CDS Examination is the most awaited examination for defence services aspirants. Serving in Indian Armed Forces is a dream of many students. Over the years, every student has devised their study plan and strategies to follow, but we are listing methodology which came from Top Rankers and Ex-Defence officers of the Selection Boards. 

1.   Understand the CDS Selection Process and Exam Pattern.      While preparing for the CDS Exam the first thing you should do is to get acquainted with the selection process, syllabus and exam pattern.

CDS Selection Process.    National level examination conducted by the UPSC twice a year. To check details of examination, kindly go through UPSC official website & download

the CDS Exam Notification directly.

o    The selection process consists of two stages. First, the Written Test which is followed by the SSB Interview.

o    CDS exam is conducted to recruit eligible candidates into the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy and Indian Air Force Academy.

CDS Exam Pattern.    In order to achieve success in your first attempt, it's important to understand the selection process and the exam pattern.

o    Marks.    The total marks of the examination are 300 marks for INA, IMA and AFA and for OTA, the total marks allotted are 200.

o    Time.   The total time to complete the examination is 6 hours with 2 hours required to complete each section for INA, IMA, AFA and for OTA, the total time will be 4 hours.

o    Difficulty Level.   For math, the difficulty of questions in the written exam is set at the class 10 level whereas, for other subjects, the difficulty is a little higher and set at the graduation level.

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o    The SSB Interview will comprises of various Intelligence and Personality Test followed by Individual medical test of recommended candidates.

2.    Create a Study Schedule.    A well-structured study schedule is the backbone of effective preparation.

Selection of Study Material.    Many of you must want to begin your preparation but are perplexed because there are so many CDS exam books on the market. Don’t collect endless study material. Your success will be one step closer if you make the right selections. Research it on Google, consult with your mentors or experts and choose good but finite books. Burden of books could distract you and make you under pressure.

Recommended Books.

English Language.    Section carries a total score of 100 points, and the candidates have 2 hours to complete it.

General Knowledge.    Section carries a total of 100 marks, and the candidates have a 2-hour time limit for it as well.

Elementary Mathematics.   The IMA, INA and AFA exams will include questions from this section. This section will not be used for candidates taking the Short Service Commission exam at the Officers' Training Academy. Section carries a total of 100 marks, and candidates have two hours to complete it.

Devise Study Plan - Week.  Allocate specific time slots for each subject and topic, ensuring you cover all the essentials. Stick to your schedule religiously to maintain consistency and discipline in your preparation.

o      Develop Strong Conceptual Understanding.   Rather than relying solely on rote learning, invest time and focus on developing a strong conceptual understanding of the subjects. CDS exams demand a thorough understanding of fundamental concepts in Mathematics, English and General Knowledge.

o        Revision is Key.   Revise the whole syllabus at least twice and in the last few days focus can be on revision more than learning new things. Divide your study time giving more attention to important topics while leaving ample time for revision.

3.   Create your own Notes.    Make study notes in your own language. No matter how you write them, just make it cover everything & based on your understanding. Don’t go extra deep in any topic. Cover its basics and important parts.

• Notebooks.    To begin with for each subject.
• A4 Paper - Precise & short notes for last day revision.

4.   Solve Previous Year Papers.    Solve as much as possible and make topics summary which examiner cover maximum time.

Familiarity with Pattern.    Regularly solve previous years ‘question papers to get familiar with the exam pattern and improve your time management skills.

Analysis of Paper.    It’s obvious to solve them, but it will be great if you analyse them with respect to pattern.

Work on Time Management.   Time management is crucial during the exam. Practice solving

questions within the stipulated time limit to improve your speed and accuracy. Divide your

time effectively among different sections based on your strengths and weaknesses.

5.   Mock Test.    Test yourself weekly for topics covered and register your progress.

Practice Makes Perfect.     Keep practicing and take as many mock tests and solve previous year papers as possible to increase your chances of success. Taking multiple mock tests is essential for evaluating your progress and identifying areas for improvement.

Analyze your Results.     Analyze your results on each test to determine your strengths and weaknesses. Make sure to spend less time than the maximum time allotted, and concentrate on your question solving speed.

Relieve of Stress & Anxiety – Exams.    Attempting a large No of mock tests will give you confidence and sense of the level of achievement. Furthermore, it and will also help you to reduce anxiety during the actual exams.

5.   Improve English Language Skills.    Focus on improving your English language skills, including grammar, vocabulary, comprehension and writing ability. The same will enhance your performance during SSB Interview.

Develop English Proficiency.   Practice reading comprehension passages, vocabulary exercises and grammar rules to strengthen your English proficiency.

Spoken English.    Start conversations in English with your friend, or any family member even they are not following the same.

6.  Stay Updated with Current Affairs.     The NDA exam includes a section on general knowledge, which covers current affairs, history, geography and other related topics. Stay updated with the latest news and events through newspapers, magazines and online sources. This will give you an edge in the general knowledge section.

7.   Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle.    While rigorous preparation is essential, it’s equally important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and engage in regular physical exercise.

Physical Fitness.   Engage in regular physical activities such as Jogging, swimming and other cardio workouts. Regularly participate in sports and games of your choice to improve your stamina, teamwork and resilience. It will help you when preparing for SSB after few months.

The Right Balance.    A healthy body and mind will enhance your concentration and overall performance during the exam. Avoid over-exercise in gyms as you’re not going for Wrestling Competition, it’s just a physical test. The aim is make your body fit and agile and not muscular.

8.   Discipline.     Discipline is the most important factor between success and failure. During

highlights the complementary roles of motivation and discipline in achieving goals. Motivation provides the initial spark and desire, while discipline ensures consistent effort and progress, especially when motivation wanes. 

9.   Personality Development.     Unlike the normal Job Interview, the SSB Interview is test of your personality and not the acquired skill sets.

Communication Skills.   Take part in formal and informal talks, debates, group discussions and public speaking events to enhance your communication skills and confidence.

Social Quotient.   Develop leadership qualities and a positive attitude through participation in social and community activities.

Mentorship - Seeking Guidance and Resources.    The right guidance and resources can significantly enhance your preparation.

10. Stay Positive and Confident.   Maintain a positive attitude and believe in your abilities. Stay motivated, persevere through difficult times and maintain confidence in your preparation efforts. Visualize success and stay determined to achieve your goals.

Fear of Competition.    It’s good to analyse your competition but don’t let it demotivate you.

Copy others Tactics.    You know yourself best, no-one can make a better study plan and schedule for you, make it as your very own and follow it judiciously. Don’t try to present yourself as borrowed personality, so remain true to yourself.

Conclusion.     In conclusion, preparing for the NDA entrance exam requires a systematic and disciplined approach. With the right approach, candidates can crack the NDA exam and fulfil their dreams of serving the nation. Remember, the path to becoming an officer in the Indian Armed Forces is demanding, but with determination and the right approach, you can embark on a rewarding career in the defence forces.   Good Luck & God Bless !

Latest CDS Updates

·          UPSC Notification Release:  May 28, 2025  

·          Application Dates: May 28, 2025 to June 17, 2025

·          Exam Date: September 14, 2025

·          Total Vacancies: 453

·          Application Mode: Online

·          Official Website: upsconline.nic.in