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The Right Way to Prepare for NDA 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing for the National Defence Academy (NDA) 2025 is a milestone for much aspiring defence personnel. Achieving success requires strategy, consistency, and the right mindset. If you're wondering about the best approach, here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to ace NDA 2025.
Step 1: Understand the NDA Exam Pattern
The NDA exam consists of two stages:
Written Exam
Mathematics:
Total Marks: 300
Time: 2.5 hours
General Ability Test (GAT):
Total Marks: 600
Time: 2.5 hours
SSB Interview
Total Marks: 900
Conducted over 5 days to assess personality, leadership, and communication skills.
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility
To avoid disqualification, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:
Age: Candidates must be born between July 2, 2006, and July 1, 2009, for NDA 2025 (exact dates may vary).
Education:
Army Wing: Class 12 or equivalent pass.
Navy/Air Force Wings: Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics.
Physical Fitness: Follow the Indian Armed Forces' physical standards.
Step 3: Build a Study Plan
Consistency is key. Divide your study time into subjects, and prioritize your weak areas.
Sample Weekly Study Plan
Day | Subject | Topics | Time |
Monday | Mathematics | Algebra, Trigonometry | 3 hours |
Tuesday | GAT (English) | Grammar, Vocabulary | 2 hours |
Wednesday | GAT (GK) | History, Polity, Geography | 2 hours |
Thursday | Science | Physics and Chemistry basics | 2 hours |
Friday | Current Affairs | Newspaper reading and quizzes | 1.5 hours |
Saturday | Mock Tests | Written Exam Practice | 3 hours |
Sunday | Physical Training | Running, push-ups, obstacle tasks | 1 hour |
Step 4: Focus on Subject-Wise Preparation
1. Mathematics
Key Topics: Algebra, Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, Trigonometry.
Use NCERT (Class 11 & 12) and books like R.S. Aggarwal for practice.
Solve at least 30 problems daily.
2. General Ability Test (GAT)
English: Improve grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
General Knowledge: Read NCERT books for history, geography, and polity.
Science: Understand Class 10–12 concepts.
3. Current Affairs
Read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express.
Watch defence-related updates on YouTube channels like Manasa Defence Academy's Channel.
Step 5: Physical Fitness Preparation
The NDA demands physical fitness. Start with these:
Running: Practice 2.4 km runs daily.
Push-Ups & Pull-Ups: Gradually increase repetitions.
Swimming: Recommended but optional.
Stretching: Avoid injuries with proper warm-ups and cool-downs.
Step 6: Practice SSB Techniques
Develop communication skills through group discussions and debates.
Work on psychological tasks like Thematic Apperception Tests (TAT) and Word Association Tests (WAT).
Participate in mock SSB sessions at reputed academies like Manasa Defence Academy.
Step 7: Take Mock Tests and Solve Previous Papers
Mock tests replicate the real exam experience and identify areas that need enhancement.
Use platforms like Testbook or Manasa Defence Academy's mock test series.
Solve at least 10 years’ worth of previous NDA question papers.
Step 8: Join a Reputed NDA Coaching Center
For structured guidance, enroll in a top coaching center.
Manasa Defence Academy, Visakhapatnam is highly recommended for its comprehensive NDA training.
Benefits include:
Expert faculty.
SSB interview preparation.
Physical fitness and personality development programs.
Step 9: Register for the NDA 2025 Exam
Visit the UPSC official website (www.upsc.gov.in) to:
Fill out the application form.
Upload required documents.
Pay the application fee.
Step 10: Stay Consistent and Motivated
Set small, achievable goals to keep yourself motivated.
Surround yourself with like-minded aspirants or join online forums.
Remember, discipline and hard work are your best allies.
Conclusion
Starting early with a clear strategy will set you apart in the competitive NDA 2025 exam. Combine consistent self-study, professional guidance, and rigorous practice to achieve success. Whether you're self-preparing or joining a coaching academy like Manasa Defence Academy, the right mindset and effort will lead you to the gates of the National Defence Academy.