How to Crack NDA in First Attempt: NDA Exam Preparation Guide for 2023-24

Right way to Crack NDA in First Attempt, NDA Eligibility Criteria, Tips to Clear NDA Exam, Do’s and Don’ts for how to crack NDA in first attempt.

How to Crack NDA in First Attempt?

The National Defence Academy (NDA) is one of the most prestigious institutions in India. It offers a challenging and rewarding career in the Indian Armed Forces. Cracking the NDA exam in the first attempt is definitely possible. However, it requires hard work, dedication, and a good strategy.

Here are some tips on how to crack the NDA exam in your first attempt:

1. First Check the NDA Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for the National Defence Academy (NDA) (For both male and female candidates) are divided into four main categories:

Age, Marital Status, and Gender: Candidates must be unmarried, male, and between the ages of 16.5 and 19.5 years on the first day of the NDA entrance exam.
Citizenship: Candidates must be Indian citizens by birth.
Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed their 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
Physical and Medical Qualification: Candidates must meet the physical and medical standards set by the Indian Armed Forces. These standards include height, weight, chest, vision, and hearing.

2. Understand the Selection Process for NDA:

The NDA selection process is divided into two phases:

Written Examination: The written examination is a national-level exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The written examination is held twice a year, in April and September. It is a two-day exam consisting of two papers:

Paper I: Mathematics

Paper II: General Knowledge and English

Service Selection Board (SSB) Interview: The SSB interview is a five-day assessment of a candidate’s personality, leadership qualities, and suitability for a career in the armed forces. The SSB interview is held at various SSB selection centres across India. The SSB interview selection procedure for the National Defence Academy (NDA) is divided into two stages. The full procedure is outlined below:

Stage 1:

This stage consists of the Picture Perception and Description Test (PP&DT) and the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) examination. The PP&DT is a test of a candidate’s ability to understand and interpret visual information, while the OIR is a test of a candidate’s verbal and non-verbal reasoning skills. The combined performance of the candidate in the PP&DT and OIR examinations will be used to shortlist candidates for Stage 2.

Stage 2:

This stage lasts for four days and includes the following:

Reporting Day (Day 0): On the reporting day, candidates will be briefed by the Group Testing Officer (GTO) on the schedule of the SSB interview, dos and don’ts, and other important information. Candidates will also be required to complete a Personal Information Questionnaire (PIQ) form.

Screening Tests (Day 1): Three tests are conducted on Day 1:

PP&DT: This is a test of a candidate’s ability to understand and interpret visual information. Candidates will be shown a blurry image for 30 seconds and asked to write a story about it, incorporating seven key elements: mood, character, age, sex, future, present, and past.

OIR: This is a test of a candidate’s verbal and non-verbal reasoning skills. Candidates will be asked a series of questions in a timed format.

Day 2 Psychology Tests: A battery of psychological tests are conducted to assess a candidate’s personality, emotional stability, and suitability for a career in the armed forces. The psychological tests includes:

Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)

It is also known as the Picture Story Writing Test (PSWT). It is a projective psychological test that is used to assess a person’s personality by asking them to tell a story about a series of ambiguous images. The PSWT is similar to the Picture Perception and Description Test (PPDT), but it requires candidates to write a story about each image instead of just describing it.

During the PSWT, candidates will be shown a series of 11 images. Each image will be shown for 30 seconds, and candidates will have 4 minutes to come up with a plot based on it. The next image will be shown after 4 minutes, and the process will continue until the final slide.

The candidate is expected to write any story of their choice on the 12th slide, which will be left blank. The stories that candidates write are analyzed by the SSB assessors to assess their personality, imagination, and creativity.

Here are some tips for writing a good story for the PSWT:

Start with a strong plot: The first few sentences of your story should grab the reader’s attention and make them want to read more.
Develop your characters: Your characters should be believable and relatable. They should have goals, motivations, and conflicts.
Use vivid language: Your story should be descriptive and engaging. Use words that will paint a picture in the reader’s mind.
Have a clear ending: Your story should have a satisfying conclusion. The reader should feel like they have learned something or been entertained.

The PSWT is a challenging test, but it is an important part of the SSB interview process. By following these tips, you can write a good story that will impress the SSB assessors and increase your chances of being selected.

Word Association Test (WAT)

It is the second psychological test in the NDA SSB selection process. During this test, candidates are shown a series of 60 words for 50 seconds each. Candidates are required to write down the first word or concept that comes to mind in response to each word. The WAT is designed to assess a candidate’s personality, thought processes, and creativity.

Situation Reaction Test (SRT)

It is a test that is conducted as part of the SSB interview process. The SRT is a written test that assesses a candidate’s personality, judgment, and decision-making skills.

During the SRT, candidates are given a booklet with 60 situations written on it. Each situation describes a hypothetical scenario that a candidate may encounter in their career as an officer in the armed forces. Candidates are required to write down their solution to each situation in 30 seconds.

The SRT is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to:

Understand and analyze a situation quickly and accurately.
Make sound judgments and decisions under pressure.
Communicate their thoughts and ideas clearly and concisely.
Work under pressure and meet deadlines.

The SRT is not a pass/fail test, but it is an important part of the SSB selection process. Your performance on the SRT can help the assessors to get a better understanding of your personality and suitability for a career in the armed forces.

Here are some tips for taking the SRT:

Read the situation carefully and make sure you understand it before you start writing your solution.
Be clear and concise in your writing.
Use examples to support your points.
Proofread your work before you submit it.
Don’t worry about getting everything perfect. The assessors are more interested in your thought process than in your grammar and spelling.

Self-Description (SD) Test

The Self-Description (SD) Test is a test that is conducted as part of the SSB interview process. The SD test is a written test that assesses a candidate’s self-awareness and their ability to reflect on their own personality and behavior.

During the SD test, candidates are required to write five paragraphs on each of the following topics:

My parents/guardians’ opinion of me: In this paragraph, candidates are asked to write about what their parents/guardians think of them as a person. They should discuss their strengths and weaknesses, their personality, and their goals.
My friends’ opinion of me: In this paragraph, candidates are asked to write about what their friends think of them as a person. They should discuss their strengths and weaknesses, their personality, and their relationships with others.
My teachers’ opinion of me: In this paragraph, candidates are asked to write about what their teachers think of them as a person. They should discuss their strengths and weaknesses, their personality, and their academic performance.
My superiors’ opinion of me: In this paragraph, candidates are asked to write about what their superiors think of them as a person. They should discuss their strengths and weaknesses, their personality, and their work ethic.
My own opinion of myself: In this paragraph, candidates are asked to write about what they think of themselves as a person. They should discuss their strengths and weaknesses, their personality, and their goals.

The SD test is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to:

Be self-aware and reflect on their own personality and behavior.
Communicate their thoughts and ideas clearly and concisely.
Be honest and open about themselves.
Be able to take criticism and feedback.

The SD test is not a pass/fail test, but it is an important part of the SSB selection process. Your performance on the SD test can help the assessors to get a better understanding of your personality and suitability for a career in the armed forces.

Here are some tips for taking the SD test:

Be honest and open about yourself. The assessors want to know who you really are, so don’t try to be someone you’re not.
Be specific. Don’t just say that you’re a good friend or a hard worker. Give examples of specific things you’ve done that demonstrate these qualities.
Be positive. Focus on your strengths and what you bring to the table. Don’t dwell on your weaknesses.
Proofread your work before you submit it. Typos and grammatical errors will make you look unprofessional.

Day 3: Group Task

It consists of a series of nine diverse assessments that need to be completed in batches. These evaluations are overseen by the group testing officer across a span of two days. These examinations encompass a mix of interactive indoor and outdoor tasks, demanding both cognitive and physical engagement. Below is the order in which the nine tests will be conducted.

Group Discussion (GD): This assessment involves a gathering of candidates who are given a specific scenario or topic (frequently tied to current affairs). Their objective is to converse about different facets of the situation. The aim is not to conduct a formal debate, but to engage in a dialogue. Each topic is allocated a time of 20 minutes. It is not mandatory to arrive at a definitive conclusion during the discussion. Throughout this group discussion, the Group Task Officer (GTO) observes each candidate.

Group Planning Exercise (Military Planning Exercise): In the group planning exercise, sometimes referred to as the military planning exercise (MPE), participants are immersed in a simulated real-world scenario. Their task is to devise a written strategy for addressing the presented challenge. It is crucial to articulate the group’s solution and arrive at a definitive conclusion. This exercise comprises five stages:

• Initial explanation by the model

• The Group Testing Officer (GTO) presents the scenario verbally

• Candidates are granted five minutes for individual silent review of the passages

• Each candidate is provided with ten minutes to formulate their written responses, and

• Twenty minutes are designated for a group discussion.

Progressive Group Task (PGT): This marks the first outdoor assignment in a GTO interview. Four challenges await completion in succession within a 40 to 50-minute timeframe, with increasing levels of difficulty. The group receives structures, supportive materials, and loads to aid in the tasks. In this evaluation, a team of candidates must surmount obstacles using various tools such as a rope, plank, and wood log.

• Half Group Task (HGT): For this assessment, the group size is halved compared to the Progressive Group Task (PGT). This provides candidates with additional chances to exhibit their capabilities.

• Lecturette: As part of an individual activity, candidates are required to deliver a succinct presentation to the group. Each candidate has three minutes to prepare and present a lecture on one of the four topics provided on the lecturette cards. This task evaluates candidates based on their confidence, perspective, and viewpoints. The lecturette task mandates each participant to deliver a three-minute talk on a subject of their choosing.

Day 4: GTO Session 10 Individual Obstacles: Participants are expected to tackle a series of ten obstacles one by one. Each obstacle is assigned a point value corresponding to its number, ranging from one to ten. A time frame of three minutes is allotted to each individual for completing these obstacles.

Group Obstacle Race (Snake Race): The fourth activity entails all groups engaging in a competitive race while maneuvering a tent rolled up to resemble a snake across a set of six obstacles.
Command Task: During this phase, a candidate takes on the role of a commander. With the support of two or three subordinates, they are tasked with surmounting certain obstacles. This exercise precedes the Final Group Task (FGT) to evaluate candidate competency. Candidates are allowed to select two individuals from the group to assist them. The objective is to clear the obstacle within the specified time using the provided resources.
Final Group Task: This stage mirrors the Progressive Group Task (PGT) in its format. Candidates are given another opportunity to showcase their abilities, focusing on a single obstacle. Each group is provided with a 5-foot long Fatta, a balli, a latha, a steel pipe, two ropes, and a 5-kilogram load. The time limit for this task ranges from 15 to 20 minutes. The SSB GTO activities conclude with this task.

Candidate’s Interview

On the same day, the candidate’s interview takes place, involving a one-on-one conversation with a recruiting officer. This interview spans approximately 35 to 40 minutes.

Day 5 : On the final day of the SSB interview, the following activities take place:

Closing address by the Deputy President of the Board: The Deputy President of the Board will give a closing address to the candidates and thank them for their participation in the interview process.
Conference: The Board of Examiners will meet to discuss the candidates’ performance in all of the tests and activities conducted during the SSB interview. The Board will then make a recommendation for each candidate, either to be recommended for a commission in the armed forces or not recommended.
Announcement of results: The results of the SSB interview will be announced to the candidates. Candidates who are recommended for a commission will be asked to report to the academy for training.
Dispersal: The candidates will be dismissed from the SSB selection centre.

The conference is the most important part of the SSB interview. The Board of Examiners will discuss each candidate’s performance in detail and make a recommendation based on their overall suitability for a career in the armed forces. The Board will consider the candidate’s performance in all of the tests and activities, as well as their personality, character, and leadership qualities.

3. Strategy for Preparation

The key to cracking the NDA exam in your first attempt is to start early and to prepare well. Here is a suggested strategy for your preparation:

Start early: The NDA exam is a demanding one, so it is important to start preparing early. This will give you enough time to cover the entire syllabus and to practice enough questions.
Create a study plan: Once you have started preparing, it is important to create a study plan. This will help you to stay on track and to make sure that you are covering all the important topics.
Practice regularly: The best way to prepare for the NDA exam is to practice regularly. This will help you to get familiar with the type of questions that are asked and to improve your speed and accuracy.
Take mock tests: Mock tests are a great way to assess your preparation and to identify your weak areas. It is important to take mock tests regularly and to analyze your performance after each test.
Stay motivated: The NDA exam is a challenging one, so it is important to stay motivated throughout your preparation. This can be done by setting small goals, celebrating your successes, and surrounding yourself with positive people.
Join a good coaching institute: This can help you to stay on track and to get access to high-quality study materials.
Attend regular classes and workshops: This will help you to learn new concepts and to get feedback on your performance.
Take care of your health: The NDA exam is a physically and mentally demanding one, so it is important to stay healthy and fit.
Believe in yourself: The most important thing is to believe in yourself and to never give up on your dreams.
Choose the right books and study materials: Make sure to choose books and study materials that are up-to-date and that cover the entire syllabus of the NDA exam.
Focus on your strengths and weaknesses: Identify your strengths and weaknesses in each subject and focus your preparation on the areas where you need the most improvement.
Create a positive study environment: Find a quiet place where you can study without distractions.

Take breaks: Don’t try to study for hours on end without taking a break. Get up and move around every 20-30 minutes to avoid getting burned out.
Reward yourself: When you reach a goal, reward yourself with something you enjoy. This will help you stay motivated and on track.

4. Select Best Books and Study Materials

There are a number of good books and study materials available for the NDA exam. Some of the most popular ones include:

NDA Mathematics by Arihant (Click here to buy)
NDA General Knowledge by Lucent (Click here to buy)
NDA English by Spectrum (Click here to buy)
NDA Oswal Quantitative Aptitude (Click here to buy)
NDA General Studies by SSB Crack (Click here to buy)

You can also find a lot of good study materials online. It is important to choose books and study materials that are up-to-date and that cover the entire syllabus of the NDA exam.

5. Conclusion

Cracking the NDA exam in your first attempt is definitely possible. However, it requires hard work, dedication, and a good strategy. If you are willing to put in the effort, you can achieve your dream of becoming a part of the Indian Armed Forces. If you are interested in joining the NDA, I recommend that you start preparing early. You can do this by studying for the written examination and by getting familiar with the SSB interview process. There are a number of books and online resources available that can help you with your preparation. You can also join a coaching institute that specializes in NDA preparation.

FAQs:

What are the eligibility criteria for the NDA exam?

Ans: To be eligible for the NDA exam, you must meet the following criteria:

You must be a citizen of India. You must be unmarried. You must have passed your 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English as compulsory subjects. Your age must be between 16.5 years and 19.5 years as of 01st July of the year of admission.

What are the best books and study materials for the NDA exam?

Ans: There are a number of good books and study materials available for the NDA exam. Some of the most popular ones include:

NDA Mathematics by Arihant (Click here to buy)
NDA General Knowledge by Lucent (Click here to buy)
NDA English by Spectrum (Click here to buy)
NDA Oswal Quantitative Aptitude (Click here to buy)
NDA General Studies by SSB Crack (Click here to buy)

You can also find a lot of good study materials online. It is important to choose books and study materials that are up-to-date and that cover the entire syllabus of the NDA exam.

What are the subjects of the NDA entrance exam?

Ans: The NDA exam consists of two papers:

Paper I: Mathematics
Paper II: General Knowledge and English

What is the strategy for preparing for the NDA exam?

Ans: The key to cracking the NDA exam in your first attempt is to start early and to prepare well after understanding the selection process.

What is the SSB interview?

Ans: The SSB interview is a five-day assessment process conducted by the Indian Armed Forces to select candidates for officer training. The SSB interview is designed to assess a candidate’s personality, character, leadership qualities, and suitability for a career in the armed forces.