maintain a formula register for each chapter with all key formulas, identities, and conditions; review this register weekly.
• Give extra time to trigonometric functions, coordinate geometry, and binomial theorem as these chapters collectively carry the highest weightage.
• Practise at least 10 problems of each type per chapter; do not move to the next topic until the current one is thoroughly understood.
• For limits and derivatives, focus on standard form recognition and the correct application of rules (product, quotient, chain) as these are the most common sources of errors.
• Solve three to four complete ISC Class 11 papers under timed conditions in the months of February and March to build examination readiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many units are in the ISC Class 11 Mathematics syllabus?
The ISC Class 11 Mathematics syllabus is organised into six units: Sets and Functions, Algebra, Coordinate Geometry, Calculus, Statistics and Probability, and Mathematical Reasoning. Of these, Algebra and Sets and Functions carry the highest combined weightage and are recommended as priority areas for study.
Is calculus included in the ISC Class 11 Mathematics syllabus?
Yes, calculus is introduced in ISC Class 11 through the Limits and Derivatives chapter. Students learn the intuitive concept of a limit, limits of polynomial and trigonometric functions, and the derivative as a rate of change, along with derivatives of standard functions. This forms the foundation for the more advanced differential and integral calculus studied in Class 12.
What is the internal assessment structure for ISC Mathematics?
The internal assessment for ISC Class 11 Mathematics carries 20 marks and is evaluated by the school throughout the academic year. It typically includes one or two investigatory projects on mathematical topics, assignments from each chapter, and class tests. Students should maintain a neat mathematics project file and complete all assigned work on time.
Which chapters should students prioritise in ISC Class 11 Mathematics?
Based on typical ISC examination trends, students should prioritise Trigonometric Functions, Algebra (Sequences and Series, Binomial Theorem, Permutations and Combinations, Complex Numbers), and Coordinate Geometry (Straight Lines and Conic Sections) as these chapters carry the highest combined weightage. Calculus and Statistics, while slightly lower in weightage, are critically important as they form the basis for Class 12 topics.
Can ISC Class 11 Mathematics students use a calculator in the examination?
No, calculators are not permitted in the ISC Class 11 Mathematics examination. All calculations must be done by hand. Students are advised to practise mental arithmetic and standard calculations regularly to avoid errors during the examination.
ISC Class 11 Syllabus |