CDS Last Minute Preparation Tips 2025; Cracking the Codes for CDS 1

CDS Last Minute Preparation Tips 2025

The CDS 2025 exam (written) for IMA, INA, and AFA comprises three sections, English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. While the exam for admission to OTA comprises two sections, English and General Knowledge. According to the CDS exam pattern, the Mathematics paper will have 100 questions with two hours allocated for the exam. The English paper will have 120 questions, with a time limit of two hours. The General Knowledge will have a total of 120 questions, with a time limit of two hours. The CDS syllabus is vast, and requires months of preparation and guidance. Here is how you can prepare to add the finishing touches days before the exam.

CDS Syllabus and Exam Pattern 

The candidates preparing for the upcoming CDS 1 exam must know the CDS exam pattern before appearing in the exam. The exam format will aid candidates in fully comprehending the CDS exam. The candidate must read the complete CDS syllabus in addition to the exam pattern, and with one month left, candidates should choose topics they are familiar with.

Don’t Touch New Topics

During the final phase of exam preparation, do not study any new topic, because you may not be able to grasp the concept properly. This leaves the risk of creating unnecessary confusion. It is better to revise the topics you have already studied.

Also Read: UPSC CDS Exam Centres

Formulate Section-Wise Strategies

For Mathematics, note down tricks, formulas, and strategies. This will help you to refresh mathematical concepts in a short span. You can still brush up on your vocabulary and read through synonyms, antonyms, and idioms to make sure you don’t leave out anything important in the English section. Go through the current affairs. You need to revise extensively important events, dates, venues, names, and recent activities.

Revision

It is important to revisit the topics that you have covered. Do not revise books and chapters rather, make short and simple notes. This way you can simply glance through them to refresh the topics in your mind.

Practice Question Papers

Solving previous years’ CDS question papers is a good idea, as it braces you for the exam. You can improve your accuracy and question-solving ability.

Check Required Stationaries

Make sure that you have kept the CDS admit card and required seditionaries such as pen and pencil at a convenient place.

Sleep Properly

Rejuvenate your strength. Sleep properly and on time, and be refreshed both physically and mentally.

Be Positive and Confident

Approach the exam with a positive attitude. Be confident in your preparation and give it your best.

CDS Exam Day Guidelines 2025

Candidates can check below a few CDS exam day guidelines:

• Candidates need to carry Aadhaar Card/Voter Card/PAN Card/Passport/Driving License/Any other photo ID card issued by the state/central government
• It must be noted that entry into the exam hall will close 10 minutes before the scheduled commencement of the exam. No candidate will be allowed entry into the exam venue after the closure of the entry gate
• Candidates should bring a black ball-point pen to the examination hall
• Wearing a mask is mandatory for all candidates
• Candidates without a mask will not be allowed to enter the exam venue
• Candidates are allowed to bring their own hand sanitizer in transparent
• Candidates must follow COVID-19 norms of social distancing and personal hygiene

Read More: CDS 1 2025 Exam Schedule