How to Score Good in NDA Exam: A Complete Guide

  • August 28, 2025
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The National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam is one of the most prestigious exams in India, conducted by UPSC twice a year. Every year, lakhs of aspirants apply, but only a few make it to the Academy. To crack NDA, you don’t just need hard work—you need the right strategy, consistency, and discipline.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you score well in the NDA Exam:


1. Understand the NDA Exam Pattern

Before jumping into preparation, know what you are preparing for.

  • Written Exam:
    • Mathematics: 120 questions (300 marks)
    • GAT (General Ability Test): 150 questions (600 marks)
  • SSB Interview: 900 marks

👉 Total = 1800 marks (Written + SSB).
If you aim for NDA, aim to score high in both Maths and GAT, because only then you’ll clear the cutoff and be recommended later.


2. Focus on Mathematics First

  • Maths is the decider—many students fail here.
  • Strengthen your basics from NCERT (Class 9 to 12).
  • Practice previous year question papers.
  • Learn short tricks for trigonometry, algebra, probability, and calculus.
  • Target at least 60–70 correct answers in Maths to be safe.

3. Master GAT (General Ability Test)

The GAT covers English, Science, History, Geography, Current Affairs, and GK.

  • For English: Improve vocabulary, grammar, comprehension, and idioms. Reading newspapers helps.
  • For Science: Revise Class 9–10 Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
  • For History & Geography: NCERT is enough, focus on modern history and Indian geography.
  • For Current Affairs: Read daily news or monthly magazines.

4. Make a Timetable

Discipline is key.

  • Divide your day into Maths + GAT + Revision.
  • Practice 2–3 hours of Maths daily.
  • Give at least 1 hour to English and GK.
  • Weekly mock tests are compulsory to check your progress.

5. Solve Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests

UPSC repeats many questions. By solving old papers, you’ll understand:

  • Important topics.
  • Time management.
  • Your weak areas.

6. Stay Physically & Mentally Fit

Remember, after the written exam comes SSB Interview where your personality, communication, and physical fitness matter.

  • Do daily exercise, running, and meditation.
  • Work on leadership qualities and confidence.

7. Revision is the Key

Don’t keep studying new topics till the end. Last 2 months = only revision + mock tests.


Final Words

Scoring good in the NDA Exam is not about studying 15 hours a day—it’s about smart preparation, consistency, and self-belief. Stay focused, practice daily, and remember your ultimate goal: to serve the nation as an officer.

👉 If you stay disciplined and follow this strategy, you can definitely score well and secure your seat in NDA.

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