The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), serves as a gateway to various branches of the Indian Armed Forces. The comprehensive CDS syllabus is divided into three papers. Paper 1 assesses candidates’ English proficiency, focusing on language understanding and usage. Paper 2 evaluates general knowledge, covering current events, scientific aspects, and historical and geographical knowledge. Paper 3 tests elementary mathematics, including arithmetic, algebra, trigonometry, geometry, mensuration, and statistics. Each section of the syllabus is intricately designed to evaluate different skill sets, ensuring a well-rounded assessment of candidates’ capabilities. Aspiring candidates are advised to focus on each paper’s specific topics, emphasizing continuous practice, conceptual clarity, and a strategic approach to maximize their chances of success in the examination and secure a position in the esteemed Indian Armed Forces. Good luck to all candidates undertaking this significant challenge!
To ace the examination, it is imperative to have a thorough understanding of the CDS syllabus. In this article, we will delve into the details of each paper to provide a comprehensive overview for aspiring candidates.
Paper – 1: English
The first paper of the CDS examination is designed to evaluate candidates’ proficiency in English and their ability to use language effectively. Questions in this section assess understanding, vocabulary, and grammatical skills. A strong command of the English language is crucial for success in this paper.
Paper – 2: General Knowledge
This paper evaluates candidates on their general knowledge, covering a wide array of topics. It includes questions on current events, matters of everyday observation, and scientific aspects that an educated person is expected to know. Additionally, candidates are tested on their knowledge of the history of India and geography. This section aims to assess the candidate’s awareness and understanding of the world around them.
Paper – 3: Elementary Mathematics
Paper 3 focuses on testing candidates’ proficiency in elementary mathematics. The topics covered include:
Arithmetic:
- Number System: Natural numbers, integers, rational and real numbers.
- Fundamental Operations: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, square roots, decimal fractions.
- Unitary Method, time and distance, time and work, percentages, applications to simple and compound interest, profit and loss, ratio and proportion, variation.
Elementary Number Theory:
- Division algorithm, prime and composite numbers, tests of divisibility, multiples and factors, factorization theorem.
- H.C.F. and L.C.M., Euclidean algorithm, logarithms to base 10, laws of logarithms, use of logarithmic tables.
Algebra:
- Basic operations, simple factors, remainder theorem, H.C.F., L.C.M.
- Theory of polynomials, solutions of quadratic equations, simultaneous linear equations, and inequalities.
- Set language and set notation, rational expressions, conditional identities, laws of indices.
Trigonometry:
- Sine, cosine, tangent for specific angles.
- Simple trigonometric identities, use of trigonometric tables, and basic applications in heights and distances.
Geometry:
- Lines and angles, plane and plane figures, theorems on various properties.
- Properties of angles at a point, parallel lines, triangles, congruency, similarity, medians and altitudes, properties of parallelograms, rectangles, squares, circles, and their properties.
Mensuration:
- Areas of squares, rectangles, parallelograms, triangles, and circles.
- Surface area and volume of cuboids, cones, cylinders, and spheres.
Statistics:
- Collection and tabulation of statistical data.
- Graphical representation, frequency polygons, histograms, bar charts, pie charts.
- Measures of central tendency.
Detailed Syllabus: Click here to download
Conclusion:
A thorough understanding of the CDS syllabus is essential for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. By focusing on each paper’s specific topics, applicants can develop a targeted study plan to enhance their chances of success in the examination. Continuous practice, clarity of concepts, and a strategic approach are key elements for excelling in the CDS examination. Good luck to all the aspiring candidates!