How to Prepare for CDS Written Exam 2014 Tips

Tips for solving the paperAdvising aspirants on how to crack the test, Chahal says, “Getting a grip on math and English is the first step as these are the most important subjects. You should also learn to manage time as speed is the factor where candidates face problems. The time allotted to solve one question is approximately one minute. Focusing on basic concepts will help you know how to prepare for CDS. Your understanding should be clear. Cramming won’t help. Solving multiple question papers will lead to better time management keep you prepared for all kinds of questions.”
Previous papers should be attempted as this helps in understanding question patterns and marks distribution according to chapters. Easier chapters should be handled first. The chapters that you already know and understand well will not require much of an effort. “Basics also play a major role. While attempting the paper, you should keep your cool and go through the entire question paper first for a few minutes. Then, without wasting much time start with simple questions and gradually attempt other questions,” he adds.

For CDS exam, you may be from any stream but for entry to Air Force and Navy, you must have studied physics and maths up to Class 12.

Strategy and skill set required The candidates must begin with ascertaining the specific requirements, in terms of syllabus for the exam, weightage of each subject/component in each subject. Draw up a daily schedule to  cover the complete syllabus at least three to four weeks in advance to the examination dates for revision and consolidation. Since the exam is in an objective type format, the major skills required are speed and accuracy. While preparing, emphasis must be on practising against the constraints of time. Timed practice sets for each examination must be attempted daily to ensure that you acquire skills such as time management and accuracy.
Make a time table so as to do three revisions – ie one detailed study and two quick revisions. Make notes while studying. Remember, once you clear the exam, you will get a chance to wear the prestigious uniform of the services.

If serving the nation instigates fresh enthusiasm in you, if you are courageous and dedicated towards your goals, Combined Defence Services are awaiting you. As CDS exam 2014 is approaching, it’s time now to pull up your socks and prepare well for them. For beginners, CDS is an exam held twice every year by UPSC for recruitment into Army, Navy, and Air Force. Depending upon the commissioning, it consists of multiple choice objective questions on subjects including Mathematics, General Knowledge, and English for permanent commission. While for short services commission, there are two papers, English and General Knowledge. Each of these papers carries 100 marks and need to be solved in duration of 2 hours.

For qualifying in CDS exam, aspirants have to prepare diligently and methodically. You can also follow these simple tips that will be quite helpful for you to crack CDS exam 2014.

CDS Written Exam 2014 Tips

• Speed is the mantra: Speed is one factor that hampers the chances of selection for many candidates. You need to have or develop a quick response time in order to answer the questions within the time allotted. This speed can be acquired through regular practice and proper time management.
• Avoid cramming rather understand: In CDS, you have to get your basics clear before appearing in exam. You get 1 minute to solve one question. Hence, you have to be precise and focused.
• Solve as much previous year papers as you can: Solving the previous papers give an insight as to the structure of question paper and the type of questions asked.
• Plan and study well: The syllabus is rather broad for CDS exam. So you should ascertain your skill set and prepare accordingly. Plan a daily schedule for studying each subject comprehensively much in advance. This allows you ample time to revise your studies and consolidate on your strengths.
• Study each subject specifically: Most of you won’t face tough time studying English as it’s all about general grammar and speaking. But moving on to General Knowledge and Mathematics, you need to be careful. For Mathematics, you have to be clear with the concepts and practice is the key here. Preparing GK requires emphasis on each section of the subject. Be aware, read the current affairs, and for other topics, read your books thoroughly.
• Consult a good study material: It will largely help you in preparing for the CDS exam.
• Revise more: Do anything to revise more. Make time tables, do three revisions a day, and also inculcate the habit of making notes while revising.