The UPSC Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination is conducted in two parts: CDS 1 and CDS 2. Both exams have similar syllabi. Below, I will provide a detailed syllabus for both CDS 1 and CDS 2, including all topics covered in the examination.
UPSC CDS Syllabus – Syllabus of Combined Defence Services
CDS 1 and CDS 2 Syllabus:
The CDS examination consists of three papers:
English (Code No. 01):
- The question paper consists of objective-type questions designed to test the candidate’s understanding of English grammar and vocabulary.
- Topics include:
- Grammar and usage.
- Vocabulary.
- Comprehension and cohesion in extended text.
General Knowledge (Code No. 02):
- The General Knowledge paper covers a wide range of topics related to current events, history, geography, polity, economics, science, and culture.
- Topics include:
- Current Affairs.
- History of India.
- Geography.
- Indian Polity.
- Economics.
- General Science.
- Static GK (Awards, Honors, Books and Authors, etc.).
- Culture and Art.
Elementary Mathematics (Code No. 03):
- The Elementary Mathematics paper tests the candidate’s knowledge of basic mathematics concepts.
- Topics include:
- Arithmetic (Number System, Fundamental Operations, etc.).
- Algebra (Basic Operations, Quadratic Equations, etc.).
- Trigonometry.
- Geometry (Lines and Angles, Triangles, Circles, etc.).
- Mensuration.
- Statistics and Probability.
Please note that the syllabus mentioned here provides a general overview of the topics covered in the CDS examination. Candidates are encouraged to refer to the official UPSC CDS notification for the specific year they plan to appear for the examination for the most up-to-date and detailed syllabus.
Additionally, candidates should prepare for each paper as per the weightage given in the examination. English and General Knowledge papers are crucial for both CDS 1 and CDS 2, while the Elementary Mathematics paper is only applicable for candidates applying for the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), and Air Force Academy (AFA).
Practicing previous years’ question papers and taking mock tests can be beneficial for effective preparation for the CDS examination.