CDS 2025 Preparation Tips: Check Complete Strategy for Written & SSB Interview

Registration: 11 Dec '24 - 31 Dec '24

Updated on Dec 16, 2024 11:30 IST

CDS Preparation Tips 2025: For admission to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers' Training Academy (OTA), the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the CDS exam twice a year. Candidates should become familiar with the exam format before moving on to the detailed syllabus when preparing for the CDS exam 2025. The CDS 1 2025 exam will be conducted on April 13, 2025. Candidates can make a successful preparation schedule for themselves if they are aware of the most recent exam pattern and curriculum. Candidates should examine the question format and weightage of topic from previous years' question papers. Additionally, candidates must often take practice exams to assess their strengths and weaknesses. Candidates need to purchase appropriate literature, make topic-specific notes, etc. We have provided CDS preparation tips in this article.

Q: How can I prepare for the CDS exam in three months?

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the CDS exam evey six months. The candidates can prepare for the CDS exam in three month. However, the candidates need to focus and study rigorously in order to crack the CDS exam in three months. While preparing for the CDS exam in three months, the candidates need to take following things in consideration:

Basics of the exam: If a candidate has completed his/her graduation and twelfth standard with grip on the subjects then it is easy to cover the complete syllabus in time. However, if the candidate have to start from scratch then it will be very difficult to cover the syllabus of the CDS exam
Time Table: The candidate must stic a time table that can complete the syllabus in time as well as leave ample time for revisions and mock tests
Question Pattern: The candidtae must go through the question pattern and solve the previous years' question paper and search for repition in topics and question asked in the exam.
Mock Test: Take maximum number of mock tests in exam condiction to get habit of sitting and taking the exam. It will help the candidate get relief from freefo in the CDS exam.

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Q: What is the syllabus for CDS exam?

Below is the syllabus for CDS exam:

1. English Section:

Reading Comprehension
Spotting the Error
Fill in the blanks
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms and Phrases
Sentence Arrangement
Ordering of words in Sentence
Sentence Improvement/Correction

2. Mathematics Section:

Arithmetic (Number System, Time and Work, Profit and Loss)
Elementary Number Theory
Algebra (Basic operations, Remainder Theorem, Simultaneous Equations)
Trigonometry (Simple trigonometric identities, Heights and Distances)
Geometry (Lines, Angles, Circles, Polygons)
Mensuration (Areas, Volumes)
Statistics (Data Collection, Graphical Representation)

3. General Knowledge Section:

Indian History
Political Science
Economics
Geography
Environment
General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
Current Affairs
Defence Related Questions

4. OTA (Officers' Training Academy) Syllabus:

General Knowledge
English

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Q: Who is eligible to take the CDS exam?

To be eligible for the CDS exam, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Age Limit: Candidates must be at least 19 years old when applying for the CDS exam. The age limit for female candidates is generally the same as for male candidates, ranging from 19 to 25 years
Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree from a UGC-recognized university. Final-year students who are expected to complete their degree before the commencement of the respective academy's training can also apply
Nationality: Candidates must be a citizen of India, a subject of Nepal, a subject of Bhutan, or a Tibetan refugee permanently settled in India
Physical Standards: Candidates must meet the specific physical fitness requirements, including height, weight, visual acuity, and overall physical health. The physical requirements for each of the three wings (OTA, INA, AFA) are detailed in the official CDS notification
Marital Status: There are no specific restrictions based on marital status for most academies under CDS. Both unmarried and married candidates may be eligible, subject to meeting the other eligibility criteria
Attempts: There is no restriction on the number of CDS exam attempts for candidates who have completed their graduation

It is essential to check the official CDS notification for any specific variations in eligibility criteria and to ensure that candidates meet all the requirements mentioned by the official body.

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Table of Contents

CDS Preparation Tips 2025
How to Start CDS 2025 Preparation?
Is One Year enough for CDS preparation?
CDS Preparation Tips 2025: English, Maths & General Knowledge
CDS Preparation Tips for Time Management
CDS Preparation Tips 2025: Solving Previous Year's Question Papers
Can I Crack CDS Exam in First Attempt?
Can I crack CDS in 3 months?
How to prepare for SSB Interview?
CDS Last Minute Preparation Tips
CDS 2025 Preparation FAQs

CDS Preparation Tips 2025

CDS Preparation 2025: requires a lot of hard work and devotion. As the CDS syllabus for the exam is quite vast, candidates must do the CDS preparation. The selection of the candidates depends on their performance in the written exam and interview, and candidates with good CDS preparation make it to the final selection rounds. Effective preparation for the exam involves strategies that help them use their time optimally and tips that help them study well.

Q: Can I prepare for the CDS exam on my own or do I need coaching classes?

It is possible to prepare for the CDS exam on your own without coaching classes. However, coaching classes can be helpful for candidates who need additional support and guidance, especially if they are new to the exam or have difficulty understanding certain topics. Coaching classes can provide candidates with access to specialised training, experienced faculty, and mock tests to help them prepare for the exam. This can be particularly helpful for candidates who are not familiar with the exam pattern or who need extra help with specific subjects. That being said, many candidates have successfully prepared for the CDS exam on their own by using textbooks, online resources, and previous year question papers. It ultimately depends on the candidate's level of preparation, familiarity with the syllabus, and personal preferences.

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Q: What are some effective ways to revise for the CDS exam?

Here are some effective ways to revise for the CDS exam:

Make notes: Making notes is an effective way to revise for the CDS exam. While preparing for the exam, make notes of important concepts, formulas, and key points. These notes will help you revise quickly and efficiently.
Revise regularly: Regular revision is essential for retaining the information and concepts. Schedule regular revision sessions to go through your notes, study material, and sample papers.
Solve previous year question papers: Solving previous year question papers is an effective way to revise for the CDS exam. It will help you understand the exam pattern, types of questions asked, and improve your time management skills.
Use flashcards: Flashcards are an effective way to revise important concepts and formulas. Write down the important concepts and formulas on flashcards and revise them regularly.
Practice mock tests: Mock tests are an effective way to revise for the CDS exam. They will help you evaluate your performance, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and improve your time management skills.
Discuss with peers and mentors: Discussing the concepts and solving problems with peers and mentors is an effective way to revise for the CDS exam. It will help you clarify your doubts and get feedback on your performance.

Remember, revision is an ongoing process, and you should allocate enough time for it in your overall preparation strategy. Also, make sure to focus on understanding the concepts and not just memorizing them.

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Q: What is QPReP in CDS exam?

QPReP stands for "Question Paper Representation and Practice Platform". It is an online platform developed by the UPSC for candidates appearing in various competitive exams, including the CDS exam. The QPReP platform provides candidates with the opportunity to practice and familiarize themselves with the exam format and pattern. It contains a pool of mock test papers that are designed to simulate the actual exam and cover all the topics and subjects included in the syllabus. The platform also provides instant feedback and performance analysis to help candidates identify their strengths and weaknesses and improve their preparation. The QPReP platform is available to all registered candidates for the CDS exam and can be accessed through the UPSC's official website. Candidates can log in to their account and choose the mock test papers they wish to attempt. The platform also allows candidates to customize the test papers according to their preferences, such as the number of questions, difficulty level, and time limit. Overall, QPReP is a useful tool for candidates appearing in the CDS exam to enhance their preparation and increase their chances of success.

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How to Start CDS 2025 Preparation?

Candidates can check below a few tips and tricks to crack the CDS exam:

Know the syllabus and exam pattern

Those aspiring to crack the CDS exam need to go through the exam syllabus and exam pattern. This will give them an idea about the topics to be covered for the exam. While studying according to the CDS syllabus, you should jot down all the topics you are confident about and those where you lack knowledge. Try to focus on weaker areas and cope with them as soon as possible to avoid confusion.

Also Read: CDS exam pattern

Get the Top Score in DI and Logical Reasoning section of Competitive Entrance Exams with Expert Prep Tips

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Previous Year Papers and Mocks

Solving the previous years' CDS question papers plays an important role in exam preparation. This helps you in gaining familiarity with the type of questions asked in the exam, the distribution of questions, the difficulty level, and the marking scheme. Besides, it helps to assess the level of preparation for the exam. In doing so, you can focus on the weaker areas.

Keep the fundamentals clear

It is important to clear your basic concepts rather than cramming the formulas. Since simple questions are asked in a tricky format, be thorough with your concepts in order to understand and solve the questions.

Focus on important topics

During preparations, emphasise important topics, carry maximum marks, and be easier to score in.

Attempt easier questions first

You should go through all the questions and try solving those questions first, which they find easy and require less time to score qualifying marks. Beware of attempting questions you are not confident of as there is negative marking too.

Make a proper timetable

You need to follow a regular study routine so that the entire syllabus can be completed. Make a timetable and devote six to eight hours, especially for preparations. Take time to manage your weekly revisions as well.

Q: What is the syllabus for CDS Geography?

Candidates in Geography should cover Agriculture, Air Drainage, Earth: Core and Surface, Environment, Forest and Wildlife Resources, Globe: Latitudes and Longitudes, Human Resources, Human Settlement, India: Climate, Vegetation and Wildlife, India: Physical Features (Size and Location), Industries, International Trade, Land, Soil, Water, Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Resources, Landforms of the Earth, Life on the Earth (Deserts, Ocean, Jungles, Mountain, Antarctic), Lifelines of National Economy, Maps, Minerals, and Energy Resources, Natural Hazards and Disasters, Natural Vegetation and Wildlife, Physiography, Population (Distribution, Density & Growth), Primary, secondary, Tertiary & Quaternary Activities, Resource and Development, Solar System, Topographic and Weather, Transport & Communication, Tropical, and the Subtropical Region, Water Resources.

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Q: What are the physical criteria for the CDS exam?

The physical standards are extremely important for the CDS exam. You may be disqualified even if you are recommended by the SSB if you do not meet the physical fitness requirements. The following are the physical criteria for the CDS exam: 1. The minimum required height is around 157.5 cm for IMA through CDS. 2. It is 157 cm for the Navy and 162.5 cm for the Air Force. 3. For female candidates, the minimum required height is 152 cm. 4. The body mass index (BMI) must be below 25 for CDS. 5. Also, there is a required waist-to-hip ratio that should be below 0.9 for males and 0.8 for females. 6. The waist circumference must be less than 80 cm for females and 90 cm for males. 7. There is a prescribed weight criteria as per height, which you can SEE in the official notification of the UPSC CDS.

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Q: What is the Syllabus for CDS Indian Polity?

Candidates should prepare Indian Constitution, President and Vice President, Governor, Prime Minister and Cabinet, Emergency provisions, Chief Minister, Chairman and State Council Ministers, Legislative Assembly, SC & HC, Tribunals, Auditor General, Finance Commission and Election Commission, Centre-State and Inter-State Relations, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Amendments, Preamble, Panchayati Raj and Municipalities.

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Is One Year enough for CDS preparation?

Preparation time for the CDS exam completely depends upon the individual who is going to take the exam. If more than 70 per cent of the CDS syllabus can be solved by the candidate then thay can move to the mock tests and crack the CDS written exam easily in one year. However, it is completely dependent on the candidates' ability to grasp and gain knowledge and complete the syllabus in time.

Q: What is the ideal time to start preparing for CDS exam?

It is ideal that candidates must begin their preparation six months prior to the release of CDS notification. The candidates can check the preparation tips to qualify for the CDS exam: a) The candidates must know the complete syllabus and the pattern of the CDS exam b) Go through the NCERT books of classes 6 to 12 c) Solve previous years' questions and mock tests d) Make time table to cover complete syllabus of CDS exam e) Take frequent breaks to calm and relax.

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Q: What are the best books to prepare for CDS exam?

The candidates can prepare for the CDS exam by going through the enlisted books for CDS Best Books for CDS English Language Candidates can refer to the following books for the English Language section Objective General English by RS Aggarwal Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis High School English Grammar and Composition Books for General Knowledge and Current Affairs Candidates need to read the newspapers regularly in order to keep themselves updated with recent events. The books that candidates can refer to for this section are given below: Manorama Yearbook Lucents General Knowledge Competition in Focus (Half-Yearly and Yearly) CDS books for Elementary Mathematics Best Books for Elementary Mathematics The candidates can refer to the enlisted books for preparing for the CDS elementary mathematics: Mathematics for CDS by RS Aggarwal Quantitative Aptitude for Examinations paperback by RS Aggarwal.

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Q: What should I prepare for maths and English in CDS?

The candidates can prepare for the CDS exam by following through pattern by being familiar with the past year examination papers, students can also refer to few books to prepare. Let yourself go through the enlisted books for CDS

Best Books for CDS English Language- Objective General English by RS Aggarwal Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis High and School English Grammar and Composition Books for General Knowledge and for Current Affairs Candidates need to read the newspapers regularly in order to keep themselves updated with recent events.

The books that candidates can refer to for this section are given below:

Manorama Yearbook Lucents General Knowledge Competition in Focus (Half-Yearly and Yearly) CDS books for Elementary Mathematics Best Books for Elementary Mathematics
The candidates can refer to the enlisted books for preparing for the CDS elementary mathematics:

Mathematics for CDS by RS Aggarwal Quantitative Aptitude for Examinations paperback by RS Aggarwal.

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CDS Preparation Tips 2025: English, Maths & General Knowledge

Candidates can check below the section-wise CDS preparation tips:

CDS Preparation Tips for English

To enhance the score in English paper, one must go through the rules of grammar
Prepare idioms and phrases thoroughly

Also Read: How to prepare for CDS English section

Prepare for Competitive Exams with Expert Tips on English Section

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CDS Preparation Tips for General Knowledge

Identify the high weightage topics after analysing the previous years' question papers
Revise important facts from those topics
Revise the current affairs of the last four to five months properly

Also Read: How to prepare for General Knowledge

Download CURRENT AFFAIRS Guide - Click Here

CDS Preparation Tips for Elementary Mathematics

Revise important formulas and their application methods for Algebra, Arithmetic, Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration, and Statistics
Do not start with new topics rather revise those you have studied
Take as many mocks you can take while preparing for the Mathematics section
Focus on time management and accuracy while solving the question in mock test

Also Read: How to prepare for CDS Elementary Mathematics

Get the Top Score in Numerical Ability section of Competitive Entrance Exams with Expert Prep Tips

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CDS Preparation Tips for Time Management

Candidates can check below a few tips for time management:

Candidates should effectively manage time for the exam and complete the paper within the allotted time only
Candidates must follow a regular study routine so that the entire syllabus is completed
Devote six to eight hours daily for preparation
Take time for weekly revision

Related Links: Next steps after taking CDS exam

CDS Preparation Tips 2025: Solving Previous Year's Question Papers

Candidates can check below few tips related to solving the previous year's question papers:

Try to solve previous years' question papers to know the type of questions asked in the exam
Solving question papers also helps candidates to know the exam pattern, types of questions, weightage given to topics, etc.
Solving previous years also helps in managing time
Candidates can also analyse their performance for the exam and work on the weak areas

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Q: How can I assess the level of preparation for the CDS exam?

Assessing your level of preparation for the CDS exam is important to identify your strengths and weaknesses and make necessary improvements. Here are some ways to assess your level of preparation: 1. Take mock tests: Taking mock tests is a great way to assess your level of preparation for the CDS exam. You can find mock tests online or through coaching institutes. These mock tests will give you an idea of the exam pattern, difficulty level, and the areas where you need to improve. 2. Analyze previous year question papers: Analyzing previous year question papers is another way to assess your level of preparation. It will help you understand the exam pattern, the types of questions asked, and the weightage given to each section. 3. Evaluate your performance: After taking mock tests or analyzing previous year question papers, evaluate your performance. Identify the areas where you have performed well and the areas where you need to improve. 4. Seek feedback: Seek feedback from your teachers, mentors, or peers. They can provide you with valuable insights and suggestions for improvement. 5. Maintain a study plan and a study journal: Maintain a study plan and a study journal to keep track of your progress. This will help you identify the areas where you need to focus more and the areas where you need to revise.

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Q: How can I prepare for CDS Maths and Current Affairs for CDS exam?

You can use the following approach to Current Affairs for the CDS WATCH TV- Spend a couple of hours watching TV every day. It offers information on every subject in an engaging manner that is simple to remember. Watch reputable news stations like CNN and BBC for the daily bulletin. It serves as the greatest and the simplest method to understand current events. NEWSPAPER READING The oldest and most popular method for increasing understanding of current issues is to read newspapers. Local, regional, national, and international news can all be found there. Get a subscription to a reputable newspaper, such as "The Hindu, " and make reading the newspaper a morning ritual. USE THE INTERNET SMARTLY: Use your time online more wisely by avoiding time-wasting websites like Facebook and Instagram. In terms of websites, there are several, however practically all of them require payment. As a result, I would prefer to advise you to use reputable YouTube channels, such as Study IQ instruction. Write because you tend to forget what you've read easily. Writing aids in memory retention and strengthens information in the brain. Therefore, put what you learn in writing and take brief notes that you can refer to later. For CDS Maths Prioritize the preparation of the crucial topics first while allocating time for the challenging ones. Determine how much time to spend on each sort of question by taking practice exams. Additionally, in order to have a sense of the kinds of questions that will be in the exam, candidates must complete prior year's question papers. Candidates must acquire time management shortcuts, suggestions, and techniques. Recall basic computations like squares and cubes. Make a list of formulas and shortened forms to keep on hand for last-minute revision. Due to the exam's negative marking policy, they should only mark an answer if they are certain about it. During the exam, avoid making educated guesses. Candidates should consult quality mathematics textbooks when preparing for the CDS.

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Q: Is there a time limit for each subject in CDS exam?

Yes, there is a time limit for each subject in the CDS exam. The exam is conducted in three stages, namely a written exam, an interview, and a medical exam. The written exam comprises three papers: English General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics, and each paper has a specific time limit as mentioned below: a) English 2 hours b) General Knowledge: 2 hours c) Maths 2 hours The total time duration of the CDS exam is 6 hours. It is essential to manage time effectively during the exam to attempt all questions within the given time frame. Candidates should also keep in mind that there is a negative marking for incorrect answers and they should answer the questions carefully.

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Can I Crack CDS Exam in First Attempt?

Candidates must begin their preparation one year before the exam. They should focus on the exam pattern and syllabus. Besides, solve previous years' question papers to gain understanding about the exam.

Can I crack CDS in 3 months?

Candidates should start their preparation two to three months before the exam. The syllabus is vast and they need to cover the same first. After that, they should move towards attempting mock tests.

How to prepare for SSB Interview?

On the basis of the marks secured in the written exam, candidates are selected for SSB Interview. The test is conducted in two stages. At the SSB Interview centres, candidates are tested on the basis of their intelligence and personality. The Stage I of SSB Interview comprises Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) tests and Picture Perception Description Test (PP&DT). Stage II comprises Interview, Group Testing Officer Tasks, Psychology Tests, and the Conference. These tests are conducted over four days.

Tips for Physical and Medical Exam

The height and weight of candidates should be on a standard scale
Candidates must do regular training and exercise to stay fit
Before appearing before the medical board, candidates get their full body checkup done to ensure that they do not have any type of illness or disease

Tips for Personal Interview

During the personal interview, candidates must stay confident and do not get nervous
Candidates must be able to express their thoughts before the interview panel
Candidates must hone their communication skill
Candidates must speak and act like an Officer

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CDS Last Minute Preparation Tips

With just a few weeks left for the exam, candidates must revise all that they have studied during their preparation. Provided below are a few CDS last minute preparation tips.

Candidates must revise properly all that they have studied for the exam
Time management is crucial for the exam. Candidates must learn to manage time in an effective manner
Candidates should keep calm before the exam and do not learn any new topic
As there is a negative marking for incorrect answers. So, candidates should avoid doing guesswork in the exam
Candidates should take mock tests before the exam

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CDS 2025 Preparation FAQs

Refer CDS 2025 Preparation FAQs Here

Q: Is there any height-related criteria in the CDS?

Yes, the CDS has a height-related requirement. The minimum height for all defense academies through the CDS exam is as follows: 1. Male applicants must be at least 157.5 cm tall to qualify for IMA. 2. The minimum height requirement for admission to the Air Force Academy (AFA) is 162.5 cm. 3. The required height for INA is 157 cm or more, and only male candidates can apply. 4. To apply for OTA, male candidates must be at least 157.5 cm tall, while female candidates must be at least 152 cm tall. 5. Candidates from the Gorkha, Garhwal, Kumaon, and North Eastern regions are given a 5 cm relaxation. 6. Those applying from Lakshadweep are given a 2 cm relaxation.

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Q: What is the exam pattern for OTA CDS exam?

The OTA (Officer's Training Academy) CDS exam pattern is similar to the CDS exam pattern for the other academies, with a few differences. The OTA CDS exam is conducted in two stages: a written exam which is followed by an interview. The written exam consists of two papers: a) English This paper is of two hours duration and consists of objective-type questions designed to test the candidate's understanding of English grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and usage. B) General Knowledge: This paper is also of 2 hours duration and consists of objective type questions on various topics such as Current Affairs history, geography, economics, and general Science. It is important to note that there is no Elementary Mathematics paper for the OTA CDS exam Also, the OTA CDS exam is conducted only for the candidates who have applied for Short Service Commission (Non-Technical) course. The interview for the OTA CDS exam is similar to that of the other CDS academies and includes a Psychological Aptitude Test and a Personal Interview.

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Q: Is there negative marking scheme in CDS exam?

Yes, there is a negative marking scheme in the CDS exam. One-third of the marks assigned to a question are deducted for each incorrect answer. For example, if a question carries one mark and a candidate gives an incorrect answer, then 0.33 marks will be deducted from their total score. If a candidate leaves a question unanswered, there will be no negative marking for that question. It is important for candidates to be careful and avoid making wild guesses. They should attempt only those questions for which they are confident of the correct answer. This will help them avoid losing marks due to negative marking and improve their chances of qualifying for the interview round.

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