The National Defence Academy (NDA) is not just an exam, but the goal of all young Indians who wish to wear a uniform and serve the country. The NDA exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is what paves the way for every young Indian to be recognised as a future officer in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
As NDA 1 2026 approaches, it is time to prepare in a systematic, rational, and appropriate manner. The Lakshya Academy offers the best NDA coaching in India and we think that what it takes to make this dream a reality is simply the right methodology for every aspirant.
Understanding the Basics of the NDA Exam
The NDA examination is conducted by UPSC twice a year; the NDA 1 will be in April and the NDA 2 will be in September, in an offline format under pen and paper. A candidate must be a citizen of India, must be unmarried, and should be within the age limits of candidates born between 2nd July 2006 to 1st July 2009 (tentative).
Students are eligible to apply for the Army Wing if they have passed Class 12 from a recognized board. To apply for the Air Force and Naval Wings, Physics and Mathematics are compulsory subjects at the 10+2 level.
Exam Format
The NDA written exam consists of two papers held on the same day. Paper 1 (Mathematics) has a weightage of 300 marks and a duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes, while Paper 2 (General Ability Test or GAT) has a weightage of 600 marks and is 2 hours and 30 minutes long as well. Once you clear the written exam, there is an SSB Interview, which has an additional value of 900 marks. So the written exam and SSB Interview have a total value of 1800 marks.
NDA 1 2026 Curriculum
The Mathematics paper is aimed at testing conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. Questions are based on topics such as Algebra, Trigonometry, Matrices, Determinants, Analytical Geometry in two and three dimensions, Calculus, Vector Algebra, and Probability. Mastery of the NCERT books of Class 11 and 12 will serve as the foundation for this paper.
The General Ability Test is divided into two sections. The first part is focused on English, which tests your grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and sentence correction. The second part is based on General Knowledge. The subjects covered in General Knowledge are Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography, and Current Affairs. Aspirants are advised to develop the habit of reading English newspapers such as The Hindu or The Indian Express, as it helps improve their Read English and simultaneously develop their awareness of general knowledge.
Preparation Strategy
Mathematics
Start your preparation by studying from NCERT textbooks for clarity on concepts, and then you can study higher-level problems to reinforce the mindset and thought process. Maintaining a separate notebook for the formulae and short tricks will aid in speedy recall and revision. In addition, solving previous year papers frequently and taking a mock test regularly on weekends will enhance your speed and accuracy over time. Trigonometry, Algebra, and Coordinate Geometry are the most important weightage sections that must be reviewed regularly.
General Ability Test
In English, make reading a routine aspect of your daily schedule. Spend time reading and focusing on grammar rules, augment your vocabulary by reading, utility of books like Word Power Made Easy. Therefore, make attempts at comprehension. For General Knowledge, referring to the NCERT books from Classes 6-10 would be good enough to develop your basics.
Time Management
Discipline is the magic theme for cracking NDA. Long hours of preparing for contests are not the standard; however, the key concept is balance in your daily routine. A well-rounded daily routine will include rising early in the morning and incorporating physical exercise, as it develops stamina, regular studying, and time conducting assignments in Mathematics and General Studies. Plan to schedule short breaks for relaxation, make an effort to pursue outdoor sports in the evening, and follow up with reviewing.
Physical Conditioning for NDA
Clearing the written examination is only the beginning. The SSB and medical examinations require high levels of physical conditioning and endurance. Candidates should strive to run 2.4 km in under 15 minutes, complete about 20 push-ups, 30 sit-ups, 10 chin-ups, and engage in rope climbing or swimming if possible. Strength training and flexibility training are beneficial for overall endurance. Good nutrition, drinking enough water, and not eating junk food are equally important to achieving the desired level of fitness.
Preparation for the SSB Interview
The SSB Interview is a five-day process in which candidates are assessed a personality, confidence, leadership, and officer-like qualities. It involves a screening test with OIR and PPDT, psychological tests with TAT, WAT, and SRT. The GTO includes tasks that involve group discussions, planning, and outdoor activities. The personal interview tests your general awareness, communication skills in English, and clarity of thought.
Candidates can prepare by learning about defence-related topics, being honest in their responses during the interview, and displaying a positive attitude. The SSB is not about having the right answer; it is about being honest, displaying general awareness, and demonstrating leadership under pressure.
Final Three-Month Strategy
In the last three months leading up to the exam, your sole focus should be on revision and mock test practice; avoid starting any new topics. Enhance methodical revision of maths formula concepts, grammar rules, and significant current affairs. Stay physically active and mentally focused, and you will find that maintaining accuracy and time efficiency during this last phase of your NDA preparation will pay dividends.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many NDA aspirants lose three- or four marks because they do not bother with NCERT, simply jump from one subject area to another without reflecting on prior learnings, or totally neglect current affairs and wait until the last day or week to do physical preparation. Again, avoid using these bad strategies for your NDA preparation. Remember, NDA preparation is a collective of academics, fitness, and your ability to learn about your personal performance, which is guided by strong character values.
Motivation for NDA Aspirants
NDA is a long process, with many memorable moments, and the reward at the end can be very gratifying. As the quote goes, “The uniform you dream of is not stitched with fabric, it is stitched with sweat, courage, and discipline.” Each chapter you work through, each running route you complete, and each practice test you take, you are one step closer to your dreams.
At Lakshya Academy, the best NDA coaching in India, the secret to the success is a complete synthesis of knowledge, fitness, and the right mindset. With the right framework of instruction, commitment, and consistency, your dreams of joining the uniformed services can be realized and fulfilled.
