How to Prepare for NDA 2024 - Best NDA Preparation Tips, Shortcuts here

How to Prepare for NDA 2024 - Best NDA Preparation Tips, Shortcuts here

Updated on Apr 12, 2024 10:36 AM IST | #NDA

The UPSC holds the NDA Exam twice a year with the aim of recruiting candidates into the Indian Navy, Indian Army and Indian Air Force. The NDA exam is a popular competitive exam for recruitment into the Indian Defence Services. Candidates can prepare for the NDA 1 exam by following the tips and tricks provided below. The NDA 1 exam 2024 will be held on April 21, 2024.

How to Prepare for NDA 2024 - Best NDA Preparation Tips, Shortcuts here
How to Prepare for NDA 2024 - Best NDA Preparation Tips, Shortcuts here

NDA 2024 Important Dates

In the table below, candidates can find some dates of interest pertaining to the NDA exam. Candidates are encouraged to make note of the NDA 2024 exam dates for future reference and to use them to inform their preparation for the NDA exam.

NDA 1 Exam Dates 2024

Events

NDA 1 2024 Date

NDA 1 2024 notification

December 20, 2023

NDA 1 application form release

December 20, 2023

NDA 1 exam 2024

April 21, 2024

NDA 2 Exam Dates 2024

Events

NDA 2 2024 Date

NDA 2 2024 notification

May 15, 2024

NDA 2 application form release

May 15, 2024

NDA exam 2024

September 1, 2024

How to Prepare for NDA 2024 - Tips for NDA Preparation

Candidates wanting to appear for the NDA exam for the first time might be thinking about how to prepare for NDA 2024, where to start the NDA preparation, what NDA books to study, what study material to refer to for the NDA examination, whether to take coaching or not and more. This article will resolve most of the issues regarding the NDA 2024 preparation method and strategy. Read the points below to get answers on how to prepare for NDA 2024.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 1 - Knowledge Of Exam Pattern

Before starting the NDA preparation 2024, candidates should have knowledge of the NDA exam pattern 2024. Check the table below.

NDA 2024 exam pattern

Subjects

Number of questions

Marks

Duration

Mathematics

120

300

2 hrs 30 mins (each paper)

General Ability Test

150

600

Note- There is ⅓ negative marking for every wrong answer.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 2 - Knowledge Of Syllabus

Candidates along with the knowledge of the exam pattern for NDA 2024, should also know the NDA exam syllabus for the written exam. NDA written exam has two subjects - mathematics and general ability test. The questions asked in the NDA exam are from these to subjects. Candidates can check the details of the NDA syllabus 2024 here.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 3 - Focus On Completing The Course

The NDA 2024 syllabus for the written exam is prescribed by the Commission. Candidates should first focus on completing the syllabus of NDA 2024 as prescribed by the UPSC for the written exam. Before moving on to attempt sample NDA 2024 question papers or previous year question papers.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 4 - What Study Material To Refer

Candidates should develop a habit of reading newspapers and books as it will help them to improve their grammar skill set, cover recent events & developments in the world and improve their basic general knowledge. Applicants are also advised not to refer to too many books as it will cause a lot of confusion to aspirants. They are advised to just refer to the standard and best books for NDA 2024 preparation and solve as many sample question papers as possible in the allotted time frame.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 5 - Written Exam

Candidates are advised to practice as many sample and previous year question papers as possible for the NDA written examination. This will improve their speed and accuracy level in the examination. For the SSB applicants are advised to stay physically fit and develop their interpersonal skill sets.

Candidates should attempt the NDA sample papers after covering the NDA 2024 syllabus to get an idea of where they stand in their preparation. This will also help the candidates to know about their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to the NDA exam and areas that need improvement. It will also give them a feel of the actual NDA exam pattern and the type of questions asked in the exam.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 6 - Time Management

Candidates should start their NDA preparation with a clean slate i.e. they should get rid of all the preconceived notions about the NDA and NA examination. Their focus should be on the final goal and how to achieve it. Applicants should start their UPSC NDA preparation well in advance before the actual exam, to cover all the subjects - mathematics and general ability tests.

Time management is key in every exam so candidates need to learn how to improve their efficiency in the allotted time. Different candidates have different ways of time management, so it's up to you to learn how to better utilize your time during the NDA 2024 exam.

NDA 2024 Preparation Tip 7 - Stay Healthy

Applicants need to stay calm, hydrated and focused to reach their final goal in any exam. Every candidate has a different way or strategy for preparing for the NDA exam. Applicants should follow the strategy that best suits them rather than copying others. The mantra for clearing the NDA 2024 exam is to stay focused and determined till the goal is achieved.

More Relevant Links


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the NDA exam conducted online or offline?

The NDA 2024 exam will be conducted in offline mode i.e. pen and paper mode.

2. Is there -ve marking in the NDA written exam?

Yes, there is -ve marking in the written examination of NDA.

3. How many stages are there in the NDA selection process?

NDA exam has three stages in its selection process - written exam, SSB interview and medical exam.

4. What are the posts for which NDA exam is conducted?

The NDA exam is conducted for the recruitment of candidates to Officer level posts in the Indian Defence Services.

5. When is the NDA 1 2024 exam?

The NDA 1 2024 exam is scheduled to be held on April 21, 2024.

6. Can I apply for NDA 2024?

Candidates who fulfil the NDA 2024 eligibility criteria will be able to apply for the exam. 

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Questions related to NDA

Have a question related to NDA ?

Hello Abhay,

if your date of birth is 22/09/2006, you will be 18 years old in september 2025. for NDA 2 2025, candidates must be born between 02 january 2007 and 01 january 2010. so you are not eligible for NDA 2 2025 as you are older than the upper age limit.

Hope this message finds you well,

thank you.

According to the updated age requirements, you are qualified for NDA II 2025 if your birthday is April 2006 (however there is some disagreement among sources).  According to the most recent revisions, applicants born between January 2, 2006, and January 1, 2009 (age 16.5–19.5 years), including April 2006, are eligible.  However, other sites mention January 2, 2007–January 1, 2010, therefore check the formal announcement (anticipated by April–May 2025) for exact dates.

No, you're not eligible for NDA 2 2025 since you were born on 13th December 2006. The age limit for NDA 2 2025 is between 2nd January 2007 and 1st January 2010.

However, you're eligible for NDA 1 2026.


Cracking the NDA (National Defence Academy) exam in the first attempt requires a well-structured preparation strategy, unwavering dedication, and a positive mindset. It's a competitive exam, but with the right approach, success is achievable.

Firstly, understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. The NDA exam consists of two main papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The GAT is further divided into English and General Knowledge. Go through the detailed syllabus for each subject, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and plan your study schedule accordingly. Knowing what to study is the foundation of your preparation.

Next, focus on building a strong foundation in the fundamentals. Ensure your basic concepts in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, Economics, and English grammar are clear. NCERT books for classes 11th and 12th are invaluable resources for this. Consistent and regular study is key; aim for daily study sessions rather than last-minute cramming.

Practice previous years' question papers extensively. This will familiarize you with the exam pattern, the types of questions asked, the difficulty level, and the time constraints. Solving these papers will also help you identify your weak areas so you can focus on improving them. Time management is crucial in the NDA exam, so practice solving papers within the stipulated time limit.

Develop effective time management skills. During your preparation, learn to allocate time wisely to each subject. In the exam hall, stick to your planned schedule and don't spend too much time on a single question. Accuracy and speed are both important. Regular mock tests that simulate the actual exam environment will help you hone these skills.

Stay updated on current affairs and improve your general knowledge. Read newspapers, magazines, and follow reliable online sources to stay informed about national and international events, science and technology, sports, and other relevant topics. A good grasp of current affairs is essential for scoring well in the General Knowledge section.

Finally, maintain a positive attitude and take care of your physical and mental well-being. Believe in your preparation and stay motivated. Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly. A healthy mind and body are crucial for effective learning and performing under pressure. If needed, seek guidance from mentors or join study groups for motivation and support. Consistent effort and a strategic approach will significantly increase your chances of cracking the NDA exam in your first attempt.

Yes, with a DOB of December 20, 2006, you are eligible for NDA 1, 2026 as you’ll be between 16.5 to 19.5 years old in April 2026.

NDA 1, 2026 Exam is in April 2026.

Application starts around December 2025.

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