Complete Written NDA Exam syllabus 2024
NDA (National Defense Academy) exam is a respected entrance exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) of India. It is the gateway for unmarried men or women to join Indian Armed Forces. This exam is held twice a year and it has a strict selection process and the exam is divided in two parts Written exam and SSB Interview. Written exam is further divided into two parts Mathematics and General Aptitude Test (GAT) and only Candidates who obtain the set cut-off by UPSC in written exam are called for SSB interview conducted by the Service Selection Board (SSB).Successful candidates receive training at the National Defense Academy and are appointed as officers after completing their training. The NDA test evaluates a candidate’s academic, physical and mental suitability for service in the Defense Forces. In this blog we will share with you complete NDA written exam syllabus.
NDA exam syllabus Mathematics (300 marks)
| Overview of NDA Mathematics exam | |
| Total Questions | 120 |
| Total Marks | 300 |
| Duration | 2 ½ hour |
| Exam format | MCQs |
| Correct Answer | 2.5 mark |
| Wrong Answer | -(0.83) mark |
Topics in mathematics include algebra, matrices and determinants, trigonometry, geometry, differentials, integrals and differential equations, vector algebra, statistics, and probability. These questions are designed to test the candidate’s understanding of mathematical concepts and problem-solving abilities.
| NDA Mathematics Syllabus | |
| Topic | Sub Topic |
| Algebra | 1.Sets (Concepts & Operations) 2.Venn diagram 3.De Morgan’s Law 4.Cartesian Product 5.Relation 6.Equivalence Relation 7.Real Numbers 8.Complex Numbers 9.Modulus 10.Cube Root 11.Conversion of a number (Binary to Decimal & Decimal to Binary) 12.Arithmetic 13.Geometric and Harmonic Progressions 14.Quadratic Equations 15.Linear Inequations 16.Permutation and Combination 17.Binomial Theorem 18.Logarithms |
| Calculus | 1.Concept of a real valued function 2.Domain 3.Range and Graph of a function 4.Composite functions 5.One to One 6.Onto and Inverse Functions 7.Notion of limit 8.Standard limits 9.Continuity of functions 10.Algebric Operations on Continuous functions 11.Derivative of function at a point 12.Geometrical and Physical Interpretation of a derivative application 13.Derivatives of sum 14.Product and Quotient of functions 15.Derivative of a function with respect to another function 16.Derivative of a Composite Function 17.Second Order Derivatives 18.Increasing and Decreasing Function 19.Application of Derivatives in problems of Maxima and Minima |
| Matrices and Determinants | 1.Types of matrices 2.Operations on matrices 3.Determinant of a matrix 4.Basic Properties of Determinants 5.Adjoint and Inverse of a Square Matrix 6.Applications-Solution of a system of Linear Equations in two or three unknown by – · Cramer’s Rule · Matrix Method |
| Integral Calculus and Differential Equations | 1.Integration as inverse of differentiation 2.Integration by substitution and by parts 3.Standard Integrals involving algebraic Expressions 4.Trigonometric 5.Exponential and Hyperbolic Functions 6.Evaluation of definite Integrals – Determination of areas of plane regions bounded by curves-applications 7.Definition of order and degree of a differential equation by examples. 8.General and particular solution of differential equations 9.Solution of first order and first-degree differential equations of various types by examples 10.Application in problems of growth and decay |
| Trigonometry | 1.Angles and their measures in degrees and in radius 2.Trigonometric Ratio 3.Trigonometric Identities 4.Sum and Difference Formulae 5.Multiple and Sub-Multiple Angles 6.Inverse Trigonometric Functions 7.Applications – Height and Distance 8.Properties of Triangles |
| Vector Algebra | 1.Vectors in two and three dimensions 2.Magnitude and Direction of a vector 3.Unit and Null Vectors 4.The Addition of Vectors 5.Scalar Multiplication of a Vector 6.Scalar Product 7.Dot Product of two vectors 8.Vector product or Cross product of two vectors 9.Applications- Work done by Force and Moment of Force in Geometrical Problems. |
| Analytical Geometry of Two or Three Dimension | 1.Rectangular Cartesian Coordinate System 2.Distance Formula 3.Equation of a line in various forms 4.The angle between two lines 5.Distance of a point from a line 6.Equation of a circle in standard and in a general form 7.Standard forms of Parabola, Ellipse and Hyperbola 8.Eccentricity and Axis of a conic 9.Point in a three-dimensional space 10.The distance between two points 11.Direction, Cosines and Direction Ratio 12. Equation two points 13.Direction Cosines and direction ratios 14. Equation of a plane and a line in various forms 15.Angle between two lines and angle between two planes 16.Equation of a sphere |
| Statistics and Probability | 1.Probability: Random experiment, outcomes, and associated sample space, events, mutually exclusive and exhaustive events, impossible and certain events 2.Union and Intersection of events. Complementary, elementary, and composite events 3.Definition of probability—classical and statistical—examples 4.Elementary theorems on probability-simple problems 5. Conditional probability, Bayes’ theorem— simple problems 6. Random variable as function on a sample space 7.Binomial Distribution 8. Examples of random experiments giving rise to Binomial distribution |
General Ability Test (GAT) (600 marks)
| Quick Overview of NDA GAT exam | |
| Total Questions | 150 |
| Total Marks | 600 |
| Subjects | English, Physics, Chemistry, General Science, Geography, Current Affairs, and History. |
| English | 50 Questions |
| General Knowledge | 100 Questions |
| Exam duration | 2 ½ hour |
| Correct Answer | 4 mark |
| Wrong A | -(1.3) mark |
GAT paper evaluates the candidate’s awareness in current affair and knowledge in English, Physics, Chemistry, General Science, Geography.
| GAT Syllabus for NDA Exam | |
| Subject | Topic |
| Physics | 1. Physical Properties and States of Matter 2. Modes of transference of Heat 3. Mass, Weight, Volume, Sound waves and their properties 4. Simple musical instruments 5. Rectilinear propagation of Light 6. Density and Specific Gravity 7.Reflection and refraction 8.Principle of Archimedes 9. Spherical mirrors and Lenses 10. Pressure Barometer 11. Human Eye 12. Motion of objects 13. Natural and Artificial Magnets 14. Velocity and Acceleration 15. Properties of a Magnet 16. Newton’s Laws of Motion 17. Earth as a Magnet 18. Force and Momentum 19. Static and Current Electricity 20. Parallelogram of Forces 21. Conductors and Non-conductors 22. Stability and Equilibrium of bodies 23. Ohm’s Law 24. Gravitation 25. Simple Electrical Circuits 26. Elementary ideas of work 27. Heating, Lighting, and Magnetic effects of Current 28. Power and Energy 29. Measurement of Electrical Power 30. Effects of Heat 31. Primary and Secondary Cells 32. Measurement of Temperature and Heat 33. Use of X-Rays 34. General Principles in the working of Simple Pendulum, Simple Pulleys, Siphon, Levers, Balloon, Pumps, Hydrometer, Pressure Cooker, Thermos Flask, Gramophone, Telegraphs, Telephone, Periscope, Telescope, Microscope, Mariner’s Compass; Lightning Conductors, Safety Fuses. |
| Chemistry | 1.Preparation and Preparation and Properties of Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide, Oxidation and Reduction. 2.Acids, bases and salts 3.Carbon – Different Forms 4. Physical and Chemical Changes 5. Fertilizers—Natural and Artificial 6. Elements 7. Material used in the preparation of substances like Soap, Glass, Ink, Paper, Cement, Paints, Safety Matches, and Gunpowder 8. Mixtures and Compounds 9. Elementary ideas about the structure of Atom 10.Symbols, Formulae, and simple ChemicalnEquation 11.Atomic Equivalent and Molecular Weights 12.Law of Chemical Combination (excluding problems) 13.Valency 14.Properties of Air and Water |
| Geography | 1. The Earth, its shape and size 2. Ocean Currents and Tides Atmosphere and its composition 3. Latitudes and Longitudes 4. Temperature and Atmospheric Pressure, Planetary Winds, Cyclones, and Anticyclones; Humidity; Condensation and Precipitation 5. Concept of time 6. Types of Climate 7. International Date Line 8. Major Natural Regions of the World 9. Movements of Earth and their effects 10. Regional Geography of India 11. Climate, Natural vegetation. Mineral and Power resources 12. Location and distribution of agricultural and Industrial activities 13. Origin of Earth. Rocks and their classification 14. Important Sea ports and main sea, land, and air routes of India 15. Weathering—Mechanical and Chemical, Earthquakes and Volcanoes 16. Main items of Imports and Exports of India |
| History | 1. Forces shaping the modern world 2. Renaissance 3. Exploration and Discovery; 4. A broad survey of Indian History, with emphasis on Culture and Civilization 5. Freedom Movement in India 6. French Revolution, Industrial Revolution, and Russian Revolution 7. War of American Independence, 8. Impact of Science and Technology on Society 9. Elementary study of Indian Constitution and Administration 10. Concept of one World 11. Elementary knowledge of Five-Year Plan of India 12. United Nations, 13. Panchsheel 14. Panchayati Raj, Democracy, Socialism and Communist 15. Role of India in the present world 16. Co-operatives and Community Development 17. Bhoodan, Sarvodaya, 18. National Integration and Welfare State 19. Basic Teachings of Mahatma Gandhi |
| General Science | 1.Common Epidemics, their causes, and prevention 2. Difference between the living and non-living 3. Food—Source of Energy for man 4. Basis of Life—Cells, Protoplasm, and Tissues 5. Constituents of food 6. Growth and Reproduction in Plants and Animals 7. Balanced Diet 8. Elementary knowledge of the Human Body and its important organs 9.The Solar System—Meteors and Comets, Eclipses. Achievements of Eminent Scientists |
| Current Affair | |
Conclusion
The NDA exam is your chance to start a rewarding service career in the Indian Army. By understanding the two main parts of the NDA curriculum: Mathematics and Aptitude Test (GAT), you can create a study plan. Make sure you use materials such as textbooks, practice papers, and previous year’s exams to reinforce your understanding. Keep calm and believe in yourself; with dedication and hard work, you can clear the NDA exam and served in Indian armed forces.If you need further assistance we at Commandant Defence Academy provides the Best NDA coaching centre in Dehradun. , We help you prepare for the written test and the SSB interview, which also includes getting ready for the physical fitness part.
FAQs
NCERT Books: These books are highly recommended for building a strong foundation in core subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, and Political Science.
Reference Books and Coaching Materials: While not mandatory, these resources can supplement your learning by providing additional practice questions, explanations, and insights. Consult with experienced educators or coaching institutes to determine if such materials align with your learning style and needs.
Mathematics:This section carries 300 marks and consists of 120 objective-type questions.
General Ability Test (GAT):This section carries 600 marks and consists of 150 objective-type questions further divided into:
- English:50 questions (200 marks)
- General Knowledge:100 questions (400 marks) covering various topics like Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.
Here are some strategies to improve your problem-solving skills in Mathematics
Master the fundamentals: Ensure a thorough understanding of basic mathematical concepts like arithmetic operations, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus.
Practice regularly: Regularly solve problems from various topics to solidify your grasp of the underlying concepts.
How can I stay updated on current affairs for the GAT section?
Develop a News Consumption Habit:
- Newspapers:Subscribe to a reputable newspaper (e.g., The Hindu, The Indian Express, Times of India) and dedicate time daily to reading national and international news.
- News Websites:Utilize credible news websites (e.g. The Hindu, Times of India ).
- Magazines and Journals: Consider subscribing to weekly or monthly magazines (e.g., India Today, Frontline, Yojana) that offer deeper analysis of current affairs and provide diverse viewpoints.
- Government Websites: Visit official government websites (e.g., Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of External Affairs(MEA)) to access official statements, reports, and press releases on various government initiatives and international relations.
- Discussions and Debates: Participate in discussions and debates about current events with friends, family, or online communities. This can help you gain different perspectives, test your understanding, and solidify your knowledge.
- Note-Taking and Summarization: Develop a habit of taking notes while reading or listening to news. Briefly summarize key points and important information to reinforce your learning and aid in revision.
Additional Tips:
Prioritize Credibility: Always verify the source of information before accepting it as fact. Be wary of fake news and misleading information circulating online.
Focus on Relevant Topics: While staying broadly informed, prioritize news pertaining to national security, defense, foreign policy, social issues, and economic developments, as these are more likely to be relevant to the NDA exam.
Maintain a Balanced Approach: Don’t overload yourself with information. Aim for regular, focused news consumption to ensure effective learning and retention.
Develop a News Consumption Habit:
- Newspapers:Subscribe to a reputable newspaper (e.g., The Hindu, The Indian Express, Times of India) and dedicate time daily to reading national and international news.
- News Websites:Utilize credible news websites (e.g. THE HINDU, TIMES OF INDIA ).
- Magazines and Journals: Consider subscribing to weekly or monthly magazines (e.g., India Today, Frontline, Yojana) that offer deeper analysis of current affairs and provide diverse viewpoints.
- Government Websites: Visit official government websites (e.g., Press Information Bureau (PIB), https://www.mea.gov.in/) to access official statements, reports, and press releases on various government initiatives and international relations.
- Discussions and Debates: Participate in discussions and debates about current events with friends, family, or online communities. This can help you gain different perspectives, test your understanding, and solidify your knowledge.
- Note-Taking and Summarization: Develop a habit of taking notes while reading or listening to news. Briefly summarize key points and important information to reinforce your learning and aid in revision.
Additional Tips:
- Prioritize Credibility: Always verify the source of information before accepting it as fact. Be wary of fake news and misleading information circulating online.
- Focus on Relevant Topics: While staying broadly informed, prioritize news pertaining to national security, defense, foreign policy, social issues, and economic developments, as these are more likely to be relevant to the NDA exam.
- Maintain a Balanced Approach: Don’t overload yourself with information. Aim for regular, focused news consumption to ensure effective learning and retention.
Cracking the NDA exam requires dedication, a strategic approach, and a strong foundation in various subjects. While coaching institutes can be a valuable resource, they are not absolutely necessary