Preparing for the upcoming CDS 2 Exam? Your search for the right study material ends here. We have curated a selection of the best CDS preparation books designed to guide you toward success. These resources serve as your trusted companions in mastering the exam and securing admission into prestigious institutions such as the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA), Air Force Academy (AFA), or Officers’ Training Academy (OTA). The recommended CDS books provide complete syllabus coverage along with valuable insights into the exam pattern and the types of questions you can expect.
These books are highly recommended as they offer thorough coverage of the CDS exam syllabus, along with practice sets and solved examples. Aspirants preparing for the exam should make sure to study the entire syllabus using these CDS preparation books for effective results.
| Book Title | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|
| English Grammar & Composition | S.C. Gupta | A comprehensive guide to English Grammar & Composition. Covers the full syllabus with clear concepts, exercises, and examples for practice. |
| CDS Exam Guide | Manohar Pandey | A recommended book for preparing General Awareness. |
| CDS GK – Objective GK | Manohar Pandey | Another recommended book for General Awareness preparation. |
| CDS Entrance Exam | R.S. Aggarwal | Best book for practicing aptitude questions. Includes multiple types commonly asked in the CDS exam. Recommended for the Mathematics section. |
| Mathematics for CDS | R.S. Aggarwal | A recommended book for practicing mathematics questions. |
| Objective General English | S.P. Bakshi | A recommended book for English preparation. |
| Wren & Martin’s English Grammar | Pearson | A recommended book for English grammar and composition. |
| Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | A highly recommended book for improving vocabulary. |
| Pathfinder for CDS 2025 | Arihant Publications | Considered the best book for CDS preparation. A complete guide with previous years’ papers, practice sets, and solved examples. |
Selecting the right study material is crucial for success in the CDS Exam. Since the test evaluates candidates in English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics, it is important to prepare with books that cover the syllabus comprehensively. For the English section in particular, choosing the best resources can significantly improve grammar, vocabulary, and overall language skills. Below is a list of highly recommended books to strengthen your preparation for the CDS English Language paper.
| Books | Author / Publisher | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Objective General English | S.P. Bakshi (Arihant) | Ideal for beginners. Includes solved examples, exercises, and detailed theory. |
| High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren and Martin | A classic book with clear grammar rules and detailed applications. |
| Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | A comprehensive resource for building and improving vocabulary. |
Before diving into the best General Knowledge books for the CDS exam, read about the general topics in the curriculum below:
| Book name | Author | Remarks |
| General Awareness | Manohar Pandey | a) Covers all required topics b) Updated regularly |
| Manorama Yearbook | Philip Mathew | a) Covers all current affairs and general knowledge topics. b) Detailed explanation of important topics |
| Pratiyogita Darpan | Pratiyogita Darpan Editorial Team | a) All important general awareness topics are covered b) Includes practice papers and solved previous year question papers. |
Before diving into the best Maths books for the CDS exam, read about the general topics in the curriculum below. The level of difficulty for the CDS math paper is Class 10th.
Read below to learn about the best CDS books for Mathematics:
| Book name | Author | Remarks |
| Quantitative Aptitude For Competitive Exams | R.S. Aggarwal | a) Helpful for beginners aspiring for any competitive exam b) Detailed explanation of topics with examples c) Includes solved examples, previous question papers & practice papers |
| Mathematics For C.D.S. | R.S. Aggarwal | a) Covers all maths topics for the CDS exam b) Has solved examples, practice papers, previous question papers, and exercises to help candidates prepare well for the exam |
| Pathfinder For C.D.S. | Arihant Publications | a) This book exclusively covers all the maths topics required for the CDS exam b) Detailed explanation of topics with examples c) Has several exercises, practice papers, and solved previous question papers |
For candidates preparing for the Officers Intelligence Rating (OIR) and Picture Perception & Description Test (PPDT) as part of the CDS interview process, choosing the right books is essential. These resources are designed to strengthen psychological test preparation, boost confidence for interviews, and provide ample practice for Stage 1 of the selection process. The books listed below are highly recommended for effective preparation.
| Books | Publisher | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Breaking The Code of SSB Psychological Tests | SSB Crack | Although primarily designed for SSB, this book is very useful for mastering the psychological test section of the CDS exam. It provides in-depth knowledge and should be studied carefully. |
| Let’s Crack SSB Interview | SSB Crack | A combined guide for both sections of the interview. It also includes tips to help candidates approach the interview with confidence. |
| SSB OIR & PPDT: Complete Guide to Stage 1 | DDE – Defence Direct Education | A comprehensive book for the Officer Intelligence Rating test. Covers all important topics with examples and exercises to maximize practice for the CDS OIR test. |
CDS Maths books are crucial for candidates preparing for the Elementary Mathematics section of the Short Service Commission at the Officers’ Training Academy. The section carries 100 marks with a 2-hour duration and is mandatory for candidates applying for IMA, INA, and AFA but is excluded for OTA candidates.
| Book Title | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics for C.D.S. | R.S. Aggarwal | Focuses on frequently asked topics in the CDS exam, covering high-weightage areas with solved examples and practice sets. |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal | Ideal for building a strong foundation in Maths, featuring a variety of solved examples and practice sets (both easy and advanced). |
| Pathfinder for CDS | Arihant Publications | A widely followed book covering the entire Mathematics syllabus required for the CDS exam. |
These books provide comprehensive coverage of CDS Mathematics, ensuring candidates get ample practice with solved examples, previous year questions, and practice sets for adequate exam preparation.
When selecting UPSC CDS exam books for Combined Defence Services preparation, it is crucial to consider several factors to ensure you choose the most appropriate and adequate resources. Here are some important elements to consider before selecting the best CDS books:
Simply having the right CDS books 2025 isn’t enough; you also need to apply effective strategies to maximize the benefits of these resources. Here are a few tips:
Remember that success in the CDS exam demands dedication, persistent work, and a deliberate approach to preparation. By selecting the correct CDS books 2025 and adopting good study tactics, you can improve your chances of securing a successful career in the Indian Armed Forces.
Let’s look at some of the preparation strategies for the CDS exam:
Factors to Consider Before Choosing CDS Books 2025
Candidates should first familiarize themselves with the complete syllabus to identify the topics that need to be covered. While preparing, it’s crucial to focus on weaker areas to ensure balanced preparation.
Understanding the CDS exam pattern allows candidates to tailor their study plan according to the weightage of different topics. This helps in prioritizing subjects that carry more marks, ensuring a better overall score.
Practicing mock exams and previous years’ papers is essential after covering the syllabus. This not only familiarizes candidates with the exam format but also helps them gauge their readiness for the actual exam.
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CDS books play a crucial role in exam preparation. Here’s why they are essential:
When selecting CDS books, consider the following key factors:
Selecting books by experienced authors is crucial, as they provide accurate information, clear explanations, relevant exam content, and high-quality material.
Always choose up-to-date editions that include the latest syllabus, recent examples, and practice questions, ensuring you study the most relevant and current material for the CDS exam.
| Tip | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Assess available study time daily. | Helps in structuring a study plan effectively. |
| Break down the syllabus into smaller topics and assign timeframes. | Ensures systematic coverage of all subjects. |
| Schedule regular study sessions and prioritize difficult topics. | Focuses on challenging areas for better understanding. |
| Plan revision sessions and maintain a balanced workload. | Reinforces learning and prevents burnout. |
| Preview content before reading. | Enhances comprehension through active reading. |
| Ask questions while reading to engage actively. | Improves retention and understanding of key concepts. |
| Take notes and use visual aids to reinforce understanding. | Aids memory recall and better conceptual clarity. |
| Highlight key information selectively and create summaries. | Helps in quick revision and efficient learning. |
| Dedicate specific time for practice sessions. | Enhances self-assessment and preparation. |
| Start with conceptual questions and gradually increase difficulty. | Builds a strong foundation before tackling advanced problems. |
| Time yourself to improve your speed and time management skills. | Develops efficiency for the actual exam. |
| Analyze mistakes and focus on weak areas. | Helps in continuous improvement and better accuracy. |
| Utilize mock tests for exam readiness and improvement. | Simulates real exam conditions for better performance. |
By following these strategies, candidates can maximize their study efficiency and ensure comprehensive preparation for the CDS Exam.
The CDS exam is a national-level test conducted to recruit candidates for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. With numerous candidates appearing, it’s crucial to prepare thoroughly using the right CDS books to ensure success.
The recommended books cover all necessary topics and are highly endorsed by former CDS candidates and experts. Additionally, candidates should take multiple mock exams to assess their preparation before the main exam.
Recommended Reads:
Ans. For CDS OTA (Officers Training Academy) preparation, consider these key books: “Mathematics for C.D.S.” by R.S. Aggarwal, which offers thorough practice in math; “Objective General English” by S.P. Bakshi, focusing on improving English skills; and “General Knowledge” by Manohar Pandey, which provides comprehensive coverage of general knowledge topics.
Ans. For the CDS exam, consider reading “Objective General English” by S.P. Bakshi to strengthen your English skills, “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams” by R.S. Aggarwal for comprehensive math practice, and “General Knowledge” by Manohar Pandey for a thorough review of general knowledge topics.
Ans. To study for the CDS exam at home, create a study plan and use the recommended books. Cover all syllabus topics, regularly revise them, and practice by solving mock papers and previous years’ questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
Ans. Every year, several candidates appear for the exam for the limited vacancies. This makes the exam competitive and challenging to clear.
Ans. Serve as a member of the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri, and act as the Military Advisor to the Nuclear Command Authority. Promote operational, logistical, and training jointness among the three Services, ensuring unified support in communications, transport, repairs, and maintenance.
Ans. Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the CDS exam every six months. The candidates can prepare for the CDS exam in three months. However, the candidates need to focus and study rigorously in order to crack the CDS exam in three months.
Authored by, Nidhi Kukreja
Exam Prep Advisor
Nidhi is a passionate writer who specializes in long-form, research-backed content that delivers real value. Whether she’s writing blog articles or creating educational modules, she focuses on making complex topics clear, detailed, and easy to understand. Her content is designed to build knowledge and credibility, helping readers gain deeper insights with every piece.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
