Preparing for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination in a limited time can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategy, discipline, and guidance, it is absolutely achievable. At The Lakshya Academy, we have helped thousands of aspirants crack CDS by following a smart 60-day preparation plan designed to maximize performance in minimum time.
If you are serious about joining the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force, this blog will guide you step by step on how to prepare effectively in just two months.
Understanding the CDS Exam Pattern
Before starting preparation, it’s important to understand the exam structure:
CDS Written Examination
English – 100 marks
General Knowledge (GK) – 100 marks
Elementary Mathematics – 100 marks
⏱ Duration: 2 hours for each paper
📌 OTA candidates need to appear only for English and GK
60 Days CDS Preparation Strategy by The Lakshya Academy
The 60-day plan is divided into three strategic phases:
Phase 1: Concept Building (Day 1–20)
This phase focuses on building strong fundamentals.
English
- Grammar basics (Tenses, Articles, Prepositions, Voice, Narration)
- Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, One-word substitutions)
- Daily reading of newspapers and editorials
General Knowledge
- Current Affairs (last 6–8 months)
- History, Geography, Polity, Economics, and Defence Awareness
- Focus on static GK along with current updates
Mathematics
- Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratio, Time & Work, Profit & Loss)
- Algebra and Basic Geometry
- Formula revision and concept clarity
📌 Tip from The Lakshya Academy:
Study 6–8 hours daily with short breaks to avoid burnout.
Phase 2: Practice & Strengthening (Day 21–45)
This is the most crucial phase where performance starts improving.
What to Do:
- Solve previous year CDS question papers
- Attempt topic-wise practice tests
- Improve speed and accuracy
- Focus on weak areas identified during practice
Subject Focus:
- English: Error spotting, comprehension, sentence improvement
- GK: Daily current affairs revision + static subject tests
- Maths: Mixed problem sets and timed practice
📌 Lakshya Academy Strategy:
Attempt at least 1 sectional test every day and analyze mistakes properly.
Phase 3: Revision & Mock Tests (Day 46–60)
Now it’s time to simulate the real exam environment.
Key Activities:
- Full-length mock tests (at least 10–12)
- Rapid revision of formulas, rules, and facts
- Time management practice
- Focus on accuracy to avoid negative marking
📌 Golden Rule:
Don’t start any new topic in the last 10 days. Revise and polish only.
Daily Study Schedule (Sample)
- English: 2 hours
- GK: 2–3 hours
- Mathematics: 2–3 hours
- Revision & Practice: 1–2 hours
- Consistency is more important than long study hours.
Why Choose The Lakshya Academy for CDS Preparation?
✔ Experienced Defence faculty
✔ Structured study material
✔ Regular mock tests and doubt sessions
✔ Focus on written exam + SSB preparation
✔ Proven success rate in CDS selections
At The Lakshya Academy, we believe smart work beats hard work, especially when time is limited.
Final Words
Cracking the CDS exam in 60 days is possible if you stay focused, follow a structured plan, and practice consistently. Trust the process, believe in yourself, and take expert guidance from The Lakshya Academy to turn your defence dream into reality.
Start today. Stay disciplined. Serve the nation.

