How to Crack CDS in First Attempt, Preparation Tips
Know How To Crack CDS in First Attempt with the preparation strategies useful to cover the syllabus topics for CDS 1 2026 Exam scheduled for 12th April 2026. Candidates should regularly practice questions for exam.
Nigam Sharma29 Dec, 2025
Share
How to Crack CDS in First Attempt: The CDS (Combined Defence Services) Examination CDS 1 2026 is scheduled to take place on 12th April 2026. The Union Public Service Commission conducts the CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam twice a year to recruit qualified individuals for officer positions in the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Indian Air Force Academy. The CDS 1 2026 notification has been released on 10th December 2025. Aspirants should start with the preparation and practice questions covered in the English, GK, and Maths sections.
CDS 1 2026 Exam Highlights
To succeed in the CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam, candidates must be well-prepared as the syllabus is extensive. Selection is based on performance in the written exam and interview, and thorough preparation increases the chances of making it to the final selection rounds. Effective time management strategies and study hacks are vital for efficient CDS Exam Preparation.|
CDS 1 2026 Exam Highlights |
|
|
Name of Conducting Authority |
Union Public Service Commission |
|
Exam Name |
Combined Defence Services (CDS) |
|
CDS 1 2026 Exam Date |
12th April 2026 |
|
Questions Format |
Multiple Choice Questions |
|
Total Questions |
300 Questions |
|
Paper Mode |
Offline |
|
Marks |
300 Marks |
|
Subjects |
English General Knowledge Maths |
|
Time |
2 Hours for each paper |
|
Marking Scheme |
1 Mark Correct Answer 1/3 Wrong Answer Negative Marking |
|
Official Website Link |
www.upsc.gov.in |
How to Prepare for UPSC CDS Exam 2026
UPSC CDS is renowned as one of the most competitive examinations in this field, requiring a well-defined preparation strategy. To clear this exam, consider the following tips that can help you secure a position in the UPSC CDS Examination.- Examination Marking: The total marks allocated for INA, IMA, and AFA are 300, while for OTA, it is 200.
- Exam Duration: The total time allowed to complete the examination is 6 hours, with 2 hours allotted for each section in the case of INA, IMA, and AFA. For OTA, the total time provided is 4 hours.
- Mathematics Difficulty: In the written exam, the difficulty level of mathematics questions is set at the class 10 level. However, for other subjects, the difficulty is slightly higher and is set at the graduation level.
How to Prepare for the CDS SSB Interview
Candidates are selected for the SSB (Services Selection Board) Interview based on their performance in the written exam. The SSB Interview consists of two stages. At the SSB Interview centers, candidates undergo an evaluation of their intelligence and personality. Stage I of the SSB Interview includes tests such as the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) and the Picture Perception Description Test (PP&DT). Stage II encompasses the Conference, Interview, Group Testing Officer Tasks, and Psychology Tests. The entire process typically spans four days. There is no singular approach to preparing for the SSB Interview. It is advisable to engage in discussions and have a clear understanding of the subjects. Having knowledge of current affairs and subjects related to the Combined Defence Services can also prove beneficial in clearing the CDS Exam SSB Interview.Books for CDS Exam Preparation
How to Prepare for CDS Physical and Medical Examinations
In the selection process, candidates' height and weight are measured using a standardised scale. Before facing the medical board, candidates undergo a comprehensive body checkup to ensure they are in good health and free from any illnesses or diseases. Candidates need to engage in regular training and exercise routines to maintain physical fitness and stay in shape.How to Prepare for CDS Personal Interview
During the personal interview, candidates must exude confidence and maintain a calm demeanour. Improving communication skills is essential, as candidates should have the ability to effectively express their ideas to the interview panel. It is also important for candidates to exhibit behaviour and language that aligns with that of an officer.How to Start CDS 2026 Preparation?
For students preparing for the CDS 2026 exam, it is important to have a clear understanding of how to initiate their exam preparation. Here are some tips to aid in the preparation for the CDS 2026 exam:1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern
To succeed in the CDS exam, it is essential to comprehend the exam syllabus and pattern. This will provide an overview of the topics to be covered. Make a list of comfortable and unfamiliar topics according to the CDS Syllabus. Focus on strengthening areas of weakness to avoid confusion.| Subjects/ Sections | Total Duration | No. of Questions | Max. Marks |
| English | 2 hours | 120 | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 2 hours | 120 | 100 |
| Elementary Mathematics | 2 hours | 100 | 100 |
2. Practice Mock Exams and Previous Year Papers
Engage in solving CDS Previous Years' Question papers and mock exams. This practice will familiarize you with the question format, distribution, difficulty level, and grading system of the exam.3. Emphasize Clear Fundamentals
Rather than memorizing formulas, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of fundamental concepts. Proficiency in concepts helps in comprehending and answering questions, as simple questions are often presented in challenging formats.4. Prioritize Important Topics
Assign higher priority to subjects that carry more marks and are relatively easier to score well on during your preparation.5. Start with Easier Questions
Review each question and identify those that are easier to answer and require less time to earn marks. Avoid attempting questions you are uncertain about, as negative marking is also involved.6. Establish a Well-Structured Schedule
Maintain a consistent study schedule to cover the entire syllabus. Allocate six to eight hours daily for preparation, with dedicated time for weekly revisions.Preparation Tips to Crack the CDS Exam on the First Attempt
Having access to useful tips can greatly benefit candidates in their exam preparation. It is highly recommended for applicants to read reputable English newspapers and magazines, such as The Hindu, Times of India, The Caravan, EPW, etc. Key tips to consider for CDS Exam preparation include:- Enhance English Skills: Practice essential English language skills, such as reading and grammar, to improve overall preparation.
- Time Management: Efficiently manage time during the exam. Practice completing sample exams within the designated time limit during practice sessions.
- Mock Tests: Attempt numerous mock tests to gain a better understanding of the exam environment and enhance familiarity with the exam format.
- Regular Mathematics Practice: Practice mathematics regularly to stay acquainted with basic formulas and problem types within the syllabus.
- Develop a Study Plan: Create a well-structured study plan before commencing preparation. Maintaining a daily schedule aids in effective preparation.
- Exam Strategy: Devise an exam strategy before the actual test to perform better and optimize your performance during the exam.
How to crack CDS in first attempt FAQs
Q1. When is the CDS (Combined Defence Services) Exam 2026 scheduled to take place?
Ans. CDS 1 2026 Exam will be held on 12th April 2026.
Q2. How often does the Union Public Service Commission conduct the CDS exam?
Ans. The UPSC conducts the CDS exam twice a year.
Q3. What are the key officer positions for which the CDS exam recruits candidates?
Ans. The CDS exam recruits candidates for officer positions in the Indian Military Academy, Officers Training Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Indian Air Force Academy.
Q4. What is the difficulty level of mathematics questions in the CDS written exam?
Ans. Mathematics questions are set at the class 10 level, while other subjects have a slightly higher difficulty set at the graduation level.
Q5. How to crack CDS in first attempt?
Ans. Candidates are advised to go through this article to know the strategy to crack CDS in first attempt
Free Learning Resources
PW Books
Notes (Class 10-12)
PW Study Materials
Notes (Class 6-9)
Ncert Solutions
Govt Exams
Class 6th to 12th Online Courses
Govt Job Exams Courses
UPSC Coaching
Defence Exam Coaching
Gate Exam Coaching
Other Exams
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others
Copyright © 2026 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.