CDS Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CDS exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
CDS exam key facts
- The Combined Defence Services Examination consists of objective type question papers in English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics (with mathematics omitted for Officers' Training Academy candidates). Source
- Each written paper in the Combined Defence Services Examination has a duration of 2 hours (120 minutes). Source
- Candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks separately in the written examination and the SSB interview as determined by UPSC and the Services Selection Board respectively in their discretion. Source
- Candidates applying for the Combined Defence Services Examination are required to pay a fee of ₹200, with female, SC, and ST candidates exempted from payment. Source
- Applications for the Combined Defence Services Examination cannot be withdrawn or modified after submission, and examination fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. Source
📚 CDS Topics to Study (22)
✍️ Sample CDS Questions & Answers
1. The Deccan Plateau is bounded on the east by which mountain range?
The Eastern Ghats form the eastern boundary of the Deccan Plateau, running along India's eastern coast.
2. If the simple interest on $500 at 6% per annum for 3 years is calculated, what is the interest amount?
Simple Interest = (P × R × T) / 100 = (500 × 6 × 3) / 100 = $90.
3. Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate word or group of words: A journey of a thousand miles _____ with a single step.
Explanation: This sentence is a well-known proverb, often attributed to the Chinese philosopher Laozi. The phrase "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step" implies that every long journey or significant achievement starts with a small, initial action.
4. The Simon Commission was boycotted by Indians because it had no Indian members. In which year did it arrive?
The Simon Commission arrived in India in 1928 to review the Government of India Act, and was boycotted by Indians.
5. Which ancient Indian text contains the teachings given by Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield?
The Bhagavad Gita is part of the Mahabharata and records the dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna.
6. The Quit India Movement was launched by Mahatma Gandhi in which year?
The Quit India Movement was launched on August 8, 1942, demanding an end to British rule in India.
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How this page was made: written with AI tools and published by Nathan Beja, founder of Practice Test Geeks, who is responsible for its content. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy
Sources & references
Exam facts on this page (fees, format, dates, passing scores) are checked against these official sources; the date is our last check. Editorial policy
- upsc.gov.in — Test delivery, fees, exam format, passing score, retake policy, time limit · verified Oct 2026