Cracking the National Defence Academy (NDA) examination is not just about hard work—it’s about smart planning, discipline, and consistency. With only 60 days left for the exam, many aspirants feel anxious and overwhelmed. However, with the right strategy, even two months are sufficient to clear the NDA written examination confidently.
At The Lakshya Academy, we believe that focused preparation, guided practice, and the right mindset can turn your defence dream into reality. Here is a well-structured 60-day NDA preparation strategy designed by experts to help aspirants maximize their performance in both Mathematics and GAT.
Understanding the NDA Examination Pattern
Before jumping into preparation, understanding the exam structure is crucial:
- Mathematics: 300 Marks
- General Ability Test (GAT): 600 Marks
English – 200 Marks
General Knowledge – 400 Marks
- Total: 900 Marks
- Negative marking applies in both papers
- A balanced approach is required to clear sectional cut-offs and score well overall.
Phase 1: Concept Building & Syllabus Coverage (Day 1–30)
Daily Study Time: 6–7 hours
This phase focuses on strengthening fundamentals and covering high-weightage topics.
Mathematics (2.5 Hours Daily)
Focus on scoring and frequently asked topics:
- Algebra
- Trigonometry
- Matrices & Determinants
- Probability & Statistics
- Coordinate Geometry
- Basic Calculus
Strategy:
- Solve 25–30 questions daily
- Revise formulas every night
- Analyze previous year NDA questions
General Ability Test (3 Hours Daily)
English (45 Minutes Daily)
- Grammar (spotting errors, sentence improvement)
- Vocabulary (synonyms & antonyms)
- Reading comprehension
- Para-jumbles
Tip: Read newspapers daily to improve comprehension and vocabulary.
General Knowledge (2 Hours Daily)
Cover topics from NCERT (Class 9–12):
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- History
- Geography
- Polity
- Current Affairs (20 minutes daily)
Strategy:
- Stick to basics
- Revise frequently
- Focus on NDA-specific questions
Physical Fitness & Officer-Like Habits (30 Minutes Daily)
- Running, push-ups, planks
- Reading about Armed Forces, ranks, and operations
Phase 2: Practice, Testing & Improvement (Day 31–45)
Daily Study Time: 7–8 hours
This phase is all about speed, accuracy, and confidence.
Mock Test Plan
- 2 Mathematics sectional tests per week
- 2 GAT sectional tests per week
- 1 Full-length NDA mock test every week
Post-Test Analysis is Mandatory
- Identify weak areas
- Note recurring mistakes
- Revise concepts immediately
Phase 3: Final Revision & Exam Readiness (Day 46–60)
Daily Study Time: 5–6 hours
This is the most critical phase—avoid burnout.
What to Focus On
- Revise only prepared topics
- Attempt 8–10 full-length mock tests
- Formula revision and short notes
- No new books or topics
SSB Preparation – Start Alongside Written Exam
SSB is not prepared overnight. Even during written preparation:
- Practice self-introduction
- Improve communication skills
- Stay updated with current affairs
- Watch SSB discussions and lecturette topics
Recommended Study Resources
- NCERT Books (Class 9–12)
- NDA Previous Year Question Papers
- The Lakshya Academy Notes & Test Series
- Selective GK reference books
Golden Rules for NDA Aspirants
- Consistency beats intensity
- Accuracy matters more than attempts
- Mathematics can make or break your selection
- Discipline is the key to success
Conclusion
A 60-day preparation period is more than enough if you follow a structured plan with dedication. The Lakshya Academy’s proven strategy focuses on clarity, practice, and confidence, ensuring aspirants are exam-ready and SSB-aware.
Remember, NDA is not just an exam—it’s a journey to becoming an officer in the Indian Armed Forces.
Stay focused. Stay disciplined. Jai Hind

