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UPSC NDA exam is one of the toughest competitive exam conducted to recruit capable individuals into the National Defence Academy and Indian Naval Academy. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts this national level exam twice every year. The aspiring candidates must have cleared 10+2 exams to be eligible for the NDA exam. This is a written offline examination conducted in two parts – mathematics paper and GAT (General Ability Test ). Once the written exams are done, the qualifying candidates will be invited for an interview with the SSB (Service Selection Board). The written test and the interview each will be of 900 marks .
NDA Preparation in One Month
Preparing for the NDA exam in a month is no easy feat. Even though the time is less, you can crack the exam by going all out in the next 30 days. One needs to have a clear preparation strategy and a planned approach. The primary aim should be to cover the main topics of both the papers. Prepare a study plan and adhere to it.
Study Plan for NDA 2024
It is imperative to have a clear cut plan if you want to complete your preparation in such a short span of time. Have a clear understanding of the exam pattern and syllabus.
Get the complete syllabus and exam pattern for the NDA exam
Subject Wise Preparation Plan
Preparation Plan For Mathematics
The first paper of NDA exam is mathematics. It is a 300 mark paper of 120 questions. The duration of this paper will be two and half hours. Concentrate more on the maths paper because if you don’t pass in this, your GAT paper will not even be considered. The wise way to approach it would be by prioritizing the topics based on their weightage. The highest weightage is carried by the sections of algebra followed by coordinate geometry and calculus.
- Get hold of a good book like ”Mathematics for NDA and NA book by RS Agarwal”. It is better to refer to this book or any other question banks rather than concentrating on the textbook.
- Start with topics that are less time consuming. For instance, start with algebra, coordinate geometry and trigonometry and later move to probability and calculus.
- Make a note of all the formulas and stick it in a place where you can see it everyday. Memorize these formulas and revise it regularly.
- Try to solve as many numerical questions of each type as possible.
- Speed is the key. Regular practice helps in improving the speed.
- Practice previous years’ question papers.
Preparation Plan For GAT
The second paper of the NDA exam is GAT( General Ability Test) which consists of topics from English, current affairs, physics, chemistry, general science, geography and history. It is a 600 mark paper of 150 questions. This paper too will be of two and half hours.
English:
- Focus on understanding the basics of English grammar. One of the most recommended books for this is Wren and Martin English Grammar book. Be sure to practice rules-exception based questions.
- Check the previous years’ question papers to get an idea of often repeated questions and attempt as many papers as possible.
- Work on your vocabulary by reading novels or magazines as this will help in solving questions based on synonyms and antonyms, ordering of sentences and finding errors in sentences. Make sure that you look into the dictionary for the meanings if you come across new words.
- Jot down new words as you come across it and start using it in your conversation. This will be also be helpful in the interview stage.
In the science section, the maximum weightage is given to the Physics topics. There are lesser numericals and more conceptual based questions in this section.
The social studies section will cover topics from History and Geography. The NCERT textbooks are the best source of learning for these subjects but you need not spend a lot of time on these.
Current Affairs is an important part of the test as it makes up about 30 – 40 percent of the GAT section. Read newspapers, journals and magazines to stay informed about events of national and international importance in the field of arts, sports, literature, politics etc.
Since you have only 30 days, do not waste time by trying to learn from the textbook. Rather get hold of a good question bank and previous years’ question papers and practice as much as possible.
Make it a point to read about important military exercises, defense technology as these are frequently asked in the NDA exam. You should also be aware of recent deals and MOUs of Indian Army, Navy and Airforce.
Since there is negative marking, first attempt questions that you are absolutely sure about.
Best Timetable For NDA Preparation
A well constructed timetable will help you prioritize topics that are important and thus lessen your burden.
- Make an hour wise timetable and follow it to the t.
- See that you allot more time for Maths followed by English.
- Divide your hours diligently and ensure that you take frequent breaks.
- Dedicate more time to important and difficult topics.
- Assess your strength and weakness and work on it accordingly.
- Keep yourself away from distractions. You have got only a month and you need to utilize it efficiently.
- Eat healthy and get adequate sleep.
Since you may not be able to cover the entire portion, make sure you are thorough with the concepts you have worked on. It is better to avoid learning new topics in the last moment as it can create confusion and cause stress. One can rather utilize this time for revision or reading any material to improve vocabulary. NDA mock tests are very helpful in time management and improving one’s speed. It also helps in assessing your preparation and analyze your weak and strong points. Push yourself but see that you don’t over strain. Save yourself from exhaustion by keeping your body and mind healthy. cracking NDA with a month’s preparation is a tough task but not an unachievable one.
