Crack NDA (Army) — Complete Preparation Guide

Meta description: Ready to join the Indian Army through NDA? This complete guide breaks down eligibility, exam pattern, subject-wise strategies, a 6-month study plan, physical & SSB tips — plus how Manasa Defence Academy helps aspirants succeed.

Introduction

Becoming an Army officer through the National Defence Academy (NDA) is a dream for many young Indians. The NDA exam tests not only academic knowledge but also physical fitness, leadership, and personality. With disciplined preparation and the right guidance — like the coaching and facilities at Manasa Defence Academy — you can greatly improve your chances of selection.

This blog post gives a step-by-step, practical plan to crack NDA (Army) — from eligibility and syllabus to daily routines, revision plans, physical training and SSB preparation.

Why choose NDA (Army)?

• Prestigious career with responsibility and national service.


• Excellent training, lifelong camaraderie and leadership development.


• Competitive salary and career progression.

Quick facts & eligibility

• Age: Usually 16½ to 19½ years (check current UPSC notification for exact dates).


• Educational qualification: 10+2 (Physics & Math required for Army wing? — check official notification; for Air Force/Navy Maths & Physics required).


• Nationality: Indian, or as specified in the UPSC rules.

Always confirm the exact eligibility dates and requirements from the latest UPSC NDA notification before applying.

Exam pattern (UPSC NDA) — high level

• Stage 1 — Written Exam (Objective): Two papers — Mathematics (Matric level) and General Ability Test (GAT). Both are crucial.
  
  
  
  • Mathematics: 300 marks
  
  
  • GAT: 600 marks (English + GK)
  
  
  
  


• Stage 2 — SSB Interview: 5-day selection process covering personality tests, group tasks, psychological tests and interviews.

Syllabus highlights

Mathematics

• Algebra (equations, sequences, binomial theorem)


• Trigonometry


• Coordinate geometry


• Calculus (basic differential & integral concepts)


• Statistics & Probability

General Ability Test (GAT)

• English: Comprehension, grammar, vocabulary.


• General Knowledge & Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography, Current Affairs, Indian Polity, Economics.

Preparation strategy — overview

1. Foundation (Months 1–3): Build strong concepts in Mathematics and core English/GK.


2. Practice & Application (Months 4–5): Solve previous years’ papers, sectional tests, timed mocks.


3. Revision & Mock Tests (Month 6): Intensive revision, full-length mocks, SSB basics and physical conditioning.

Detailed 6‑month study plan (example)

Months 1–2: Build foundation

• Maths (2–3 hours/day): Start with Algebra, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry. Use concept notes + solved examples.


• English (1 hour/day): Read editorials, practice comprehension and grammar exercises.


• GK & Science (1 hour/day): Daily current affairs (15–20 minutes), basic NCERT science chapters.


• Physical training (30–45 minutes/day): Running, push-ups, sit-ups, basic strength.


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  Contact:
  
  
  
  

  Manasa Defence Academy

  
  

  New Gajuwaka Depot, Visakhapatnam.

  
  

  Andhra Pradesh-530012.

  
  

  Call: 7799799221, 7799799228

  
  

  Gmail: [email protected]  

  
  

  Join Manasa Defence Academy & Achieve Your Defence Career Dreams!