🪖How to Prepare for the NDA Exam: A Complete Guide for Aspiring Officers

The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is the gateway to one of India’s most prestigious military academies, where young aspirants are trained to become officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the NDA exam demands dedication, strategy, and smart preparation.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your approach, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing for the NDA exam.

---

📘 Exam Overview

The NDA exam is held twice a year — NDA 1 (April) and NDA 2 (September). It consists of:

1. Written Exam:

• Mathematics: 300 Marks
• General Ability Test (GAT): 600 Marks

2. SSB Interview:

• Personality + Intelligence Test: 900 Marks

---

🧠 Subject-wise Preparation Strategy

🧮 Mathematics (300 Marks)

This section tests your Class 11 & 12-level mathematics. Topics include Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Probability, etc.

Preparation Tips:

• Focus on NCERT Books (Class 11 & 12)
• Practice previous year papers and mock tests
• Focus on speed + accuracy (time-bound practice)

📚 General Ability Test (600 Marks)

Divided into:

• English (200 Marks): Vocabulary, grammar, comprehension
• General Knowledge (400 Marks): Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, Current Affairs

Preparation Tips:

• Read newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express) for current affairs
• Refer to Lucent’s General Knowledge book
• Brush up on basic science concepts (Class 9-12)

---

💬 SSB Interview Preparation

After clearing the written exam, you’ll face a 5-day SSB interview, which includes:

• Psychological Tests
• Group Discussions
• Personal Interview
• GTO Tasks (Group Tasks & Outdoor Activities)

Preparation Tips:

• Practice speaking in English confidently
• Improve general awareness and opinions on social issues
• Join a mock SSB coaching if possible
• Stay physically fit for outdoor tasks

---

📅 Study Plan (6-Month Preparation)

Month 1–2:

• Build basics in Maths & English
• Read NCERTs & current affairs daily

Month 3–4:

• Start timed practice and mock tests
• Focus on GAT subjects: Science, History, Geography

Month 5:

• Revise all key formulas and facts
• Take full-length mock exams

Month 6:

• Final revision + focus on weak areas
• Prepare documentation for SSB

---

💪 Bonus Tips

• ✅ Stay consistent with your routine
• ✅ Solve previous 10 years’ question papers
• ✅ Keep your physical and mental health in check
• ✅ Stay motivated and confident

---

📝 Recommended Books

• Mathematics – R.S. Aggarwal, NDA Pathfinder (Arihant)
• English & GK – Objective General English (SP Bakshi), Lucent GK
• SSB Interview – “Let’s Crack SSB Interview” by SSB Crack

---

🏁 Final Thoughts

Success in the NDA exam isn’t just about studying hard — it’s about preparing smart, staying consistent, and believing in your goal of serving the nation. If you have the passion and discipline, the uniform is waiting for you.