1. What is the NDA Exam?

• The NDA (National Defence Academy) exam is a national-level exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year. It is for candidates seeking entry into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

2. What are the eligibility criteria for the NDA exam?

• Nationality: Indian citizen or a subject of Bhutan/Nepal.
• Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years.
• Education: For the Army wing, candidates must have completed 10+2 in any stream. For the Air Force and Navy, candidates need 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics.
• Marital Status: Only unmarried male and female candidates are eligible.
• Physical Standards: Candidates must meet specific physical and medical standards.

3. What subjects are covered in the NDA exam?

• The NDA exam consists of two sections:
  • Mathematics: Topics include Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Statistics, Probability, and Calculus.
  • General Ability Test (GAT): Divided into English and General Knowledge, covering Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Events.

4. How can I start preparing for the NDA exam?

• Begin by understanding the syllabus and exam pattern.
• Focus on strengthening basics in Mathematics, and read NCERT books.
• For GAT, focus on English, General Knowledge, and Current Affairs. Newspapers and NCERT books are highly recommended.
• Practice time management, as both speed and accuracy are crucial.

5. What is the exam pattern for the NDA written test?

• Mathematics: 300 marks, 120 questions (2.5 marks per question).
• GAT: 600 marks, 150 questions (English – 200 marks, General Knowledge – 400 marks).
• Both sections are conducted in a multiple-choice format and have a negative marking for incorrect answers.

6. What should my daily study schedule look like?

• Devote at least 4–6 hours daily to NDA preparation.
• Divide time between Mathematics, English, and General Knowledge, with extra focus on your weaker areas.
• Allocate specific hours for revision and mock tests weekly.

7. How important is physical fitness for NDA preparation?

• Physical fitness is essential for clearing the SSB interview stage after the written exam. Daily exercise, including running, push-ups, and basic strength training, will help build stamina and physical endurance.

8. How can I improve my English for the NDA exam?

• Regular reading (newspapers, magazines, and English books), vocabulary building, and grammar practice are essential.
• Focus on comprehension, spotting errors, and improving your writing skills for better performance in the English section.

9. What resources or books should I use for NDA preparation?

• Mathematics: NCERT Mathematics textbooks (Class 11 & 12), RS Aggarwal, RD Sharma.
• General Ability Test (GAT): NCERT Science, History, Geography, and Civics books (Class 6–12), Lucent’s General Knowledge, and daily newspapers for Current Affairs.
• Mock Tests & Previous Papers: UPSC NDA/NA question papers from past years are crucial for practice.

10. How do I prepare for Current Affairs?

• Read newspapers like The Hindu or The Indian Express daily.
• Use monthly current affairs magazines or apps to keep up with recent events.
• Focus on national and international news, sports, science & technology, and important personalities.

11. What is the SSB Interview, and how do I prepare for it?

• After clearing the written exam, candidates are called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, a five-day process assessing personality, intelligence, and leadership skills.
• Preparation should include physical training, improving communication skills, and practicing for psychological and group tasks.
• Practice common SSB interview questions, current affairs topics, and participate in group discussions.

12. How can I manage NDA preparation with school studies?

• Prioritize your time by setting a daily schedule balancing school studies with NDA topics.
• Use weekends or holidays for intensive NDA preparation and mock tests.
• Focus on subjects that overlap, like Mathematics and Science, for better efficiency.

13. Is coaching necessary to clear the NDA exam?

• Coaching can be beneficial but is not mandatory. With discipline, self-study, and access to the right resources, candidates can successfully prepare on their own. However, coaching can provide structure, guidance, and mock interview preparation.

14. How do I manage time during the exam?

• Practice time-bound mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
• For Mathematics, aim to solve questions quickly by practicing shortcuts.
• For GAT, read questions carefully, and avoid spending too much time on any single question.

15. How can I stay motivated throughout NDA preparation?

• Set clear goals and break your preparation into smaller, manageable tasks.
• Take regular breaks, maintain physical activity, and connect with others preparing for the exam.
• Remember why you started and focus on the benefits of joining the NDA.