UPSC CDS Exam 2026: Syllabus, Best Books, Coaching & Complete Preparation Strategy

UPSC CDS Exam 2026: Syllabus, Best Books, Coaching & Complete Preparation Strategy

AcademyCheck will guide defence aspirants with honest insights and structured information to help them prepare effectively for the UPSC CDS Exam 2026. The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is among the most prestigious defence exams in India. It provides a golden opportunity for aspirants to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force as commissioned officers.

In this detailed guide, AcademyCheck covers everything a CDS aspirant needs to know—exam syllabus, subject-wise preparation strategy, best books for CDS, online and offline coaching options, and practical exam-day tips. Our aim is to help students make informed decisions and build a preparation plan that suits their strengths, time availability, and career goals.

What is UPSC CDS Exam?

The CDS exam is conducted twice a year (CDS I & CDS II) by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Successful candidates are admitted to:

• Indian Military Academy (IMA)
• Indian Naval Academy (INA)
• Air Force Academy (AFA)
• Officers Training Academy (OTA)

UPSC CDS Exam Pattern

Written Examination

Academy Subjects

IMA, INA, AFA English, General Knowledge, Mathematics

OTA English, General Knowledge

• Each paper: 2 hours
• Total Marks:
• IMA/INA/AFA: 300
• OTA: 200
• Negative marking: 1/3rd marks deducted

UPSC CDS Syllabus (Detailed)

1️⃣ English

• Reading Comprehension
• Vocabulary & Synonyms
• Antonyms
• Sentence Improvement
• Spotting Errors
• Fill in the Blanks
• Ordering of Sentences

Focus: Grammar + comprehension accuracy

2️⃣ General Knowledge

• Indian History & Freedom Movement
• Geography (India & World)
• Indian Polity & Constitution
• Economy & Budget
• Defence & National Security
• Current Affairs (last 8–10 months)
• Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology – basic level)

3️⃣ Mathematics (10+2 Level)

• Arithmetic
• Algebra
• Trigonometry
• Geometry
• Mensuration
• Statistics

Note: Maths is required only for IMA, INA & AFA.

Best Books for CDS Preparation

English

• Objective General English – S.P. Bakshi
• Word Power Made Easy – Norman Lewis

General Knowledge

• Lucent’s General Knowledge
• Manorama Year Book
• NCERT (Class 6–10)
• Daily Newspaper (The Hindu / Indian Express)

Mathematics

• Pathfinder for CDS – Arihant
• NCERT Maths (Class 9–12)
• RS Aggarwal (Selective Practice)

Best Coaching for CDS Preparation (India)

Offline Coaching

• Sikar (Rajasthan) – Known for defence exam coaching
• Delhi (Mukherjee Nagar / Karol Bagh)
• Dehradun – Defence-focused environment

👉 Coaching helps, but self-study + discipline matters most.

Best Strategy to Crack UPSC CDS Exam

Step-by-Step Preparation Plan

1. Understand syllabus & exam pattern clearly
2. Build strong basics from NCERT
3. Practice previous year question papers
4. Attempt mock tests weekly
5. Improve speed & accuracy
6. Revise current affairs daily
7. Focus on weak areas

Time Allocation (Ideal)

• English: 30–35%
• GK: 35–40%
• Maths: 25–30%

What to Do During CDS Examination ✅

• Read questions carefully
• Attempt strong sections first
• Keep track of time
• Use elimination technique in MCQs
• Attempt only sure-shot questions
• Stay calm and confident

What NOT to Do During CDS Examination ❌

• Do not attempt blind guesses
• Avoid spending too much time on one question
• Do not panic if paper feels tough
• Avoid over-attempting due to negative marking
• Do not leave OMR mistakes

After Written Exam: SSB Interview

Candidates who clear the written exam are called for SSB Interview, which includes:

• Psychological Tests
• Group Testing Officer (GTO) Tasks
• Personal Interview
• Medical Examination

👉 Prepare personality, communication skills, and leadership qualities.

Cracking the UPSC CDS exam requires smart strategy, consistency, and dedication. With the right syllabus coverage, best books, proper guidance, and disciplined preparation, success is achievable.

“CDS is not just an exam, it’s a gateway to serve the nation with honour.”

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