How to Score 500+ in NDA Exam: Toppers’ Tips

The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is one of the most challenging and prestigious entrance exams for students who aspire to join the Indian Armed Forces. To secure a place at NDA, candidates need to score high in both the written exam and the SSB interview. Many aspirants aim to score 500+ marks in the NDA written exam to maximize their chances of selection. Here are some expert tips and strategies from NDA toppers to help you achieve this goal.

1. Understand the NDA Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme

The NDA written exam consists of two papers:

• Mathematics: 120 questions, 300 marks

• General Ability Test (GAT): 150 questions, 600 marks

  • English: 200 marks

  • General Knowledge (Science, History, Geography, Current Affairs, etc.): 400 marks

To score 500+ marks, you must aim for:

• Mathematics: 170-180 marks

• English: 140-150 marks

• General Knowledge: 200-220 marks

2. Create a Smart Study Plan

Divide your time effectively to cover both subjects thoroughly. Follow a 3-month, 6-month, or 1-year plan based on your preparation level.

• Study for at least 6-8 hours daily

• Give equal importance to both papers

• Revise regularly to retain concepts

• Solve mock tests & previous year papers

3. Mathematics: Score 170+ Marks

Mathematics is a high-scoring subject if prepared well. Follow these strategies:

• Focus on important topics: Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Matrices & Determinants, Probability, and Coordinate Geometry.

• Memorize formulas and practice them daily.

• Solve previous year question papers to understand the question pattern.

• Attempt at least 30-40 questions daily from different topics.

• Improve speed and accuracy by solving mock tests under timed conditions.

4. English: Score 140+ Marks

English contributes significantly to the GAT paper. Here's how to maximize your score:

• Focus on grammar rules, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

• Read newspapers daily to enhance reading skills and general awareness.

• Practice error detection, fill-in-the-blanks, idioms & phrases, and sentence improvement.

• Attempt at least 20-30 English questions daily.

5. General Knowledge: Score 200+ Marks

GK covers Science, History, Geography, Polity, Current Affairs, and Defence-related news. Use these tips:

• Read NCERT books (Class 6-12) for History, Geography, and Science.

• Follow daily current affairs from newspapers and monthly magazines.

• Prepare short notes for quick revision.

• Attempt GK quizzes daily to retain information.

6. Master Time Management in the Exam

• Solve easy questions first to save time for tougher ones.

• Allocate maximum 1 minute per question in Mathematics.

• Attempt English & GK strategically to maximize marks.

• Avoid guesswork, as negative marking can reduce your score.

7. Solve Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests

• Attempt at least 10-15 mock tests before the actual exam.

• Analyze your mistakes and improve weak areas.

• Practicing past papers helps in understanding question patterns and difficulty levels.

8. Maintain Physical & Mental Fitness

• Exercise daily to improve concentration and endurance.

• Practice meditation and breathing exercises to stay calm during the exam.

• Maintain a healthy diet and proper sleep schedule.

9. Follow a Disciplined Lifestyle

• Wake up early and follow a structured timetable.

• Limit social media distractions and focus on studies.

• Stay motivated and believe in yourself.

Conclusion

Scoring 500+ marks in NDA is achievable with dedication, smart planning, and consistent practice. Focus on mastering Mathematics, English, and GK while improving your speed and accuracy. Follow these topper-recommended strategies, and you will be on the path to success. Keep practicing, stay disciplined, and aim for excellence!

For aspiring candidates, Cavalier Delhi(Since 2001) offers the best guidance to crack the NDA exam and prepare for the challenges ahead. Start your NDA journey with expert coaching today!

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