CDS FAQ
FAQs on CDS Exam Preparation
These FAQs provide a thorough overview for anyone preparing for the CDS exam, offering clear guidance on requirements, preparation strategies, and maintaining motivation.
The CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year. It is for candidates seeking entry into the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Officers Training Academy (OTA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA).
- Nationality: Indian citizen or a subject of Bhutan/Nepal.
- Age:
- IMA: Unmarried male candidates aged 19–24.
- INA: Unmarried male candidates aged 19–24.
- AFA: 19–24 years (for unmarried male candidates) or up to 26 years (if holding a valid Commercial Pilot Licence).
- OTA: Men aged 19–25; women (unmarried or widows/divorcees not remarried) aged 19–25.
- Age:
- For IMA, INA, and AFA:
- English: 100 marks, 2 hours.
- General Knowledge: 100 marks, 2 hours.
- Elementary Mathematics: 100 marks, 2 hours.
- For OTA:
- English: 100 marks, 2 hours.
- General Knowledge: 100 marks, 2 hours.
- All sections are multiple-choice questions, with a penalty for wrong answers.
- Begin by understanding the syllabus and exam pattern.
- Build a strong foundation in English, Mathematics, and General Knowledge.
- Refer to standard books, including NCERTs, for clarity on basic concepts.
- Practice previous years' question papers and take regular mock tests.
- English: Vocabulary, Grammar, Comprehension, Sentence Correction, Synonyms/Antonyms.
- General Knowledge: Topics include Current Affairs, History, Geography, Polity, Science, Economics, and other general topics.
- Elementary Mathematics (only for IMA, INA, and AFA): Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration, and Statistics.
- English: Wren & Martin for grammar, newspapers for vocabulary, and Lucent’s General English.
- General Knowledge: NCERT books for basic subjects, Lucent’s General Knowledge, and daily newspapers for current affairs.
- Mathematics: RS Aggarwal’s Quantitative Aptitude and NCERT Mathematics books for basics.
- Mock Tests & Previous Papers: Solving past UPSC CDS exam papers is essential for understanding the exam pattern.
Current affairs are crucial for the General Knowledge section. Reading newspapers, following monthly current affairs magazines, and practicing with current affairs quizzes will be beneficial.
- Devote at least 4–5 hours daily to CDS preparation.
- Divide study hours among English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics.
- Reserve weekends for mock tests and revision.
Mathematics is only compulsory for candidates appearing for IMA, INA, and AFA. Candidates appearing for OTA only need to take English and General Knowledge.
- Regular reading (newspapers, magazines, novels) can help improve vocabulary and comprehension.
- Practice grammar exercises, synonyms, antonyms, and sentence correction.
- Work on comprehension and writing skills, as these are tested in the English paper.
- Candidates must meet specific physical and medical standards, which vary by service (IMA, INA, AFA, OTA).
- General fitness, vision standards, height and weight requirements, and other health criteria must be met to qualify.
- After clearing the written exam, candidates are called for the SSB (Services Selection Board) interview, a five-day process that assesses personality, leadership qualities, and fitness.
- The SSB interview includes various tests like the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR), Picture Perception & Description Test (PPDT), psychological tests, group tasks, and a personal interview.
- Work on communication skills, physical fitness, and general awareness.
- Practice group discussions, and improve logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
- Mock interviews, group activities, and fitness routines will help build confidence.
Yes, candidates can apply for multiple academies (IMA, INA, AFA, OTA) in a single CDS application, depending on eligibility. If selected, candidates will be considered for admission based on their preferences and scores.
Coaching is optional. Many candidates prepare successfully on their own with disciplined study and access to quality resources. However, coaching can offer guidance, structure, and additional mock test resources.
- Dedicate specific hours to each subject and follow a daily study plan.
- Include time for revision, mock tests, and physical fitness training.
- Stay consistent and motivated, keeping track of your weekly progress
- Take mock tests regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
- In Mathematics, focus on solving questions using efficient methods.
- For English and General Knowledge, avoid spending too much time on one question and focus on covering the entire section.
Yes, solving past papers is highly recommended. It helps in understanding question patterns, familiarizes you with the level of difficulty, and boosts confidence.
- Start with NCERTs to build a base, then move on to advanced books.
- Allocate daily time for current affairs and focus on revising regularly.
- Cover topics like history, geography, polity, and science to ensure a well-rounded preparation.
- Set small, achievable goals and celebrate each milestone.
- Stay physically active, eat well, and take breaks to avoid burnout.
- Remind yourself of the honor and commitment associated with joining the armed forces.
