The General Ability Test (GAT) is the most scoring part of the NDA 1 2026 Examination, carrying 600 marks out of 900 in the written test. Many aspirants focus only on Mathematics, but remember – without scoring well in GAT, clearing the overall cutoff becomes difficult.
In this blog, we’ll cover a complete self-study strategy for NDA GAT preparation, recommended books, subject-wise tips, and how The Lakshya Academy – Best NDA Coaching in Delhi & India can help you succeed.
Why GAT is Important in NDA Exam
- Total Marks: 600
- Number of Questions: 150
- English Section: 200 Marks (50 Questions)
- General Knowledge Section: 400 Marks (100 Questions)
- Negative Marking: -1/3 for each wrong answer
👉 GAT covers English, Science, Current Affairs, History, Geography, and Polity – making it a comprehensive test of knowledge.
Self Study Strategy for NDA 1 2026 GAT
1. Understand the GAT Syllabus
The GAT paper has two sections:
A. English (200 Marks)
- Vocabulary
- Grammar & Usage
- Comprehension & Passage
- Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms
B. General Knowledge (400 Marks)
- Physics, Chemistry, Biology (up to Class 12 level basics)
- History, Polity, Geography, Economics
- Current Affairs, Defence News, Sports & Awards
2. Best Books for NDA GAT Self Study
English:
- Wren & Martin (Grammar)
- Word Power Made Easy (Vocabulary)
- Pathfinder (NDA/NA – English Section)
General Knowledge:
- NCERT Books (Classes 6–12) – Science & Social Science basics
- Lucent’s GK
- Manorama Yearbook / Monthly Current Affairs Magazines
- Newspapers (The Hindu / Indian Express)
3. Daily Study Plan for NDA GAT
- 2 Hours English – 1 hr grammar + 1 hr comprehension & vocab practice
- 3 Hours GK/Science – mix static subjects (History/Polity/Geography) + Current Affairs
- Weekly Revision – dedicate Sundays for revision & practice papers
👉 Consistency in reading and note-making is key for self-study.
📌 Quick Links for Aspirants
🔗 Join our Telegram Channel for free NDA GAT notes & updates.
https://t.me/LAKSHYAACADEMYDEFENCE
🔗 Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for English, GK quizzes & current affairs videos.
https://www.youtube.com/@THELAKSHYAACADEMY
4. Subject-Wise Tips for NDA GAT
- English – Write 10 new words daily, practice cloze test & comprehension passages.
- History & Polity – Focus on NCERT basics + Constitution parts.
- Geography – Learn maps, rivers, mountains, and world geography basics.
- Science – Concentrate on Class 10–12 NCERT Physics, Chemistry, and Biology basics.
- Current Affairs – Revise the last 6–8 months’ national, international, and defence-related news.
5. Importance of Mock Tests & PYQs
- Solve at least 10 previous year NDA GAT papers.
- Attempt section-wise mock tests (English/GK separately).
- Analyze mistakes and revise weak areas.
How The Lakshya Academy Helps NDA GAT Aspirants
Self-study works best when combined with expert guidance. The Lakshya Academy – Best NDA Coaching in Delhi & India helps aspirants prepare smartly with the right direction.
🔥 Why The Lakshya Academy?
- 🚀 Maximum NDA Selections every year, including AIR 1 achievers.
- 🎯 Topic-wise English & GK sessions designed for NDA GAT.
- 📚 Updated current affairs modules & defence news coverage.
- 👨🏫 Expert faculty from defence & academic backgrounds.
- 🏆 Focus on both NDA Written Exam + SSB Interview.
👉 Lakshya Academy = Your shortcut to GAT success in NDA 2026.
FAQs on NDA GAT Preparation
Q1. How to prepare NDA GAT by self study?
Ans. Focus on NCERTs, English grammar, vocabulary, and daily current affairs reading.
Q2. How many hours should I study GAT daily?
Ans. At least 5 hours daily (2 hrs English + 3 hrs GK/Science).
Q3. Which is the best book for NDA GAT?
Ans. NCERTs, Lucent’s GK, Wren & Martin, and Pathfinder are highly recommended.
Q4. Which is the best coaching for NDA GAT in Delhi?
Ans. The Lakshya Academy, Delhi – No.1 NDA coaching for Maths + GAT + SSB.
Q5. Is GAT tougher than Maths in NDA?
Ans. GAT is broader but easier to score if studied systematically.
📌 Quick Links for Aspirants
🔗 Join our Telegram Channel for free NDA GAT notes & updates.
https://t.me/LAKSHYAACADEMYDEFENCE
🔗 Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for English, GK quizzes & current affairs videos.
https://www.youtube.com/@THELAKSHYAACADEMY
🎯 Call to Action – Admissions Open for NDA 2026!
The GAT paper is the real game-changer in NDA 1 2026. With a disciplined self-study plan and expert mentorship from The Lakshya Academy – Delhi’s No.1 NDA Coaching, you can crack NDA in your very first attempt.
✨ Admissions are open for NDA 2026 batches at The Lakshya Academy.
👉 Enroll now and strengthen your NDA preparation with the best.
📞 Contact us at: 7827363838/9313223768
📍 Visit us: The Lakshya Academy New Delhi
🌐 Website: https://lakshyaacademy.co.in/
