The Union Public Service Commission conducts the CDS (Combined Defence Services) Exam once in every 6 months to recruit qualified individuals for officer positions in the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy and Indian Air Force Academy.
The syllabus of CDS is extensive, and one needs to be well prepared for the written exam and interview to increase their chances of selection in the first attempt. Whether 3 months is enough for CDS Preparation or not depends on a number of factors and on a case-to-case basis. For some candidates, 3 months may be enough if their basics are clear, they are sincere and stick to a routine. For others, it might seem like an uphill battle if their conceptual knowledge is shaky.
Recommended Links:
CDS Previous Year Question Papers | For 2024 Exams
How to start CDS Preparation?
1- Know the Exam Pattern & Syllabus- The first and foremost step for a person aiming for CDS is to know the syllabus and the exam pattern. There are 3 sections in it: English, General Knowledge and elementary mathematics. The three papers are of 100 marks and 2 hours each. The candidates have to attempt 120 questions for 100 marks. Understand the syllabus and the topics covered. Make a list of known and unknown topics.
2- Emphasis on Fundamentals - Focusing on basics is the key to scoring good marks. It is not important to study a topic from multiple resources rather building strong conceptual knowledge. In the exams, tricky questions are asked based on the basic concepts.
Must Read: CAN SOMEONE CRACK THE CDS EXAM IN THE FIRST ATTEMPT?
3- Develop A Structure Plan - It's very important to develop a structure and plan how you will approach the topics. Dedicate 8-10 hours on a daily basis in order to cover the syllabus and leave time for revision. Keep two different subjects to study like English, Maths and General Awareness. It's important to practice mathematics daily and solve as many sums as possible.
4- Identify your Strengths & Weaknesses - once you start building your foundation, you will realize topics which are your strengths and weaknesses. Focus on strengths and build on them instead of thinking of mastering weaknesses.
Practice Comprehensively with Oswaal360 Online Courses for CDS 2024 Exams
Practice Now with Free Oswaal360 Online Mock Test for CDS 2024 Exams
5- Solving Mock Tests & Previous Year Question Papers - From Day 1 of the preparation, start solving Previous Year Question Papers and Oswaal Books Mock Test Papers. This will acquaint you with the real exam and the types of questions asked. It will reduce the exam pressure and build confidence.
6- Time Management - Preparing for an exam is a two-fold process. One is knowing the subject matter, and the second is the strategy and time management. CDS is a very competitive exam, and lakhs of students each year appear to fill a few positions. It's important to have the right strategy and hone your time management skills.
We recommend you follow these steps and work hard for the exam.
All the Best!
