UPSC CDS 2 2025 Exam Preparation Strategy, Study Plan, Revision Tips

Introduction

The UPSC CDS 2 2025 exam, set to be held on 14 September 2025, is a national-level defence recruitment test for entry into IMA, INA, AFA, and OTA. Thousands of candidates apply each year, making it a highly competitive gateway to a career in the armed forces. To succeed, aspirants need a well-planned preparation strategy, the right study material, and disciplined revision. This blog provides a complete guide to help you prepare smartly for the CDS 2 exam with tips and recommended books.

UPSC CDS 2 2025 Exam: Overview

·        Conducting body: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

·        Exam name: Combined Defence Service Examination (2) 2025

·        Level: National

·        Mode of exam: Offline

·        Language: English and Hindi

·        Official website: upsc.gov.in

UPSC CDS 2 Exam Date 2025

The CDS 2 2025 notification was released on May 28^th, 2025. The last date to apply for CDS 2 2025 is June 20^th, 2025 (extended). The CDS 2 2025 exam will be held on September 14^th, 2025, the admit card for which will be released on September 4^th, 2025.

CDS 2 Exam Syllabus 2025

The CDS 2 exam syllabus 2025 is divided into three sections for IMA, INA, and AFA:

·        English: Grammar, vocabulary, sentence improvement, comprehension

·        General Knowledge: History, geography, polity, economics, science, current affairs

·        Mathematics: Algebra, trigonometry, arithmetic, geometry, mensuration, statistics

For OTA, only English and General Knowledge are included.

UPSC CDS 2 Exam Pattern 2025

The UPSC CDS 2 exam pattern 2025 is as follows:

For IMA, INA, and AFA:

·        English: 100 marks

·        General Knowledge: 100 marks

·        Mathematics: 100 marks

·        Duration: 2 hours for each paper

For OTA:

·        English: 100 marks

·        General Knowledge: 100 marks

·        Duration: 2 hours for each paper

There is a negative marking of 1/3rd for every wrong answer.

CDS 2 Exam Preparation Tips 2025

Here are effective CDS 2 exam preparation tips 2025:

·        Understand the syllabus and pattern

·        Daily reading for GK

·        Practice Maths regularly

·        Enhance English skills

·        Take weekly mock tests

·        Allocate time wisely across all sections.

Best Book For CDS 2 Exam

The best books for CDS 2 exam preparation include:

·        Arihant’s Mission Uniform CDS/OTA 2025, including 25 Mock Tests in English medium.

·        Arihant’s Path Finder CDS with study notes, PYQs & 8000+ MCQs.

Conclusion

Preparing for the CDS 2 2025 exam demands focus, consistency, and a clear understanding of the exam structure. With the right study plan, regular practice, and effective time management, aspirants can boost their chances of clearing the exam. Stay updated, revise thoroughly, and remain confident throughout your preparation journey.

FAQs

Q1. How To Prepare For The CDS 2 Exam 2025?

A1. To prepare for CDS 2 exam 2025, follow this roadmap:

·        Begin preparation at least 4–5 months before the exam.

·        Start with NCERT books and standard preparation material.

·        Make short notes for quick revision.

·        Revise regularly and solve past year papers.

·        Stay consistent and mentally disciplined.

Q2. When Is The UPSC CDS 2 Exam 2025?

A2. The exam will be held on 14^th September 2025.

Q3. What Is The Timing Of CDS Exam 2025?

A3. CDS exam timing for the morning shift is 9.00 am to 11.00 am, 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm for the afternoon shift, and 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm for the evening shift.