CDS or the Combined Defence Services exam is conducted by the UPSC (Union public services commission) to induct candidates into some of the finest military academies in the country like the IMA at Dehradun. A career in the armed forces is like no other and definitely has a lure to it, like no other. The CDS is an exam for post graduates who are under the age of 25 and are not married. Its essential you start preparing for the exam as early as possible, preferably during your College academics as the limited number of seats make it a difficult one to crack. If you are looking to give the exam to become an officer in the Indian army which is widely regarded as one of the best in the world, read our guide that will give you tips for exam preparation:

Start Early: As we have already told you before that starting early is essential for cracking the CDS. Most candidates start preparing for it during their college academics and you should ensure that you have maximum time in hand. If you are enrolled in an engineering course you would have an upper hand at the mathematics section of the written exam.

Manage Time: Time management is essential to crack the CDS as it being an exam for post graduates you might have to juggle between college academics or a professional career. Also during the exam, efficient time management will help you sail through the different sections of the paper.

Exemptions: Another thing to keep in mind while preparing for the CDS exam is that for entry into the Officers training academy at Chennai and Gaya the mathematics paper is waived off for candidates, so if you are aiming particularly for these academies and not the Air Force or Naval academy or even the IMA, then you should prepare accordingly.

Previous year papers: If you are confused about CDS exam Syllabus, then past year papers are the best guidelines to refer to as to the kind of questions you can expect.

Mock tests: Mock tests are essential for you, which will help you assess your current standing and how much you need to work on the individual subjects namely English, Mathematics and General knowledge. Mock tests will also help you with your overall speed.

Enroll in a class: If you feel that self preparation won’t just cut it then you must enroll in professional coaching to prepare for the exam. There is no dearth of institutes which claim to be the best CDS coaching in Mumbai, but make a wise decision based on past results and feedback from existing students.

Motivated: When it comes to competitive exams, keeping yourself motivated is often the key. Competitive exams require effort throughout the year or maybe many years and it’s important to pick yourself up in case of setbacks and temporary distractions. Keep yourself motivated at all times, and a good way to do that is surround yourself with like minded aspirants.

We have given you some tips from experts about preparing for the CDS exam. Centre for defense careers has years of experience imparting quality CDS exam coaching in Mumbai and we would love to hear from you in case you have any further questions regarding the exam. All the best!