NDA Exams Preparation in 3 Months: Study Tips and Strategies

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Author at PW

March 22, 2025

NDA Exam Preparation in 3 Months: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the NDA (National Defence Academy) exam in India. It is a prominent examination that serves as an entry point for young people interested in joining the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

The NDA exam is administered in two stages. In the first level, a written exam is administered. The written test consists of two papers: Mathematics and General Ability Test (GAT). The Mathematics paper revolves around intermediate-level math problems. The GAT paper includes English, General Knowledge, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, and Current Affairs questions. The NDA exam is held twice a year, and NDA-2 2024 will take place on September 1, 2024.

To help aspirants in NDA exam preparation in 3 months, we have provided below a few strategies and tips. Candidates are advised to read all tips and strategies to complete NDA exam preparation in 3 months.

Check Out: NDA/Defence Books

How to Do NDA Exam Preparation in 3 Months?

With only three months remaining for the NDA 2 exam, students often find it difficult to complete the syllabus in such a short period. This exam is highly competitive, and passing it without proper preparation is impossible. With only three months until the exam, candidates must work hard and make the most of their limited time. Making and sticking to a study plan is important at this time. Also, candidates must solve past years' question papers and mock examinations to become acquainted with the actual test and identify their strong and weak points. Keep reading for the complete tips and strategies about NDA exam preparation in 3 months.

Tips and Strategies for NDA Exam Preparation in 3 Months

To prepare successfully for the written exam, candidates should create a suitable plan for all topics. To get good exam results, students should apply the proper strategies and use the correct study material. We have provided below a few tips and strategies for NDA exam preparation in 3 months.

Understand the Exam Pattern

The first step toward qualifying for the NDA exam is to understand its pattern. Which area is asking the majority of the questions should be known. Also, students should be aware of negative markings on the NDA exam.

The NDA Written Exam comprises two key components: Mathematics and the General Aptitude Test (GAT). The Mathematics section consists of 120 questions with a total weightage of 300 marks, while the GAT section consists of 150 questions carrying a total weightage of 600 marks.

Candidates are allotted 2.5 hours or 150 minutes each for both the Mathematics and GAT sections. After successful completion of the written exam, candidates proceed to the SSB Interview phase, where their overall performance across both sections is further evaluated, contributing to a total score of 900 marks.

Know the NDA Syllabus

You must familiarize yourself with the prescribed syllabus for the NDA 2024 exam, as it serves as the key basis of any exam. Subjects including mathematics, English, physics, chemistry, history, geography, and current affairs are usually covered in the course.

Create a Proper NDA Study Plan

Create a study plan that allows you to properly complete the entire syllabus while finding a balance across all the subjects. Set achievable goals and allot particular timeslots to study every subject. Maintain a regular study routine to ensure complete preparation.

Make a Habit of Reading Newspaper

Read newspapers, magazines, and web news sites on a regular basis to stay up to date on national and international events. Write down important events and make sure to look them over often. You should also pay attention to topics that remain static, like history, geography, economics, and science.

Solve NDA Previous Year’s Papers

Solving question papers and practice tests from NDA previous year's paper is a good way to get prepared. This helps you get used to the style and types of questions on the actual examination, and it also improves your time management skills. Think carefully about your performance, figure out what needs to be fixed, and then work on improving those areas.

Improve Communication Skills

Good communication is important for performing well in the SSB Interview. That’s why it is very important to work on improving your English language skills, including grammar, vocabulary, understanding, and writing.

NDA aspirants should never ignore SSB Interviews. People who want to join the NDA should know that you can't get a rank on the final ranking list without passing the SSB interview. It is very important to prepare for the SSB Interview beforehand.

Work on Physical Fitness

Physical fitness is also essential for SSB interviews because certain posts require good physical fitness. Participate in frequent physical workouts, sports, and activities to improve endurance, stamina, and general fitness.

Subject Wise Tips for NDA Preparation in 3 Months

To perform well in the NDA exam, candidates need to prepare thoroughly for every subject included in the syllabus. Below we have provided subject-wise tips to prepare NDA exam:

Mathematics:

Devote a significant portion of study time to mathematics, given its importance in the exam.
Practice daily to improve both speed and accuracy in solving mathematical problems.

English:

Dedicate regular intervals for vocabulary enhancement, grammar practice, and reading comprehension exercises.

Physics:

Focus on mastering fundamental principles and then look into complex topics within physics.
Solve previous years' papers to know trends of topics and question patterns.

Chemistry:

Prioritize understanding of the fundamental theories and concepts of chemistry.
Use notes for revising formulas, equations and other important facts.

History:

Use NCERT books as primary study material to understand fundamental historical concepts.
Prepare concise notes for efficient last-minute revision.

Geography:

Ensure a thorough understanding of basic concepts outlined in the latest syllabus.
Learn maps, diagrams, and other visual aids to maximize your score.

Current Events:

Stay updated with national and international events through regular reading of newspapers and current affairs materials.
Create brief notes summarizing key current events for quick revision.