CDS 2 2025: Subject-Wise Strategy for English, GK & Mathematics

If your dream is to serve your nation, joining the Indian Army is your way to go. No matter where in the world you will be looked upon with respect and admiration. To achieve this goal, you will have to clear the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam to join the Indian Armed Forces through the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), and Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). The upcoming CDS 2 2025 requires a smart, subject-wise strategy to maximize your score in English, General Knowledge (GK), and Mathematics.

In this guide, we’ll break down each subject, analyze the exam pattern, and give you actionable tips—along with easy-to-read tables for clarity. So, let’s get started.

CDS 2 Exam Pattern

Note: For OTA, only English and GK are conducted (200 marks total).

English Strategy for CDS 2 2025

The English paper tests grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and usage. Scoring high in this section is very achievable with consistent practice using the CDS English book.

English Preparation Test:

1. Grammar Mastery: revise rules of important topics like verb, noun, adjective, subject-verb agreement, articles, etc. regularly. 

2.  Vocabulary Building: Read good newspapers like The Hindu and Times Express to improve your reading skills and learn new words daily. 

3. Mock Test: Evaluating yourself using a mock test can help you score better. Make sure to purchase a good CDS book for 2025 for practice questions and short notes to learn and revise quickly. 

General Knowledge (GK) Strategy for CDS 2 2025

GK is often the most unpredictable section, as it covers a vast syllabus—ranging from current affairs to static subjects like history, geography, polity, and science.

GK Preparation Tips:

1. Learn from NCERTs: NCERTs should be the first step of your preparation. You can move on to the complex books offered by publications like Oswaal Books to fine-tune your preparation.

2. Static GK: Focus on important dates, defense exercises, awards, geography maps, etc. All the important topics combined can be found in the CDS GK Book, which will also help you in practicing and revising. 

3.  Daily news: Take out an hour to watch daily news and read magazines and newspapers. Make sure to quiz yourself regularly. 

4. Focus on Current Affairs: Watching the news is not enough to keep yourself up-to-date with the current affairs of the nation and the world. Make sure to follow a well-known magazine every month and visit social discussion forums regularly.

Monthly GK Coverage Plan

Mathematics Strategy for CDS 2 2025

The mathematics paper checks concept clarity, accuracy, and speed. The level is up to Class 10, but questions are tricky and calculation-heavy.

Preparation tips:

1. Conceptual Clarity: Focus on conceptual clarity to be able to solve questions easily. 

2. Formula and shortcuts: learn to use tricks, formulae, and shortcuts to solve questions within seconds. 

3. Regular practice: Practice can make you so much more efficient. Solving questions and reviewing your mistakes daily can improve your scores and chances of selection. 

4. Mock test with timer: To get familiar with the exam pattern and types of questions asked, make sure to solve many mock tests with a timer. This will also help you to manage stress and still give your best. 

5. Previous year question papers: CDS mathematics previous question papers can be your window into how much you are able to score and how much you should be able to score to crack the exam. 

Weekly Preparation Plan:

TIME MANAGEMENT IN THE CDS EXAM:

Tip: Always attempt easy questions first and mark tricky ones for review.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Basics—Being overconfident in a subject like math can lead to silly mistakes.

2. Neglecting Current Affairs – GK isn’t just static; updated news is crucial. So, make sure to go through the newspaper and monthly magazines daily.

3. Skipping English Practice—Many candidates assume English is “easy” and lose marks due to grammar errors. This subject can make or break your score.

4. Poor Time Division – Spending too long on one question reduces your attempt count. Make sure to focus on CDS mathematics previous question papers to master time management techniques.

Read More: Only 30 Days Left for CDS 2025? Here's Your Final Prep Strategy

Final 3-month Revision plan-

Conclusion

A subject-wise strategy is essential for cracking CDS 2 2025. All the subjects require extensive practice and strong conceptual knowledge. Follow a consistent and disciplined approach with timed practice. With the help of the above-mentioned study plans and analysing your performance regularly, you can significantly boost your chances of success.