Preparing for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination 2026 requires a well-structured study plan, consistency, and smart execution. Whether you have 6 months or a full 12 months, the right strategy can help you clear the CDS written exam, SSB interview, and medical stage confidently.
This article provides two detailed preparation plans—6-month fast-track and 12-month long-term strategy—so you can choose what suits your timeline best.
Understanding CDS 2026 Exam Structure (Quick Overview)
Written Examination
English – 100 marks
General Knowledge – 100 marks
Mathematics – 100 marks (IMA/INA/AFA)
OTA: English + GK only
Next Stages
SSB Interview (5 days)
Medical Examination
Final Merit List
Key Principles for CDS Preparation
Concept clarity > number of hours
Regular revision is mandatory
Previous year questions are critical
SSB preparation should start early
Physical fitness must be maintained throughout
CDS 2026 – 6-Month Study Plan (Fast-Track Strategy)
Ideal for:
Repeat aspirants
Candidates with basic foundation
Final-year students
Month 1–2: Core Concepts & Basics
English
Grammar rules (tenses, articles, prepositions)
Vocabulary (20 words/day)
Error spotting & sentence improvement
General Knowledge
NCERT (Class 6–8)
History & Geography basics
Daily current affairs (30 minutes)
Mathematics
Arithmetic (percentages, profit & loss, ratio)
Algebra basics
Geometry fundamentals
Month 3–4: Advanced Coverage & Practice
NCERT (Class 9–10)
Polity & Science
Full Maths syllabus completion
Start previous year CDS papers
Weekly mock tests
Month 5: Revision & Speed Building
Topic-wise revision
Short notes & formulas
Sectional mock tests
Improve accuracy & time management
Month 6: Full Mock Tests & Final Revision
2–3 full-length mocks per week
Error analysis
Focus on weak areas
Light SSB & fitness focus
CDS 2026 – 12-Month Study Plan (Long-Term Strategy)
Ideal for:
Beginners
Non-math background candidates
Working professionals
Phase 1 (Months 1–4): Foundation Building
English grammar & vocabulary
NCERT GK (Class 6–8)
Maths basics (Class 8–9 level)
Daily newspaper reading
Phase 2 (Months 5–8): Syllabus Completion
NCERT (Class 9–10)
Polity, Science, Economy
Complete Maths syllabus
Start PYQs & sectional tests
Phase 3 (Months 9–10): Practice & Accuracy
Weekly full-length mocks
Previous year paper analysis
Strengthen weak areas
Phase 4 (Months 11–12): Final Revision & Exam Readiness
Intensive revision
Formula & fact consolidation
Time management strategy
Mental & physical preparation
Subject-Wise Preparation Strategy
English
Daily practice
Focus on grammar & comprehension
Avoid memorising rules blindly
General Knowledge
Static GK is the backbone
Revise current affairs monthly
Avoid unnecessary facts
Mathematics
Daily practice
Use shortcuts & formulas
Don’t fear Maths—practice reduces fear
SSB Preparation Alongside Written Exam
Develop OLQs naturally
Improve communication
Group discussions & leadership roles
Physical fitness routine
Daily Study Time Recommendation
| Timeline | Daily Study Hours |
|---|---|
| 6 Months Plan | 5–6 hours |
| 12 Months Plan | 3–4 hours |
Books & Resources (Minimal Approach)
English: Grammar + practice book
GK: NCERT + current affairs
Maths: One CDS-level maths book
Previous Year Question Papers
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring revision
Overloading with too many books
Delaying mock tests
Ignoring SSB & fitness
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is 6 months enough for CDS preparation?
Yes, with consistent and focused preparation.
Q2. Which plan is better—6 or 12 months?
Depends on your foundation and available time.
Q3. Can beginners clear CDS in first attempt?
Yes, many do with proper planning.
Q4. Is Maths compulsory for all CDS entries?
No. OTA candidates don’t have Maths.
Q5. How many mock tests are required?
At least 20–30 full-length mock tests.
Q6. When should SSB preparation start?
From day one—SSB is personality-based.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a 6-month fast-track plan or a 12-month long-term strategy, success in CDS 2026 depends on discipline, consistency, and smart preparation.
Stick to your plan, revise regularly, and stay physically fit. With the right mindset and strategy, clearing CDS 2026 is completely achievable.
