What is the syllabus of the CDS exam?

The CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam syllabus is designed to test a candidate’s English proficiency, general knowledge, mathematical ability, reasoning skills, and awareness of national and international events. The exam is conducted by UPSC for recruitment into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

The syllabus differs slightly depending on the academy.

For Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA), the written exam includes:

• English
• General Knowledge
• Elementary Mathematics

For Officers Training Academy (OTA), the exam includes:
• English
• General Knowledge

1. English Syllabus for CDS

This section checks grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and communication skills.

Important topics:
• Synonyms and antonyms
• Sentence arrangement
• Error spotting
• Fill in the blanks
• Idioms and phrases
• Reading comprehension
• Vocabulary
• Sentence improvement

Preparation Tips:
• Read newspapers and editorials
• Practice grammar exercises
• Improve vocabulary daily

1. General Knowledge Syllabus

This section tests awareness of current affairs and general studies.

Important topics:
• Indian history
• Geography
• Indian polity
• Economics
• General science
• Defence-related current affairs
• Sports and awards
• Important national and international events

Science topics may include:
• Physics basics
• Chemistry basics
• Biology and environment

Preparation Tips:
• Read daily current affairs
• Revise static GK regularly
• Follow defence and government updates

1. Elementary Mathematics Syllabus

This section is mainly based on Class 10-level mathematics.

Important topics:
• Arithmetic
• Percentage
• Ratio and proportion
• Profit and loss
• Time and work
• Time, speed, and distance
• Algebra
• Geometry
• Mensuration
• Trigonometry
• Statistics

Preparation Tips:
• Learn formulas thoroughly
• Practice calculation shortcuts
• Solve mock tests regularly

CDS Exam Pattern

IMA, INA, AFA:
• Three papers
• Objective-type questions

OTA:
• Two papers
• No mathematics section

Important features:
• Negative marking for wrong answers
• Offline written examination

SSB Interview

Candidates who clear the written exam appear for the SSB interview, which tests:
• Leadership skills
• Communication ability
• Confidence
• Personality
• Decision-making capability

Why is CDS important?

CDS provides graduates an opportunity to become officers in:
• Indian Army
• Indian Navy
• Indian Air Force

It is one of the most respected defence examinations in India.

Best Strategy for CDS Preparation

• Build strong basics in maths and English
• Study current affairs daily
• Solve previous year question papers
• Practice time management
• Prepare for physical fitness and SSB interview