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How to Prepare for CDS Exam 2024, Preparation Tips
Updated on Sep 01, 2024 09:15 AM IST | #CDS
Upcoming Event
CDS Exam Date : 14 Sep' 2025 - 14 Sep' 2025
For pointers on preparing thoroughly for the CDS exam, candidates can refer to the following CDS 2024 preparation tips. The first step towards preparation is the preparation of a robust CDS preparation strategy. Strategizing well permits candidates to cover the entire syllabus on time.
Candidates can also look out for the section-wise CDS preparation tips 2024 given below for some extra tips for preparing for specific sections of the CDS exam. Going through the CDS CDS exam analysis is also helpful when it comes to getting an idea of the types of questions or topics covered by the CDS exam. It is also recommended to use the previous year's CDS question papers for preparation.
This Story also Contains
- CDS 2024 Preparation Strategy
- How to Prepare for CDS 2024
- CDS Exam Pattern 2024
- CDS Syllabus 2024
CDS 2024 Preparation Strategy
To prepare for the CDS exam 2024, candidates must make a study plan for their effective preparations. For CDS preparation 2024, candidates must make a study plan as per the syllabus and exam pattern. For more details, check section-wise CDS preparation tips 2024 below.
CDS Preparation Tips for English
To get good marks on English papers, aspirants must study grammar rules while preparing. Along with that, they should also prepare idioms and phrases thoroughly, by following these preparation tips you will be able to increase your score in the English paper.
CDS Preparation Tips for General Knowledge
The best preparation tip for this section is to identify the high-weightage topics after studying the previous years' CDS question papers. Then revise important sections from those topics. Read the current affairs of the last five to six months properly.
CDS Preparation Tips for Mathematics
Candidates should focus on solving previous years' CDS question papers, to know the difficulty level of the maths section. By preparing this way, you will be able to increase your preparation level for this section. Attempt as many mock tests as you can. This will help you to increase your speed and express your knowledge in the paper correctly. Revise all the important formulas thoroughly.
How to Prepare for CDS 2024
For those who have a question about how to start preparing for CDS, the below preparation tips will solve that. Candidates preparing for the CDS exam 2024, must check the CDS Preparation Tips 2024 for effective preparations. Candidates must make a study plan to study in a planned manner. For more tips and tricks for CDS preparation. Candidates can check the details mentioned below.
CDS Preparation Tips 2024 - Prepare CDS Study Plan
To start the CDS exam 2024 preparation, candidates must make a study plan. Applicants must divide their time equally among all the topics asked in the exam. It also helps to complete the CDS syllabus 2024 in time. The study plan also helps to keep the focus on the goal.
CDS Preparation Tips 2024 - Choose Best Books For CDS Exam 2024
Candidates must select the best books for CDS 2024 for their CDS 2024 exam preparation. Applicants can check important topics and chapters asked in the exam. Candidates can also check the marking scheme and exam pattern with the help of CDS books 2024. Candidates can also check the CDS Cut off 2024 to set a target for themselves.
Quick links - CDS Application Form 2024
CDS Preparation Tips 2024 - Make Short Notes
Applicants must prepare short notes for the last minute revision. The short notes must include important formulas, basic concepts and shortcuts for the CDS exam 2024. Short notes help to revise the syllabus in one go in a very short time. Revision plays a very crucial role in preparation for CDS 2024 exam. Applicants must also check to prepare for CDS Elementary Mathematics for their preparations.
CDS Preparation Tips 2024 - Practice Previous Year Question Papers
After covering the entire CDS syllabus, candidates must practice the previous years’ question papers. Practising CDS question papers 2024 will help to find out previously asked topics and chapters in the CDS exam. Candidates can also find out their strong and weak areas with the help of question papers.
Also check - CDS Answer key 2024
CDS Preparation Tips 2024 - Practice Mock Test
After completion of all the syllabus, candidates must practice the online mock test for their preparations. With the help of CDS mock tests candidates can improve both their speed and accuracy. Candidates must also check how to prepare for the CDS English section for their exam preparation.
Also read: Basic Information about category-wise career exams
- Top 20 Career Exams for Central Government Jobs
- Top 14 Banking Exams in Govt Financial Sector
- Top 13 UPSC Exams in India
- Top 7 Defence Exams in India
- Top 8 SSC Exams in Central Government Jobs
- Top 7 Railway (RRB) Exams
CDS Exam Pattern 2024
The first step to start the CDS preparation 2024 is to go through CDS exam pattern thoroughly. Candidates must check all the topics and marking schemes to prepare for the CDS exam. For more details about the CDS exam pattern, candidates can check the table given below.
CDS Exam Pattern For INA, IMA & IFA
Subject | Number of questions | Maximum marks | Exam duration |
Elementary Mathematics | 100 | 100 | 2 hours |
English | 120 | 100 | 2 hours |
General Knowledge | 120 | 100 | 2 hours |
Total | 340 | 300 | 6 hours |
CDS Exam Pattern For OTA
Subject | Number of questions | Maximum marks | Exam duration |
English | 120 | 100 | 2 hours |
General Knowledge | 120 | 100 | 2 hours |
Total | 240 | 200 | 4 hours |
Free download Ebook: Complete guide for UPSC CSE exam preparation
CDS Syllabus 2024
Candidates preparing for the CDS exam must check the CDS 2024 syllabus for their effective reparations. With the help of the CDS syllabus, candidates can check important topics and chapters asked in the exam. For more details, candidates can check the table given below.
CDS Exam Topics
Subject | Topic |
English |
|
General Knowledge |
|
Elementary Mathematics |
|
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When will the CDS 02/2024 exam be conducted?
The CDS 2 2024 exam date is September 1, 2024.
2. What is the full form of CDS?
The Full form of CDS is “Combined Defence Services” exam.
3. What are the details required to download the admit card of CDS 2024?
Candidates will be able to download the CDS admit card 2024 through their registration number and date of birth.
4. Can I challenge CDS English answer key 2024?
No, candidates can not challenge the answer key of CDS 2024.
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Have a question related to CDS ?
Hi dear candidate,
To be eligible for CDS 1 Exam 2026, your age should fall between 20 to 24 years old. And with your date of birth of 21 December 2002, means that you will be 23 years old as of 1st January, 2026. CDS 1 exam 2026 is expected to take place in April 2026.
Considering the above:
Yes, you will be able to give exam for CDS 1 in 2026.
ALL THE BEST !
Aryan 07 July,2025
Yes, You are eligible to apply for CDS OTA 2026(April exam) Based on your date of birth
Make sure you also:
- Graduation degree from a recognised(Or are in the final year).
- Or unmarried(For OTASSC non-technical entry).
- Meet the required, medical and physical standard as per SSB/UPSE Norms .
Avanishsree VP 10 June,2025
Hello Aditya,
As a PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) student after your 12th board exam, you cannot directly appear for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam because it requires a bachelor’s degree. However, here’s a clear and concise guide on how you can prepare for and give the CDS exam after completing further studies, tailored to your background:
-
Understand CDS Eligibility
: The CDS exam, conducted by UPSC twice a year, recruits for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA).
-
Educational Requirement
:
- IMA and OTA: Any bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- INA: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.
-
AFA: Bachelor’s degree with Physics and Mathematics at 12th level or Bachelor of Engineering.
-
For PCB Students
: Since you don’t have Mathematics in 12th, you’re eligible for
IMA and OTA
after completing a bachelor’s degree (e.g., B.Sc., B.A.). INA and AFA are not an option unless you pursue an engineering degree or have Mathematics at the graduation level.
-
Age Limit
: 19–25 years (varies by academy; check upsc.gov.in for 2025 details).
-
Educational Requirement
:
-
Steps to Prepare After 12th
:
-
Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree
: Enroll in a degree program (e.g., B.Sc. in Biology, Chemistry, or related fields, or even B.A.) to meet CDS eligibility. This takes 3–4 years.
-
Apply for CDS During Final Year
: You can apply for CDS in the final year of your degree, provided you complete graduation before the training starts.
-
Application Process
:
-
Visit upsconline.nic.in when notifications are released (typically
December 2024
for CDS I 2025 and
May 2025
for CDS II 2025).
-
Fill out the form, pay the fee (Rs. 200; exemptions for SC/ST/females), and select IMA/OTA as your preference.
-
Visit upsconline.nic.in when notifications are released (typically
December 2024
for CDS I 2025 and
May 2025
for CDS II 2025).
-
Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree
: Enroll in a degree program (e.g., B.Sc. in Biology, Chemistry, or related fields, or even B.A.) to meet CDS eligibility. This takes 3–4 years.
-
CDS Exam Structure
:
-
For IMA/OTA
: Written exam includes English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (Maths is optional for OTA).
-
PCB Advantage
: Your Biology and Chemistry background helps with General Knowledge (science sections). English preparation is manageable with practice.
-
Challenge
: If you’re weak in Mathematics, focus on OTA, where Maths is not required, or practice basic 10th-level Maths for IMA.
- Next Steps : Clear the written exam, then pass the SSB interview and medical test.
-
For IMA/OTA
: Written exam includes English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (Maths is optional for OTA).
I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries, feel free to share your questions with us, and we will be happy to assist you.
Thank you, and I wish you all the best in your bright future.
kumardurgesh1802 20 May,2025
To prepare for CDS, CGL, and CAT during graduation, create a clear study schedule focusing on basics, reasoning, and aptitude. Practice daily mocks, improve time management, and stay consistent. Balance college and preparation with discipline and regular revision.
Sujal Singh 20 May,2025
Your date of birth is 24th February 2006, and you will complete graduation in July 2028. For the CDS exam, the maximum number of attempts depends on your age limit and category, but generally, candidates have around 4 to 6 attempts before reaching the age limit.
Sujal Singh 20 May,2025
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