How to Start NDA Preparation from Zero?

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Author at PW

February 11, 2026

NDA exam preparation is a systematic process of mastering Mathematics and General Ability for the National Defence Academy entrance test. Beginners must start by strengthening fundamental Class 11 and 12 concepts while building physical stamina for the SSB interview. Successful NDA exam preparation requires a disciplined study schedule, consistent practice of previous papers, and a strong focus on current affairs.

Check Out: NDA/Defence Books

NDA Exam Pattern

Before picking up any NDA exam preparation materials, you must understand the battlefield. The written exam is divided into two major papers: Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT). A clear grasp of the marking scheme prevents negative marking errors during the actual test.

Mathematics Paper: 120 questions, 300 marks, focusing on 11th and 12th-grade topics.
GAT Paper: 150 questions, 600 marks, covering English and General Knowledge.
Duration: Each paper is given 2.5 hours of NDA exam preparation time for completion.
Negative Marking: One-third of the marks are deducted for every incorrect answer.

NDA Exam Preparation Books

Quality resources are the backbone of your strategy. You should not clutter your desk with every book available. Instead, focus on a few highly recommended NDA exam preparation books that offer conceptual clarity and ample practice questions.

Using the NDA exam preparation materials from Physics wallah can also provide a structured approach with year-wise solved papers.

Book Names	NDA Book Links
Shaurya NDA Book for Mathematics	Click Here
Shaurya NDA Book for English	Click Here
Shaurya NDA Book for General Ability Science	Click Here
Shaurya NDA Book for General Ability General Knowledge	Click Here
Shaurya NDA Book for General Ability English, General Knowledge, General Ability Science & General Ability Mathematics For 2024 Combo Set	Click Here
ShauryaVeer End Game for NDA/NA Mathematics, General Ability For 2026 Defence Exams	Click Here
NDA/NA National Defence Academy & Naval Academy 23 Previous Years Solved Papers	Click Here

Effective NDA Preparation Time Management

Starting from zero means you need to balance your school or college studies with competitive prep. Experts suggest that an ideal NDA exam preparation time of 6 to 12 months is sufficient for a beginner to cover the entire syllabus thoroughly.

Morning Block (2 Hours): Focus on Mathematics problem-solving while your mind is fresh.
Afternoon Block (1.5 Hours): Dedicate this to GAT sections like English grammar or Science.
Evening Block (1 Hour): Read newspapers for current affairs and solve one previous year question.
Weekly Revision: Spend every sunday revising short notes to ensure long-term retention.

Master the NDA Exam Pattern

The first step in NDA exam preparation is understanding the two-paper structure: Mathematics and the General Ability Test (GAT). The Mathematics paper consists of 120 questions (300 marks) based on the Class 11 and 12 syllabus, while the GAT contains 150 questions (600 marks) split between English and General Knowledge. You must secure a minimum qualifying score in both papers to pass the written stage, making it vital to balance your study efforts across algebra, trigonometry, English grammar, and current affairs.

Mathematics Section: Focus on Algebra, Calculus, and Matrices; practice 20-30 questions daily.
English Proficiency: Master vocabulary and spotting errors to score high in the 200-mark English segment.
General Knowledge: Covers Physics, Chemistry, History, and Geography; use NCERTs for a strong base.
Negative Marking: Remember that 1/3rd of the marks are deducted for every wrong answer, so accuracy is key.

Select the Best NDA Exam Preparation Materials

Choosing the right NDA exam preparation books and study resources can make learning faster and easier. Beginners should start with NCERT textbooks from Classes 9 to 12 to build strong basic concepts before moving to advanced preparation material. High-quality NDA preparation resources from trusted platforms like PW provide detailed theory, plenty of practice questions, and previous year papers. This helps students understand the real exam level, improve accuracy, and build confidence for the UPSC NDA exam.

Focus on SSB and Physical Fitness

Clearing the written exam is only half the battle. Your NDA exam preparation is incomplete without focusing on personality development and physical health. The Services Selection Board (SSB) evaluates your leadership qualities and psychological fitness.

Communication Skills: Practice speaking in English daily to build confidence.
Physical Activity: Include running, push-ups, and chin-ups in your daily routine.
General Awareness: Stay informed about global defense news to excel in group discussions.
Mock Interviews: Record yourself answering basic personal questions to analyze your body language.

NDA Exam Preparation Tips

To prepare for the NDA exam, first understand the syllabus and exam pattern properly. Start studying from NCERT books to clear your basics in Maths and General Knowledge. Make a simple daily study plan and follow it every day. Practice questions and previous year papers to improve speed and accuracy. Revise important formulas and topics regularly. Give mock tests to check your progress. Take short breaks, eat healthy food, and sleep well to stay fresh. Stay positive and keep practicing daily. With hard work and smart study, you can clear the NDA exam.