A Complete Preparation Plan by The Lakshya Academy
Preparing for the CDS (Combined Defence Services) Written Examination in just 60 days can feel overwhelming—but with the right strategy, discipline, and guidance, it is absolutely achievable. At The Lakshya Academy, we believe smart planning beats long, unfocused study hours. This blog lays out a clear, practical, and exam-oriented 60-day strategy to help aspirants maximize their score and confidence.
Understanding the CDS Written Exam
The CDS written exam consists of:
- English – 100 Marks
- General Knowledge – 100 Marks
- Elementary Mathematics – 100 Marks (for IMA, INA, AFA only)
- ⏱ Duration: 2 hours for each paper
- Success in CDS depends not only on knowledge but also on speed, accuracy, and consistency.
60-Day CDS Preparation Strategy (Phase-wise Plan)
🔹 Phase 1: Concept Building (Day 1–20)
This phase is about strengthening fundamentals and clearing basic concepts.
English
- Focus on grammar basics: tenses, subject-verb agreement, articles, prepositions
- Practice reading comprehension daily
- Improve vocabulary through editorials and CDS-specific word lists
General Knowledge
- Current Affairs: Last 8–10 months (daily reading + weekly revision)
- Static GK: History, Polity, Geography, Economy, Science (focus on NCERT-level clarity)
Mathematics
Revise basics of:
- Arithmetic (Percentage, Ratio, Time & Work)
- Algebra & Trigonometry
- Geometry & Mensuration
- Practice formula-based questions daily
📌 Lakshya Tip: Don’t rush. Strong basics will save time in later stages.
🔹 Phase 2: Practice & Application (Day 21–40)
Now it’s time to apply what you’ve learned.
- Start topic-wise practice from previous year CDS papers
- Solve sectional tests for each subject
- Work on time management (especially in Maths)
Focus Areas
English: Error spotting, sentence improvement, cloze tests
GK: Repeated topics & UPSC trends
Maths: Speed-based practice with accuracy
📌 Lakshya Tip: Analyze every test—mistakes are your best teachers.
🔹 Phase 3: Revision & Mock Tests (Day 41–55)
This is the most crucial phase.
- Attempt full-length mock tests (2–3 per week)
- Revise short notes, formulas, and important facts
- Identify weak areas and fix them immediately
📌 Focus on:
- Reducing negative marking
- Increasing attempt accuracy
- Maintaining exam temperament
🔹 Phase 4: Final Revision & Confidence Boost (Day 56–60)
- Light revision only—no new topics
Go through:
- Important formulas
- Frequently asked GK topics
- Grammar rules
- Take 1–2 light mock tests
🧠 Stay calm, sleep well, and trust your preparation.
Daily Study Schedule (Ideal)
⏰ 6–8 hours/day (quality > quantity)
- English: 1.5–2 hrs
- GK: 2–2.5 hrs
- Maths: 2–2.5 hrs
- Revision & practice: 1 hr
Why Choose The Lakshya Academy for CDS?
At The Lakshya Academy, we offer:
- CDS-focused study material
- Regular mock tests & performance analysis
- Experienced defence faculty
- Personalized mentoring & doubt-solving
- SSB-oriented mindset building
Our mission is simple: turn disciplined aspirants into confident officers.
Final Words
Cracking the CDS written exam in 60 days is not about studying everything—it’s about studying the right things the right way. With a structured plan, consistent effort, and expert guidance from The Lakshya Academy, your dream of wearing the uniform is well within reach.
🎯 Stay focused. Stay motivated. Jai Hind!
For more CDS preparation tips, mock tests, and expert guidance, stay connected with The Lakshya Academy.

