Best Books for CDS Exam 2025 Preparation
Preparing for the CDS exam requires a strategic approach, and choosing the right books is a crucial first step. With the competition being intense, having access to high-quality resources is essential for success.
Many candidates often wonder, “Which CDS books are the best?” and “Where can I purchase them?” To answer these questions, we’ve compiled a list of recommended CDS preparation books.
Best Books for CDS Exam will serve as your guide for the upcoming CDS 1 exam 2025, scheduled for April 13, 2025. Start your preparation early by studying from these carefully selected books to give yourself the best chance of success.
CDS Exam 2025
The CDS (Combined Defence Services) Exam 2025 is an essential gateway for candidates aspiring to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), or Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). The exam is conducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) twice a year to select candidates for these prestigious roles in the Indian Armed Forces.
The CDS 2025 Exam will be held on April 13, 2025, and is divided into two main stages: a written exam followed by an interview conducted by the Services Selection Board (SSB). The written exam consists of three sections: English, General Knowledge (GK), and Elementary Mathematics. Each section assesses a candidate’s knowledge and aptitude relevant to the defence services.
Candidates applying for the IMA, INA, and AFA must take all three written sections, whereas OTA candidates are only required to attempt English and General Knowledge. The exam follows a negative marking scheme where 1/3 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer.
To succeed, candidates must prepare well using quality books and resources, stay updated on current affairs, and thoroughly understand the exam pattern. Proper time management and focused study will significantly increase chances of success in the CDS 2025 exam.
CDS Exam Pattern
Before diving into the best books for the UPSC CDS 2025 exam, it’s important for candidates to understand the exam pattern. The CDS exam is conducted in two main stages: the written exam and the interview. Below is a breakdown of the exam pattern:
| CDS Exam Pattern | ||
| Stage of Exam | Subjects | Marks |
| Written Exam
|
English | 100 |
| GK | 100 | |
| Mathematics | 100 | |
| Total marks | 300 | |
| SSB Interview | Intelligence Test | IMA, INA, AFA is 300 marks each while for OTA it is 200 |
| Psychological Test | ||
| Group Discussion | ||
| Group Activities | ||
Best Books for CDS Exam Preparation
The following are some section-wise recommended CDS books that will help candidates in their exam preparation:
CDS Books for English Language
The English section tests candidates on vocabulary, grammar, syntax, and correct usage. Recommended books for this section are:
- High School English Grammar & Composition by Wren and Martin
- Objective General English by SP Bakshi
- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
CDS Books for General Knowledge (GK)
This section covers topics like Economics, Current Affairs, Physics, Geography, Politics, Awards, Sports, and Chemistry. It’s crucial for candidates to perform well here. Suggested books include:
- General Awareness by Manohar Pandey
- Manorama Yearbook
- Magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan, Competition Success Review (CSR), and Yojana
- Newspapers for current affairs
CDS Books for Elementary Mathematics
The Elementary Mathematics section covers topics from Class 10, including Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Mensuration, and Statistics. It’s important to focus on building strong foundational knowledge. Recommended books:
- Mathematics for CDS by RS Aggarwal
- Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by RS Aggarwal
- Pathfinder for CDS by Arihant Publications
CDS Marking Scheme
The CDS 2025 exam follows a negative marking scheme, so candidates need to be cautious while answering. For every incorrect answer, 1/3 of the marks allocated to that question will be deducted as a penalty. Here is the detailed marking scheme for the CDS exam:
| CDS Marking Scheme | |||
| Specifications | English | General Knowledge (GK) | Mathematics |
| Maximum Marks | 100 | 100 | 100 |
| Marks for Correct Answer | +1 mark for each correct answer | +1 mark for each correct answer | +1 mark for each correct answer |
| Negative Marking | -0.33 marks for each incorrect answer | -0.33 marks for each incorrect answer | -0.33 marks for each incorrect answer |
CDS Syllabus 2025
The CDS (Combined Defence Services) exam syllabus is divided into several subjects, each with specific topics that candidates must prepare for. Below is the breakdown of the syllabus:
| CDS Syllabus 2025 | |
| Subjects | Syllabus |
| Mathematics | Number System, Decimal Fractions, Time & Distance, Time & Work, Percentages, Simple & Compound Interest, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion, Division Algorithm, HCF & LCM, Logarithms (base 10), Theory of Polynomials, Solutions to Quadratic Equations, Linear Equations in Two Variables, Laws of Indices, Trigonometry, Heights and Distances (Basic Concepts), Geometry, Lines and Angles, Mensuration, Statistics |
| General Knowledge | Indian History, Geography, Indian Polity, Economics, General Science |
| English | Comprehension, Error Spotting, Cloze Test, Sentence Completion, Jumbled Sentences, Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms and Phrases |
Best Books for CDS Exam Preparation FAQs
When is the CDS Exam 2025 scheduled?
The CDS Exam 2025 will be held on April 13, 2025.
What subjects are covered in the CDS exam?
The CDS exam covers English, General Knowledge (GK), and Mathematics.
Which books are recommended for CDS English preparation?
Recommended books for CDS English are High School English Grammar & Composition by Wren & Martin and Objective General English by SP Bakshi.
What is the marking scheme for the CDS exam?
Each correct answer earns 1 mark, while 1/3 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer.
Is there a negative marking in the CDS exam?
Yes, there is negative marking, with 1/3 mark deducted for each incorrect answer.
