General Ability Test (GAT) Preparation Tips for NDA April 2026

Introduction

The General Ability Test (GAT) in the NDA April 2026 Exam carries 600 marks, making it the most crucial section for aspirants. While Mathematics is important, GAT often decides the final cut-off because of its vast coverage of English, General Knowledge, Science, and Current Affairs.

To succeed, aspirants need a clear study plan, subject-wise strategy, and consistent practice. In this article, we’ll share GAT preparation tips for NDA April 2026 along with insights into how Victor Growth Coaching helps aspirants master this section.

NDA April 2026 GAT Exam Structure

The GAT paper is divided into two parts:

• Part A – English (200 marks)

  • Grammar

  • Vocabulary (synonyms, antonyms, idioms, one-word substitutions)

  • Comprehension passages

  • Error spotting and sentence correction

• Part B – General Knowledge (400 marks)
  Covers:

  • Physics – Mechanics, Heat, Optics, Electricity, Magnetism

  • Chemistry – Elements, reactions, acids, bases, daily-life applications

  • Biology – Human physiology, nutrition, diseases, environment

  • History – Ancient, Medieval, and Modern India, Freedom Movement

  • Geography – Physical geography, climate, Indian agriculture, natural resources

  • Current Affairs – National & international events, defence updates, awards, politics

👉 With 150 questions in 2.5 hours, time management is crucial.

English Preparation Tips (200 Marks)

1. Build Vocabulary Daily

   • Learn 10–15 new words daily with synonyms/antonyms.

   • Use flashcards and vocabulary apps.

2. Revise Grammar Rules

   • Focus on tenses, prepositions, subject-verb agreement.

   • Solve error spotting exercises regularly.

3. Practice Reading Comprehension

   • Read newspapers, magazines, and practice comprehension questions.

4. Shortcut:

   • For spotting errors, read the sentence aloud in your head – incorrect grammar usually “sounds wrong.”

General Knowledge Preparation Tips (400 Marks)

Physics

• Revise NCERT Class 9–12 Physics basics.

• Focus on formulas and numerical applications.

• Shortcut: Memorize dimensional formulas to quickly eliminate wrong options.

Chemistry

• Revise periodic table, acids/bases, reactions.

• Learn practical examples (e.g., bleaching powder, water purification).

• Shortcut: Group elements by trends (electronegativity, atomic size).

Biology

• Focus on human body systems (circulatory, digestive, nervous).

• Diseases, nutrition, and ecology are common questions.

• Shortcut: Use mnemonics for biological classifications.

History

• Learn important dates/events of Indian freedom struggle.

• Revise Constitutional developments, reform movements, and leaders.

• Shortcut: Create timelines for easy recall.

Geography

• Map-based learning – locate rivers, mountains, crops.

• Revise Indian monsoon, soil types, natural vegetation.

• Shortcut: Use visual maps to remember locations.

Current Affairs

• Read newspapers daily.

• Follow monthly current affairs magazines.

• Cover last 6–12 months before the exam.

• Shortcut: Make weekly notes for revision.

Time Management Tips for NDA GAT

1. Attempt English first (faster & more scoring).

2. Spend max 30–40 minutes on English, then move to GK.

3. In GK, prioritize familiar subjects (Physics, History, Geography).

4. Don’t waste time on tough questions – skip and return later.

5. Aim for at least 85–90 questions with accuracy.

6-Month Preparation Plan for NDA April 2026 GAT

Months 1–2 (Foundation)

• Complete NCERT basics for Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography.

• Start vocabulary journal for English.

Months 3–4 (Practice)

• Solve previous year GAT papers.

• Attempt sectional tests for English and GK.

• Revise current affairs weekly.

Months 5–6 (Exam Simulation)

• Attempt full-length NDA mocks weekly.

• Revise short notes (formulas, vocab, current affairs).

• Focus on accuracy and speed.

Why Choose Victor Growth Coaching for NDA GAT Preparation?

At Victor Growth Coaching, we provide structured, expert-driven GAT training:

• Subject-Wise Classes for English, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, and Geography.

• Exclusive Current Affairs Modules updated monthly.

• Shortcut Techniques for quick problem-solving.

• Test Series & Mock Exams to improve speed and accuracy.

• Doubt-Clearing & Personal Mentorship to guide weak areas.

• SSB Interview Training alongside written exam prep.

• Affordable Fee Structure for all aspirants.

👉 With Victor Growth, aspirants don’t just prepare for NDA – they master every subject of GAT with confidence.

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FAQs on NDA April 2026 GAT Preparation

Q1. How many questions are in NDA GAT?
150 questions carrying 600 marks.

Q2. Which section is more important in GAT – English or GK?
Both are important, but English is often easier and more scoring.

Q3. How do I prepare current affairs for NDA April 2026?
Read newspapers daily and revise monthly current affairs magazines for at least 6–12 months before the exam.

Q4. Can NCERT books cover the GK portion?
Yes, NCERTs are the foundation. For updates, add newspapers and current affairs sources.

Q5. Is coaching necessary for GAT preparation?
Self-study helps, but coaching provides discipline, shortcuts, and mock practice – essential for cracking NDA.

Q6. Does Victor Growth provide subject-specific coaching for GAT?
Yes. Victor Growth offers English + GK subject-wise coaching, test series, and SSB prep under one program.

Q7. How much time should I dedicate to GAT daily?
At least 2–3 hours daily, with a mix of English practice, GK revision, and current affairs.