Are you planning to write the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination, but have little time left for preparation? You’re not alone. You may find that many aspirants do not have much time left due to work, college, or any other engagements. Here is a well-structured approach on how to prepare for CDS even if you have a very busy schedule.
Is it possible to crack the CDS exam in a limited time?
Yes, it is possible to crack the CDS exam when you have limited time on hand if you follow a proper plan. To prepare for CDS, it is advisable not to aim to study all topics but only the important topics and those that are often asked in the CDS previous year question paper.
What is the best study plan for CDS with less time?
Here’s a time-efficient 30-day plan to optimize your efforts:
|
Day Range |
Focus Area |
Strategy |
|---|---|---|
|
Days 1-5 |
English Basics |
Grammar rules, synonyms-antonyms, comprehension |
|
Days 6-10 |
General Knowledge – Static |
History, Polity, Geography (focus on NCERT-level topics) |
|
Days 11-15 |
General Knowledge – Current Affairs |
Past 6 months’ important news, defence updates, and awards |
|
Days 16-20 |
Mathematics – Core Concepts |
Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry basics |
|
Days 21-25 |
Mock Tests & PYQs |
Solve the CDS previous year question paper and time-bound mock tests |
|
Days 26-30 |
Revision & Weak Areas |
Go over tough topics, revise English vocabulary and GK facts |
Read More: How to Analyze CDS Previous Year Questions for Better Scores?
How to prepare for the CDS exam in less than 2 hours a day?
If you have less than 2 hours per day, use the following micro-strategy:
1. Prioritize subjects: In particular, spend more time on the sections you find weak.
2. Use quality sources: It is recommended to use only one good source per topic.
3. Solve PYQs: Try to solve at least 10 questions from the CDS previous year question paper.
4. Revise regularly: Use Sundays for weekly revisions.
What is the smartest way to use CDS books when time is limited?
Since there is limited time, it is unadvisable to attempt to read entire CDS books from the cover to the back. Instead:
• Emphasis on the chapters that yield more scores.
• To find specific parts of a text, one can use an index.
• Skip overly detailed explanations.
• Write down formulas and facts that could be useful during further work.
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Final Tips: How to stay focused with limited time?
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Stick to your plan: Don’t chase multiple sources.
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Be consistent: It shows that as little as 90 minutes of focus per day is enough.
-
Track your progress: A checklist or planner should be simple.
That’s why it requires strategic approaches and no extra time to pass the CDS in the limited time possible. Understand the format of the exam, review certain chapters in the CDS books, and carry out the work by solving the CDS previous year question paper.
