Union Public Service Commission conducts the CDS test for enrollment into the Indian Navy, army, and Airforce. Applicants need to undergo training at the air force Academy, Indian Military Academy, Officer training academy, and Naval academy before qualifying for the composed test and SSB interview. Lakhs of aspirants turn up for the test but only a few are selected for the test.
The CDS exam pattern is as follows
1. The exam consists of 3 papers.
2. General knowledge and English papers are compulsory for all.
3. Those applying for officers training academy and women candidates do not need to attempt the math paper.
4. Each paper has a duration of 2 hours.
5. Each paper is of 100 marks and has only objective-type questions.
Here are 10 mistakes you should avoid while preparing for the CDS exam.
1. Having An Irregular Sleep Pattern: If you do not sleep properly or have an irregular sleep pattern, then your performance might suffer during the exam. It is important that you get a good night’s rest so that you can focus on the exam.
2. Thinking The Exam Is Tough To Crack: Never think the CDS exam is tough to crack. It is not. The moment you think so, you are already reducing your chances to clear the exam. The exam will be easy for you if you prepare well for it. If you don’t prepare well, the exam will be difficult.
3. Not Attempting Indian Polity Questions: If you do this, then you are reducing your chances of selection. Attempting polity questions can give you a lot of confidence. The same applies to history too.
4. Not Reading The Newspaper: Reading the newspaper daily will improve your vocabulary and your chances of passing the exam.
5. You Do Not Have Knowledge Of International Organizations: For passing the exam, you need to know about the different international organizations like G4, G7, G10, SAARC, BIMSTEC, Worldbank, SCO, and other various coalitions. It is important to have thorough knowledge about them.
6. Studying For Many Exams At The Same Time: How many exams you wish to attempt is a matter of personal choice but it is advisable to focus only on 1 exam at a time.
7. Not Attempting Mock Tests: Along with self-study, it is also important to attempt mock tests. It will help you know your strengths and weaknesses. You will also be better prepared for the exam since the mock test will have negative marking and time constraints just like the actual paper which you will eventually be attempting.
8. Using Too Many Study Materials: You may feel that by studying from many books, you will get more knowledge but it is not so. Just reading is not enough, you need to memorize what all is written. It is better to learn from a few books.
9. Not Using Proper Study Material: What knowledge you gained during the CDS exam will be required once you enter the academy so you need to study from proper study material
10. Relying Solely On Coaching: Some students feel that attending CDS classes is enough to clear the exam but self-study is equally important.
