UPSC CDS 1 Question Paper 2025: Download English, GK Maths Paper, Previous Year Question Papers PDFs

Registration: 11 Dec '24 - 31 Dec '24

Updated on Nov 25, 2024 16:10 IST

CDS 1 Question Papers 2025: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will release the CDS 1 2025 question papers after the conduction of an exam. Candidates can raise objections against CDS 1 question papers 2025 via the question paper representation portal. Solving CDS question papers will help aspirants to know the types of questions asked in the CDS exam, the difficulty level of questions, the CDS exam pattern weightage given to the topics, and important segments of the syllabus. UPSC CDS question papers/sample papers are the best resources for preparation. Besides solving the question. Candidates can download CDS question paper PDF from this page for different sets of test booklets- A, B, C, and D for English, GK, and Maths.

The authority released the CDS 2 Question Paper 2024 officially. Candidates can refer to the CDS 2 question papers while checking the CDS 2 Answer Key 2024. UPSC announced a total combined vacancy of 459 (for IMA, INA, AFA, & OTA).

Also Read: CDS Preparation Tips

Q: Is CDS Question Paper 2025 released officially?

Yes, the examination authority will release the CDS Question Papers 2025 officially on the official website. The question papers will be released in the form of PDF. Candidates will be able to download the CDS question papers 2025 from this page also for free. The question papers will help candidates to check the difficulty level of the exam, questions asked, pattern changed or not, etc.

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Q: How do I download CDS Question papers 2025?

Candidates can check below the steps to download the CDS question papers for free.

Visit our website; Shiksha.com.
Create your profile by mentioning certain details.
Once a profile is generated, you will be able to download the question papers for free.
Download and save it.

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Q: How many question should I answer to get a good score in the CDS exam?

The candidates must solve more than 50 per cent questions to secure safe marks in order to qualify the CDS cut off. However, to qualify for the CDS exam, the candidates must secure more than 70 per cent marks to get selected for the CDS SSB interview surely. The candidates selected for the SSB interview will be assessed for their mental, physical, and medical ability. The candidates will be considered qualified for the SSB after qualifying the SSB interview. However, the marks of the interview can't be predicted as it completely depends upon the boards and interview panelists. The candidates must not that If they are NIT recommended by the board after the SSB interview they will not move forward for the next stage of the CDS selection to be come Commissioned Officers on the Indian Armed Forces.

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Q: Is there any question repetition in the CDS exam?

Yes, sometimes questions do get repeated in the CDS exam. However, the UPSC does not directly repeat the question word for word; instead, the basic part gets repeated. For example, you can SEE questions on Article 32 in different years framed differently. From the analysis of the previous year's question paper, it can be concluded that important themes get revisited in CDS. This is the same for GK, math, and English papers. This is why experts and toppers always suggest analyzing the previous year's question paper. By analyzing previous year's question Sets you can not just make a list of such repetitive themes but also understand the patterns in which questions can be framed. Hence, you must start CDS preparation by solving PYQ.

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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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Table of Contents

CDS 1 2025 English, GK & Maths Question Paper
Was CDS 2 Paper 2024 Easy?
CDS Previous Years Question Papers
What is CDS Previous Year Paper?
Do CDS Questions Repeat?
CDS Previous Year Question Paper
Importance of UPSC CDS Question Papers
How to Challenge CDS Question Papers 2025?
CDS Exam Pattern 2025
CDS Syllabus 2025

CDS 1 2025 English, GK & Maths Question Paper

Candidates will be able to check CDS 1 Question papers 2025 below once they are released. Candidates can also raise objection against the CDS 1 Question papers 2025.Till then candidates can check here the CDS 2 2024 English, GK and Maths question paper pdf officially.

Paper	Download PDF
CDS 2 English Paper 2024 PDF (Set A)	Download Here
CDS 2 GK Paper 2024 PDF (Set A)	Download Here
CDS 2 Maths Paper 2024 PDF (Set A)	Download Here

Was CDS 2 Paper 2024 Easy?

The difficulty level of the CDS 2 English paper was easy but lengthy in terms of difficulty level. and for GK was moderate. Questions were asked from Current Affairs, SCience, history, geography, etc. as per the students. Also, Maths exam was moderate.

Q: How many questions are asked in the English section of CDS exam?

Total number of questions asked in the English Language of CDS exam is 120. These questions are asked from different sections. These sections has been given below for the candidates: a) Basic Grammar b) Idioms & Phrases c) Synonyms and Antonyms d) Reading Comprehension Solving e) Substitution of Words f) Error Spotting g) Para Jumbles.

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Q: How many question should I answer to get a good score in the CDS exam?

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Q: How many questions are asked in the Maths section of CDS exam?

The CDS question paper for Mathematics carries a total of 100 questions. The section from which the questions are asked has been given below for the candidates: a) Profit and loss b) Elementary Number Theory: Division algorithm c) Prime and composite numbers: Tests of divisibility by 2, 3, 4, 5, 9 and 11. d) Multiples and factors e) Factorisation Theorem, etc. The candidates must go through these Maths section to secure maximum marks as these section comprise maximum marks in the question paper in the Maths section.

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Download previous year CDS question papers and sample papers. Use them for practice and improve your speed and accuracy. You can download CDS previous year question papers and the preparation guides for free.

CDS Previous Years Question Papers

CDS 1 2024 Question Papers

CDS 1 Maths Question Paper 2024 (1)

CDS 1 GK Question Papers (1)

CDS 1 English Question Paper (2)

CDS 2 2023 Question Papers

CDS 2 ENGLISH Question Paper 2023

CDS 2 General Knowledge Question Paper 2023

CDS 2 2023 Maths Question Paper

CDS 1 2023 Question Papers

CDS-1-2023-GK-Question Paper

CDS 1 2023 Actual Question Papers English

CDS 1 Question Paper Set D (1)

CDS 1 Question Paper Set C (1)

CDS 1 Maths Question Paper Set B (1)

CDS 1 Maths Question Paper Set A (1)

CDS 2022 Question Papers

CDS 2022 English Actual Question Papers

CDS_1_2022_Maths_Actual_Question_Paper

CDS_1_2022__GK_Actual_Question_Paper

CDS 2021 Question Papers

CDS (1) 2021 Actual Question Paper for English

CDS (1) 2021 Actual Question Paper for Maths

CDS 2021 Actual Question Paper for GK

CDS_II_2021_Actual_Question_Paper_For_Elementary_Maths

CDS 2020 Question Papers

CDS II Question Paper 2020 for Elementary Maths

CDS II Question Paper 2020 for English

CDS II Question Paper 2020 for General Knowledge

CDS 2019 Question Papers

CDS_1_2019_Actual_Question_Paper_For_English

CDS_1_2019_Actual_Question_Paper_For_Maths

CDS_2_2019_Actual_Question_Papers_For_Maths

CDS_1_2019_Actual_Question_Paper_For_GA 1

CDS_2_2019_Actual_Question_Paper_For_GA 1

CDS 2017 Question Papers

CDS 2017 Paper 1 Actual Question Paper Elementary Mathematics

CDS 2017 Paper 1 Actual Question Paper English

CDS 2017 Paper 2 Actual Question Paper Elementary Mathematics

CDS 2017 Paper 1 Actual Question Paper General Knowledge

CDS 2017 Paper 2 Actual Question Paper English

CDS 2017 Paper 2 Actual Question Paper General Knowledge

CDS 2018 Question Papers

CDS 2018 Paper I Actual Question Paper Elementary Mathematics

CDS 2018 Paper I Actual Question Paper English

CDS 2018 Paper I Actual Question Paper General Knowledge

CDS 2016 Question Papers

CDS 2016 Paper 1 Actual Question Paper English

CDS 2016 Paper 1 Actual Question Paper Elementary Maths

CDS 2016 Paper 1 Actual Question Paper General Knowledge

CDS 2016 Paper 2 Actual Question Paper Elementary Mathematics

CDS 2016 Paper 2 Actual Question Paper English

CDS 2016 Paper 2 Actual Question Paper General Knowledge

CDS 2015 Question Papers

CDS 2015 Paper 1 Actual Question Paper Elementary Mathematics

CDS 2015 Paper 2 Actual Question Paper English

CDS 2015 Paper 2 Actual Question Paper General Knowledge

What is CDS Previous Year Paper?

CDS question paper for INA, IMA, AFA comprises three subjects-Elementary Maths, General Awareness, and English. The question paper for OTA comprises two subjects-General Awareness, English.

Do CDS Questions Repeat?

One can find a lot of questions repeated in the CDS exam, especially the static general section of the CDS exam. More than 50 per cent topics asked in the CDS exam are repetitive.

CDS Previous Year Question Paper

When beginning with the preparation for Combined Defence Service Examination, it is important to go through CDS previous years' question papers to know the pattern of questions asked in the exam. Solving the CDS previous years question papers helps candidates to understand the types of questions asked in the exam, nature of questions, and difficulty level of questions.

Related Links: CDS 1 2025 Admit Card

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Importance of UPSC CDS Question Papers

The benefits of solving CDS question papers are given below:

Familiarity with CDS Exam Pattern

The best way to crack the exam is to develop an understanding of CDS exam pattern. Referring to previous years' question papers helps candidates to do this by providing them with the necessary information about the CDS syllabus and topics covered in the exam. It also helps in determining the weightage of marks allotted to different topics. Accordingly, candidates can draft preparation strategies for the exam.

Understanding of Question Format

CDS question papers offer a detailed understanding of the type, nature, and format of questions asked in the exam. Besides, they also explain to candidates the level of difficulty of questions from a particular section.

Helps in Finding Important Topics

Going through CDS question papers, candidates are able to find out the important topics. There are certain topics that are asked every year in the exam. Candidates can prepare those topics for the exam in priority.

Helps in Practice

We all know Practice Makes Man Perfect. The more candidates solve CDS question papers, the more they will be familiar with the type and nature of questions being asked in the exam. It will help candidates to learn time management during exams. It also improves the speed and accuracy of candidates.

Assesses Performance

CDS question papers help candidates assess their preparation and track their progress. It also helps in identifying the weak and strong areas. Accordingly, candidates can beef up their preparation to improve the weak areas.

Q: What are the benefits of solving CDS exam sample papers?

Solving CDS exam sample papers has several benefits that are mentioned below: Helps in understanding the exam pattern: CDS sample gives the candidates and idea about the exam pattern, marking schemes, and the type of question asked in the exam. This knowledge can be used in preparing for the CDS exam and improve their performance on the actual exam day Identifies the areas of strength and weakness: Solving CDS sample papers will help the candidates in identifying their areas of strength and weakness. This will allow the candidates to focus on the topics they need to work on and improve their overall performance Improves time management skills: CDS exam sample papers are timed, and solving them will the candidates in developing time management skills. Overall, solving CDS exam sample papers is an effective way to prepare for the CDS exam and improve the chances of getting selected.

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Q: What are the common mistakes to avoid during the CDS exam?

Here are some common mistakes to avoid during the CDS exam: 1. Not reading the instructions carefully: It is essential to read the instructions carefully before beginning the exam. Not doing so can lead to mistakes, such as marking the answers in the wrong format or not following the required instructions. 2. Not managing time effectively: Time management is crucial for success in the CDS exam. Not managing time effectively can lead to unfinished sections, incomplete answers, and poor overall performance. 3. Not attempting all sections: It is important to attempt all sections of the exam, as each section carries equal weightage. Avoid skipping any section, even if you are not confident in it. 4. Not revising the answers: Not revising the answers before submitting the exam can lead to careless mistakes. Make sure to review your answers and revise any mistakes before submitting the exam. 5. Not staying calm and composed: The CDS exam can be stressful, and it is important to stay calm and composed throughout the exam. Avoid getting nervous or anxious, and focus on your performance. 6. Not following a strategy: It is important to have a strategy for attempting the exam. Not having a strategy can lead to confusion, mistakes, and poor performance. 7. Guessing blindly: Guessing blindly can lead to negative marking and reduce your overall score. It is essential to make an educated guess based on your knowledge and eliminate the options that are clearly incorrect. Remember, avoiding these common mistakes can significantly improve your overall performance in the CDS exam. Make sure to read the instructions carefully, manage your time effectively, attempt all sections, revise your answers, stay calm and composed, follow a strategy, and make educated guesses to avoid any mistakes. Additionally, focus on understanding the concepts, revise regularly, and practice mock tests to improve your overall performance and increase your chances of success in the CDS exam.

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Q: How many sample paper I should solve to prepare effectively for the CDS exam?

The number of CDS exam sample papers a candidate should solve depends on their level of preparation, time available, and level of confidence for the exam. However, a good rule of thumb is to solve at least 10 to 15 sample papers before the actual exam. Candidates should start solving the previous year's question papers and then move on to the latest sample papers available. This will give the candidates a good understanding of the type of questions asked in the exam and help in identifying the areas need to be improved. It is important to solve sample papers in simulated exam environment, with a set time limit, and without any distractions. This will help the candidates in improving their time management skills and build confidence.

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How to Challenge CDS Question Papers 2025?

Candidates have the facility to challenge CDS question papers released by UPSC. The process to challenge the question papers is given below:

Candidates can challenge the question papers through Online Question Paper Representation Portal (QPRep)
For each exam, the commission has fixed a time frame of seven days
To raise objections, candidates need to enter details like roll number, date of birth, and random image
After entering these details, candidates must submit their challenges

Direct Link: to be updated here

CDS Exam Pattern 2025

CDS 1 exam 2025 will be conducted offline. The exam for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA) comprises three sections. The test for these academies carries 300 marks. The exam pattern of the Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) has two sections. The total marks for the exam are 200. Candidates qualifying for the written exam are called for SSB Interview.

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: Are CDS sample papers similar to the CDS actual exam?

Yes, CDS sample papers are designed to simulate the actual CDS exam and are similar in terms of the exam pattern, marking scheme, and the type of questions asked. Solving CDS sample papers can give you a good idea about the structure of the exam, the difficulty level of the questions, and the time management skills required to complete the exam within the given time limit. However, it's important to note that the actual CDS exam can have variations in the difficulty level of the questions, the mix of topics, and the specific format of the questions. Therefore, while solving CDS sample papers can be a useful tool for exam preparation, it's also important to focus on understanding the concepts and revising regularly to improve your overall performance and increase your chances of success in the actual exam.

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Q: How many questions are asked in CDS General Awareness section?

The CDS General Awareness section comprises 120 question for 100 marks. The candidates need to solve all the questions as all question are compulsory. If the candidates leaves the question no marks will be awarded for it, however, if the candidates answer it wrong then the penalty of 1/3 marks will given against the wrong answer. The General Awareness section comprises questions from the Current Affairs general Science, history, polity, geography, Maths etc. The candidates can prepare for the CDS General Awareness section by following the analysis of the CDS exam and solving the previous year's question papers. However, the candidates must pen down that the CDS exam follows a negative pattern and they must marks their answer correctly or they will get their marks deducted.

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CDS Syllabus 2025

To solve CDS's previous year's question paper, candidates need to be well aware of the CDS syllabus. We have provided below the syllabus for English, GK and Maths.

Subjects	Topics
English	Antonyms, Sentence improvement, Comprehension, Synonyms, Spotting Errors, etc.
General Knowledge	Economics, Current Awareness, Defence, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, etc.
Elementary Maths	Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration, and Statistics, etc.