CDS Syllabus 2024, Complete Subject Wise UPSC CDS Syllabus PDF

UPSC CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam syllabus is comprehensive, covering subjects like English, General Knowledge, Mathematics, and more. Check CDS 2024 Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2024 in detail

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CDS Syllabus 2023

CDS Syllabus: Ensure you review the comprehensive subject-wise CDS Syllabus for English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics. Access the complete CDS exam syllabus PDF for download through this article. Combined Defense Services Examination is one of the highly competitive examinations in India and hence candidates show high dedication towards the preparation and a strong will to get selected in every round.

It is important to understand that the CDS Examination consists of two stages: the written examination and the SSB Interview round. To be selected, candidates must successfully pass both stages. Only those candidates who clear the objective-based written examination will be eligible to proceed to the interview round.

CDS Syllabus 2024 Overview

CDS Syllabus 2024: The UPSC conducts the CDS exam biannually to select candidates for various Indian Defense Services, including the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers’ Training Academy. The UPSC releases the CDS Syllabus along with the CDS 1 2024 Notification PDF on its official website on Dec 20, 2024.

The CDS Syllabus 2024 includes English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics for admission to the Indian Naval Academy, Indian Military Academy, and Air Force Academy. However, the syllabus for admission to the Officers’ Training Academy focuses solely on English and General Knowledge subjects. For a comprehensive understanding of the specific topics covered in each subject, please refer to this article.

CDS Syllabus 2024 PDF

CDS Syllabus 2024 PDF: Having a detailed understanding of the CDS Exam syllabus is crucial for candidates as it enables them to develop a clear vision and effective action plan for their exam preparation. It is important to note that only those who pass the written test are eligible for the SSB Interview stage.

This article aims to assist applicants in having a thorough understanding of the CDS Curriculum, bringing them closer to achieving their goals. The CDS Syllabus in PDF format is available for download, covering subjects such as General Knowledge, English, and Mathematics.

Download CDS Syllabus  PDF ( Inactive)

CDS Exam 2024 Overview

Candidates aspiring to join the Defense Forces through the CDS examination are likely seeking information about the exam pattern, marking schemes, number of questions, and other relevant details. While the CDS syllabus has undergone minor changes, it is important to be familiar with the exam pattern and syllabus. This article presents detailed information on the CDS Exam Pattern 2024 and a detailed CDS Syllabus to assist candidates in their preparation.

Name of the Exam Combined Defence Forces (CDS)
Conducting Body Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Exam Conducted in A Year Twice a Year
Mode of Examination Offline
Type of Questions Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Medium Hindi or English
Number of Questions
  • IMA/INA/AFA – 300
  • OTA – 200
Time Duration 2 hours for each paper
Negative Marking Yes (1/3rd deducted for every wrong answer)

Also, Check CDS Eligibility Criteria

CDS Syllabus

In order to achieve a good score in CDS 1 2024 examination, it is essential for aspirants to have a thorough understanding of the CDS Syllabus. The CDS 1 2024 Exam serves as a direct gateway for individuals aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. Candidates can check the overview of the CDS Exam Syllabus, providing detailed information for candidates preparing for the exam.

CDS Syllabus for English

CDS Syllabus English: In order to enhance their performance in english section, candidates are advised to cultivate a habit of daily newspaper reading. They should identify challenging words and seek their meanings, thereby improving both their vocabulary and comprehension of passages. This section aims to evaluate candidates’ proficiency in English and their capacity to employ language effectively and professionally.

CDS English Syllabus 2024
  • Reading Comprehension Questions.
  • Spotting the Error Questions.
  • Fill in the blank questions.
  • Synonyms & Antonyms Questions.
  • Idioms and Phrases Questions.
  • Sentence Arrangement or Jumbled Questions.
  • Ordering of words in Sentence Questions.
  • Sentence Improvement or Sentence Correction Questions

CDS Syllabus for Mathematics

CDS Syllabus Mathematics: The CDS Elementary Mathematics syllabus consists of topics such as arithmetic, trigonometry, geometry, measurements, statistics, and more. To enhance preparation and achieve favorable outcomes in this paper, consistent practice and dedicated efforts are necessary. It is important for applicants to maintain both accuracy and speed in order to answer the questions within the allotted time frame. For a comprehensive understanding of the syllabus, referring to the provided table for the mathematics syllabus of the CDS 1 2024 exam is recommended.

CDS Maths Syllabus
Arithmetic Number System

  • Natural numbers, Integers, Rational and Real numbers.
  • Fundamental operations, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, Square roots, Decimal fractions.
  • Unitary method, time and work, time and distance, percentages.
  • Applications of profit and loss, simple and compound interest, ratio and proportion, variation.

Elementary Number Theory

  • Division algorithm.
  • Prime and composite numbers.
  • Tests of divisibility by 2, 3, 4, 5, 9 and 11.
  • Multiples and factors.
  • Factorisation Theorem.
  • H.C.F. and L.C.M.
  • Euclidean algorithm.
  • Logarithms to base 10, use of logarithmic tables, laws of logarithms.
Algebra
  • Basic operations and Simple factors,
  • Remainder Theorem.
  • H.C.F. and L.C.M.
  • Theory of polynomials, relation between its roots and coefficients (Only real roots to be considered), solutions of quadratic equations.
  • Simultaneous linear equations in two unknowns — analytical & graphical solutions.
  • Simultaneous linear inequalities in two variables & their solutions.
  • Practical issues with solutions that result in two simultaneous linear equations, inequalities in two variables, or quadratic equations in one variable.
  • Set notation and set language.
  • Rational expressions and conditional identities.
  • Laws of indices.
Trigonometry
  • Sine x, cosine x, Tan x when 0° < x < 90° , Values of sin x, cos x & tan x, for x = 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° & 90°.
  • Simple trigonometric identities.
  • Use of trigonometric tables.
  • Simple cases of heights and distances.
Geometry Plane and plane figures, Lines and angles, Theorems on:

  • Properties of angles at a point
  • Parallel lines
  • Sides and angles of a triangle
  • Congruence of triangles
  • Similar triangles
  • Concurrence of medians and altitudes
  • Properties of sides, angles and diagonals of a rectangle, parallelogram and square
  • Circles and their properties including tangents and normals
  • Loci
Mensuration
  • Areas of parallelograms, squares, rectangles, triangles and circles.
  • Areas of figures can be split up into these figures (Field Book), lateral surface and volume of right circular cones and cylinders, Surface area and volume of cuboids, and surface area and volume of spheres.
Statistics
  • Collection and tabulation of statistical data.
  • Graphical representation of frequency polygons, bar charts, histograms, pie charts etc.
  • Measures of central tendency.

Also, Check CDS Admit Card 2024

CDS Syllabus for General Knowledge

CDS Syllabus General Knowledge: General knowledge consists of current affairs and having a broad understanding of everyday observations and experiences, including a scientific aspect, which is expected from an educated individual who hasn’t specialized in any scientific field. Furthermore, the examination will include questions related to geography and Indian history, which any competent candidate should be able to answer without requiring additional study.

CDS General Knowledge Syllabus
  • Indian History
  • Political Science
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • Environment
  • General Science – Physics, Chemistry, Biology
  • Current Affairs– National & International Awards, Summits, Sports, Conference; Books & Authors etc.
  • Defence Related Questions – Army, Navy, Air Force

CDS Syllabus for OTA

For the OTA Examination, the CDS Syllabus specifically consists of two subjects: General Knowledge and English. The topics and subtopics within these subjects are the same as those included in the syllabus for the INA, IMA, and AFA. The only difference is that the syllabus for OTA excludes mathematics.

CDS Syllabus 2024 Related Links
CDS Notification 2024 CDS Eligibility
CDS Syllabus CDS Admit Card
CDS Exam Date 2024 CDS Previous Year Papers
CDS Selection Process CDS Cut Off

CDS Exam Pattern 2024

The CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam pattern is the pathway for entry into Military institutions like the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers’ Training Academy. Split into two courses, the selection process is conducted through a pen-and-paper offline format. Candidates face assessments in subjects like English, General Knowledge, and Mathematics, each having a two-hour duration and carrying 100 marks, catering to different academy entries. This pattern tests candidates on core subjects and serves as an important step towards shaping future officers for the Indian Armed Forces.

The SSB Test/Interview, spanning over five days and carrying 300 marks, is a crucial part of the selection process for all the academies. This pattern tests candidates on their linguistic, general awareness, and mathematical proficiencies while emphasizing their overall personality traits and suitability for the armed forces, ensuring a detailed evaluation of their capabilities and potential as future officers in the Indian Armed Forces.

A) For Admission to Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and Air Force Academy – 

Subject Duration Maximum Marks
English 2 Hours 100
General Knowledge 2 Hours 100
Mathematics 2 Hours 100
SSB Test/Interview 5 Days 300

 

B) For Admission to the Officers’ Training Academy – 

Subject Duration Maximum Marks
English 2 Hours 100
General Knowledge 2 Hours 100
SSB Test/Interview 5 Days 300

Important Instructions for CDS Exam 2024

let us look at some of the most important Instructions for CDS Exam 2024 :-

  • Use only a black ballpoint pen for writing.
  • Provide your center and subject on the answer sheet, followed by the CDS 2024 test booklet series (in brackets), subject code, and exam roll number in the designated spaces at the top.
  • Encode your CDS 2024 booklet series (A, B, C, or D, as applicable), subject code, and roll number within the provided circles on the answer sheet.
  • If the CDS booklet series is not indicated on the test booklet or the answer sheet lacks numbering, promptly inform the invigilator and request a replacement for the test booklet/answer sheet.
  • Any omissions, errors, or discrepancies in encoding/filling details on the CDS 2024 OMR answer sheet, especially concerning the Roll Number and Test Booklet Series Code, may lead to the rejection of the answer sheet.
  • Upon the commencement of CDS 2024, inspect the supplied test booklet to ensure it does not have any unprinted, torn, or missing pages or items. If issues are identified, request a replacement with a complete test booklet of the same series and subject.
  • Refrain from writing your name or any information other than the specific items requested on the CDS answer sheet/test booklet/sheet for rough work.
  • Avoid folding, damaging, or making extraneous markings on the CDS Answer Sheet. Additionally, do not write anything on the reverse side of the answer sheet.

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CDS Syllabus FAQs

Q1. What are the subjects for CDS Examination?

Ans. For IMA, INA and AFA CDS Exam consists subjects which are General Knowledge, Mathematics, and English. For OTA, the subjects are just General Knowledge and English.

Q2. Who can apply for the CDS Exam 2024?

Ans. Candidates that are graduated from any recognized university can apply for CDS Examination, the conditions other than graduation include the age limit for that particular position. The course specifications are as follows:

For Indian Military Academy - Degree of a recognized university or equivalent is required.
For Air Force Academy - Degree of a recognized University with Physics & Mathematics at 10+2 or Bachelor of Engg. is required.
For Officer Training Academy - Degree of a recognized university or equivalent is required.
ForNaval Academy - Bachelor of Engineering is required.

Q3. What is the age limit to apply for the CDS Examination?

Ans. For CDS Examination i.e., 19 to 24 years for the Indian Military Academy (IMA) and Indian Naval Academy (INA) application, 20 to 24 years for the Indian Air Force Academy (AFA) application, and 19 to 25 years for Officers Training Academy (OTA).

Q4. How many attempts are allowed for CDS?

Ans. There is no number of maximum attempts that are specified by UPSC, CDS.

Q5. What level of mathematics questions are asked in the CDS exam?

Ans. The mathematics questions asked for CDS Examination are elementary level i.e., up to class 10th standard questions.

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