The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination conducted by UPSC is one of the most prestigious gateways to join the Indian Armed Forces. Among the three sections of the written exam—English, General Knowledge (GK), and Elementary Mathematics—the General Knowledge section is considered the most challenging due to its vast and unpredictable nature.
If you are appearing for CDS April 2026 Exam, mastering General Knowledge is crucial to clearing the cut-off. This guide will provide a comprehensive strategy, topic-wise preparation tips, study resources, and expert techniques to score high in GK.
Importance of GK in CDS 2026 Exam
Number of Questions: 120
Total Marks: 100
Time Duration: 2 hours
The GK section covers current affairs, static GK, history, geography, polity, economy, science, defense-related topics, and international relations. Since there is negative marking (1/3rd per wrong answer), smart preparation is the key.
Subject-Wise Strategy to Prepare GK for CDS April 2026
1. Current Affairs
Focus on last 12 months of national and international news.
Prioritize defense exercises, military agreements, government schemes, and India’s relations with neighboring countries.
Read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express daily.
Follow monthly current affairs magazines (e.g., Pratiyogita Darpan).
Revise budget, economic survey, and defense acquisitions.
👉 Victor Growth Tip: At Victor Growth, we provide monthly current affairs capsules and CDS-specific current affairs analysis for easy revision.
2. History
Ancient & Medieval History: Focus on cultural heritage, art & architecture.
Modern History: Indian freedom struggle, important movements, and leaders.
World History (basic): World Wars, American & French Revolution.
👉 Smart Prep: Study NCERTs (Class 6–12) and Lucent’s General Knowledge for quick revision.
3. Geography
Indian Geography: Physical features, climate, soil, agriculture, and industries.
World Geography: Important rivers, mountains, oceans, and mineral resources.
Focus on environmental geography and climate change (UPSC favorite).
👉 Use maps and practice atlas-based learning.
4. Indian Polity
Constitution of India – fundamental rights, duties, directive principles.
Structure of Parliament, President, Prime Minister, Governor, Supreme Court, High Courts.
Emergency provisions, constitutional amendments.
Latest bills and acts.
👉 Recommended Book: M. Laxmikanth’s Indian Polity (must-read).
5. Economy
Basics of Indian economy, GDP, inflation, banking, taxation.
Union Budget and Economic Survey (summary).
Government schemes like PM Gati Shakti, Digital India, etc.
👉 Focus on concepts rather than mugging up facts.
6. Science & Technology
Physics, Chemistry, Biology (up to Class 10 level NCERTs).
ISRO missions, DRDO developments, space technology, nuclear energy.
Biotechnology and environment-related topics.
7. Defence Knowledge
Latest defense exercises (e.g., Indra, Malabar, Yudh Abhyas).
Missile systems (Agni, Prithvi, BrahMos).
Ranks and commands in Army, Navy, Air Force.
Recent defense acquisitions and modernization programs.
👉 Victor Growth provides exclusive Defense GK notes tailored for CDS aspirants.
Preparation Timeline for CDS April 2026
Step 1: (Sept 2024 – Sept 2025)
Build foundation using NCERTs (6–12) for history, geography, polity, science.
Read newspaper daily + monthly magazines.
Step 2: (Oct 2025 – Jan 2026)
Solve previous year CDS GK papers (last 10 years).
Revise important static GK topics.
Prepare notes on current affairs.
Step 3: (Feb – April 2026)
Rapid revision through notes and capsules.
Attempt mock tests for time management.
Revise frequently asked defense-related topics.
Best Books & Resources for CDS GK
NCERTs (Class 6–12) – History, Geography, Polity, Science.
Lucent’s GK – For quick facts.
M. Laxmikanth – Indian Polity.
Spectrum – Modern Indian History.
Manorama Yearbook & Newspapers.
Victor Growth Study Materials – CDS-targeted GK handouts, current affairs capsules, and mock tests.
Smart Tips to Score High in GK
Daily Revision: Spend at least 2 hours daily on GK.
Note-Making: Prepare crisp notes for revision.
Mock Practice: Attempt sectional tests regularly.
Avoid Guesswork: Attempt only when 70–80% sure.
Stay Consistent: GK requires daily effort, not last-minute cramming.
Why Choose Victor Growth for CDS GK Preparation?
Expert Faculty: Subject-wise mentors for GK.
Monthly Current Affairs Capsules designed for CDS exam.
Defence-Specific GK Materials focusing on military news & exercises.
Mock Tests & Doubt Sessions to improve accuracy.
Result-Oriented Coaching: Many toppers of CDS credit Victor Growth for structured guidance.
👉 Join Victor Growth and make your CDS April 2026 dream a reality.
FAQs on Preparing General Knowledge for CDS April 2026
Q1. How many months of current affairs should I prepare for CDS 2026?
You should prepare at least 12 months of current affairs before the exam, with special focus on the last 6 months.
Q2. Is NCERT enough for CDS GK preparation?
NCERTs (6–12) are the foundation, but you must supplement them with books like Lucent GK, Laxmikanth Polity, and current affairs magazines.
Q3. Which newspaper is best for CDS GK?
The Hindu and Indian Express are the most recommended for daily preparation.
Q4. How to cover defense-related GK?
Follow PIB, Ministry of Defence updates, and Victor Growth’s defense GK modules for simplified coverage.
Q5. Can I crack GK without coaching?
Yes, self-study with the right books is possible, but structured coaching at Victor Growth ensures better time management and targeted preparation.
