NDA-2 2025 Exam Preparation: The Ultimate 90-Day Action Plan by Shield Defence Academy
Are you dreaming of joining the Indian Armed Forces? Then, the NDA-2 2025 Exam could be your ticket to an elite career. Held by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), this exam opens the gates to the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA). This article is your complete roadmap — NDA-2 2025 Exam Preparation: The Ultimate 90-Day Action Plan — crafted for anyone serious about clearing it in one go.
Understanding the NDA-2 2025 Exam Structure
Subjects and Syllabus Overview
The NDA-2 exam consists of two papers:
Mathematics (300 marks)
General Ability Test (GAT) (600 marks) — covering English, General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Science, History, Geography, and Polity.
Exam Pattern
Duration: 2.5 hours per paper
Mode: Offline
Language: Bilingual (English & Hindi)
Negative Marking: Yes (0.33 marks deducted per wrong answer)
Marking Scheme
Mathematics: +2.5 per correct answer, -0.83 per wrong one
GAT: +4 per correct answer, -1.33 per wrong one
Setting Your Goals for the 90-Day Journey
Before we dive into the plan, let’s set the right mindset.
How to Set Realistic Study Goals
Break down the syllabus. Make weekly targets. Track your progress. You don’t need to be perfect — you need to be consistent.
Importance of Discipline and Consistency
Studying for NDA is like training for a marathon. Missing a day is like skipping a lap. Stay on track, and results will follow.
NDA-2 2025 Exam Preparation: The Ultimate 90-Day Action Plan
Phase 1 – Days 1 to 30: Foundation Building
English Grammar and Vocabulary
Learn 10 new words daily.
Cover grammar rules: tenses, voices, narration, articles.
Practice comprehension passages and cloze tests.
Basic Mathematics Skills
Revise Class 9 & 10 topics: algebra, trigonometry, geometry.
Practice daily: 25-30 problems minimum.
General Science and History Overview
Start with NCERTs.
Watch topic-wise YouTube videos.
Make flashcards for quick memory.
Phase 2 – Days 31 to 60: Concept Clarity & Practice
Strengthening Core Concepts
Focus on tricky topics: calculus, matrices, and grammar exceptions.
Spend more time on weak areas.
Daily Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers
Solve one paper every two days.
Analyze errors. Revise weak spots immediately.
Time Management Strategies
Use Pomodoro Technique (25 min study + 5 min break).
Prioritize high-weightage topics.
Phase 3 – Days 61 to 90: Final Revision & Exam Readiness
Solving Full-Length Tests
Attempt tests under real exam conditions.
Review and improve test-taking strategies.
Revision Techniques
Make cheat sheets.
Focus on key formulas, historical dates, and vocab.
Mental Preparation and Confidence Building
Visualize your success.
Practice breathing exercises for calmness.
Daily Routine of an NDA Aspirant
Sample Daily Time Table
| Time Slot | Task |
|---|---|
| 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM | Wake Up + Meditation |
| 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM | Mathematics |
| 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Breakfast + Break |
| 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | GAT English |
| 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Science / History |
| 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Lunch + Rest |
| 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Mock Test |
| 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Break / Exercise |
| 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Test Analysis / Doubts |
| 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Dinner |
| 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Vocabulary / Current Affairs |
| 9:30 PM | Sleep |
Study vs Rest Balance
Rest is as important as study. Sleep well. Stay active.
Smart Tips to Crack NDA-2 2025 in First Attempt
Be Regular: Don’t cram, plan.
Don’t Skip Mock Tests: They simulate the real thing.
Avoid Multitasking: Focus on one subject at a time.
Stay Healthy: A healthy mind sits in a healthy body.
Best Books and Resources for NDA-2 2025 Exam Preparation
Recommended Books
Mathematics: RS Aggarwal, NDA Pathfinder (Arihant)
English: Wren & Martin, Word Power Made Easy
GAT: Lucent’s GK, NCERTs (6–10), Manorama Yearbook
Online Platforms
Unacademy
YouTube (Major Kalshi Classes, StudyIQ)
Testbook
BYJU’s
The Role of Coaching vs Self-Study
Pros and Cons
| Coaching | Self-Study |
|---|---|
| Expert Guidance | Flexible Timetable |
| Doubt Solving | Saves Money |
| Regular Tests | Personalized Pace |
Choose based on your learning style and budget.
Mock Tests – The Game Changer
Don’t underestimate the power of practice exams. Attempt 20+ mocks before D-Day. Analyze every test — it’s your growth mirror.
Handling Exam Stress and Staying Motivated
Talk to mentors or peers when stuck.
Take breaks and pursue a hobby.
Motivation is like bathing — do it daily.
Revision Checklist – What You Must Not Miss
Formulas in Maths
English Grammar Rules
Important Dates in History
Geography Maps
Defense-related Current Affairs
Nutrition, Sleep, and Fitness for Peak Brain Performance
Diet Tips
Eat protein-rich and iron-rich foods.
Avoid junk and sugar rushes.
Fitness Routine
30 mins walk/jog daily.
Stretching and basic strength workouts.
What to Do One Week Before the Exam
Stop learning new topics.
Light revision only.
Solve 2–3 mock tests.
Pack documents, ID, stationery in advance.
Conclusion for NDA-2 2025 Exam Preparation: The Ultimate 90-Day Action Plan
So there you go! This was your complete guide to NDA-2 2025 Exam Preparation: The Ultimate 90-Day Action Plan. Stick to this plan, stay consistent, and don’t forget to believe in yourself. You’re not just preparing for an exam; you’re preparing for a life of honor, courage, and discipline. So buckle up and charge ahead. Jai Hind!
