For Karni Defence Academy

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) exam is one of the most prestigious gateways to join the Indian Armed Forces. Conducted by UPSC, this exam tests not just your knowledge but your discipline, consistency, and officer-like mindset. At Karni Defence Academy, we understand what it takes to clear the CDS exam in a short time span—and with our expertly curated 90-day study plan, your preparation journey can be highly structured, effective, and result-oriented.

In this blog, we present a complete 3-month roadmap for CDS aspirants aiming to crack the exam in 90 days.

Why a 90-Day Plan Works

A 90-day (3-month) study plan is the perfect duration to prepare for CDS effectively if you are consistent, focused, and guided well. It provides enough time to:

  • Cover the complete syllabus

  • Build strong conceptual clarity

  • Practice previous year questions

  • Revise thoroughly

  • Attempt multiple mock tests

The key to success in CDS lies in smart preparation, time management, and regular assessment—all of which are the foundation of this plan designed by Karni Defence Academy experts.

Study Plan Breakdown: Phases for 90 Days

The plan is divided into three phases:

Phase 1: Foundation & Syllabus Coverage (Day 1–30)

Objective: Build your base in all subjects and understand the pattern.

Subjects Focus:

  • English: Grammar basics, vocabulary, comprehension

  • General Knowledge: NCERTs for History, Polity, Geography, Science

  • Mathematics: Basics from Class 9 & 10 NCERTs

Daily Study Time: 5–6 hours

Suggested Schedule:

Time Slot Activity
6:00 AM – 7:00 AM Physical exercise & newspaper reading
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM English (Grammar + Reading Comprehension)
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM General Knowledge (NCERT + Notes)
4:00 PM – 5:30 PM Mathematics (Concept + Practice)
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM Current Affairs (Daily updates + MCQs)

Tips for Phase 1:

  • Use Lucent GK and NCERT books for static knowledge.

  • Read The Hindu or Indian Express for current affairs and English improvement.

  • Maintain a vocabulary notebook and revise daily.

  • Focus on understanding, not just memorizing.

Phase 2: Practice & Strengthening (Day 31–60)

Objective: Strengthen weak areas, solve topic-wise questions, and begin mock tests.

Focus Areas:

  • Daily practice of topic-wise questions in Maths and English.

  • Solve at least 30–50 MCQs from GK daily.

  • Start attempting sectional tests.

  • Begin solving previous year question papers.

Strategy:

  • Dedicate 2 hours each to Maths, English, and GK.

  • Set time limits for each question to build speed.

  • Start maintaining a “mistake tracker” to avoid repetition.

  • Revise weekly using quick notes and flashcards.

Resources:

  • Previous Year Papers – Practice one paper every 3 days.

  • RS Aggarwal (Maths) and Wren & Martin (English).

  • Karni Defence Academy’s online test series and mobile app.

Phase 3: Revision & Mock Tests (Day 61–90)

Objective: Full syllabus revision, improve speed, eliminate weak points, and simulate real exam conditions.

Strategy:

  • Take 3–4 full-length mock tests every week.

  • Revise all short notes, formulas, and vocabulary.

  • Focus more on accuracy than just speed.

  • Practice time management and question selection strategy.

Daily Plan:

Activity Duration
Mock Test 2 hours
Analysis of Mock 1 hour
GK Revision 1.5 hours
English Revision 1 hour
Maths Formulas Practice 1 hour

Important Tips:

  • Practice solving 120+ questions within 2 hours.

  • Do not start any new topic in the last 10 days.

  • Ensure mental and physical fitness through daily routines.

  • Stay updated with current affairs till exam day.

Subject-Wise Preparation Strategy

English

  • Focus on spotting errors, antonyms/synonyms, and reading comprehension.

  • Practice from mock tests and sectional tests available at Karni Defence Academy.

Mathematics

  • Covers Class 10 level concepts: Algebra, Trigonometry, Time-Speed, Geometry, etc.

  • Daily formula revision is a must.

  • Time-bound practice is key; use a stopwatch.

General Knowledge

  • History (Ancient, Medieval, Modern), Polity, Geography, Science, and Defence news.

  • Watch Karni Defence Academy’s current affairs YouTube series for quick updates.

Recommended Books

Subject Books
English Wren & Martin, Objective English by SP Bakshi
Maths RS Aggarwal, Pathfinder CDS Guide
GK Lucent GK, NCERTs, Karni Defence Academy Notes
Current Affairs Karni Defence Academy Daily MCQs, PIB, The Hindu

SSB Preparation Parallelly

Since CDS is followed by the SSB Interview, use weekends or the last 15 minutes of your day to:

  • Practice PPDT stories.

  • Read about current affairs and social issues for lecturette.

  • Improve communication skills via group discussions.

  • Watch real SSB preparation tips on the Karni Defence Academy YouTube Channel.

Final 7 Days Strategy

  • Revise your notes, formula sheets, and vocabulary lists only.

  • Take 2 mock tests in the last 5 days to maintain rhythm.

  • Avoid over-studying; focus on confidence and clarity.

Final Thoughts from Karni Defence Academy

Cracking CDS in 90 days is not just a dream—it’s a goal within your reach. All you need is a proper plan, quality mentorship, and the will to stick with it. At Karni Defence Academy, our mission is to help every aspirant become a future officer with confidence, clarity, and courage.

With dedicated faculty, daily tests, smart practice sessions, and complete SSB training support, you’ll never walk alone in your preparation journey.

Remember:
 “Discipline is the bridge between goals and achievement.”