Prelims Syllabus of NDA Exam 2024
Mathematics
Algebra:
- Sets, Relations and Functions: Sets, subsets, operations on sets, Venn diagrams, De Morganâs Laws, Cartesian product of sets, Relations, Types of relations, Equivalence relations, Functions, Types of functions, Inverse functions, Composition of functions.
- Algebra of Matrices: Matrices, Types of matrices, Operations on matrices, Determinant of a matrix, Adjoint and inverse of a matrix, Rank of a matrix, Linear equations, Solution of linear equations using matrices.
- Determinants: Determinant of a square matrix, Properties of determinants, Minors and cofactors, Adjoint of a matrix, Inverse of a matrix, Applications of determinants in solving linear equations.
- Quadratic Equations: Quadratic equations, Solution of quadratic equations, Nature of roots, Relation between roots and coefficients, Formation of quadratic equations, Applications of quadratic equations.
- Sequences and Series: Arithmetic progression (A.P.), Geometric progression (G.P.), Harmonic progression (H.P.), Arithmetic mean (A.M.), Geometric mean (G.M.), Harmonic mean (H.M.), Relation between A.M., G.M. and H.M., Sum of n terms of A.P., G.P. and H.P., Infinite geometric series.
- Binomial Theorem: Binomial theorem for positive integral index, General term, Middle term, Properties of binomial coefficients.
- Permutation and Combination: Fundamental principle of counting, Permutation, Combination, Properties of permutation and combination, Applications of permutation and combination.
- Trigonometry: Trigonometric ratios, Trigonometric identities, Trigonometric equations, Inverse trigonometric functions, Heights and distances, Solution of triangles.
- Coordinate Geometry: Cartesian coordinates, Distance formula, Section formula, Slope of a line, Equation of a line, Angle between two lines, Distance of a point from a line, Equation of a circle, Equation of a parabola, Equation of an ellipse, Equation of a hyperbola.
- Vectors: Vectors, Types of vectors, Operations on vectors, Scalar product, Vector product, Applications of vectors.
- Three Dimensional Geometry: Direction cosines and direction ratios, Equation of a line in space, Equation of a plane, Angle between two lines, Angle between a line and a plane, Distance of a point from a line, Distance of a point from a plane.
- Statistics and Probability: Measures of central tendency, Measures of dispersion, Correlation, Regression, Probability, Conditional probability, Bayesâ theorem.
Calculus:
- Limits and Continuity: Limits of functions, Continuity of functions, Properties of limits and continuity.
- Differentiation: Differentiation of functions, Rules of differentiation, Differentiation of trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions, Higher order derivatives, Applications of derivatives.
- Integration: Integration of functions, Methods of integration, Definite integrals, Applications of integration.
- Differential Equations: Formation of differential equations, Solution of differential equations, Applications of differential equations.
Other Topics:
- Mathematical Reasoning: Statements, Logical connectives, Truth tables, Quantifiers, Logical equivalence, Converse, Inverse, Contrapositive.
- Statistics: Measures of central tendency, Measures of dispersion, Correlation, Regression.
- Probability: Probability, Conditional probability, Bayesâ theorem.
General Ability Test
English:
- Vocabulary: Synonyms, Antonyms, One-word substitution, Idioms and phrases, Phrasal verbs.
- Grammar: Parts of speech, Tenses, Articles, Prepositions, Conjunctions, Clauses, Sentences, Active and passive voice, Direct and indirect speech.
- Comprehension: Reading comprehension passages, Comprehension questions based on the passages.
- Composition: Paragraph writing, Essay writing, Letter writing, Précis writing.
General Knowledge:
- Current Events: National and International events, Major happenings in the field of science, technology, sports, culture, etc.
- History: Indian History, World History, Important events, Personalities, Movements, etc.
- Geography: Indian Geography, World Geography, Physical features, Climate, Resources, Population, etc.
- Economics: Indian Economy, World Economy, Economic policies, Current economic issues, etc.
- Politics: Indian Polity, World Politics, Political systems, Major political events, etc.
- Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Basic concepts, Important discoveries, etc.
- Art and Culture: Indian Art and Culture, World Art and Culture, Music, Dance, Literature, Painting, etc.
- Sports: Major sports events, Sports personalities, Records, etc.
Reasoning and Mental Ability:
- Verbal Reasoning: Analogies, Classification, Series, Coding-Decoding, Blood relations, Direction sense, etc.
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Figure series, Analogy, Classification, Mirror image, Water image, etc.
- Logical Reasoning: Syllogisms, Statement and assumptions, Statement and conclusions, etc.
- Quantitative Aptitude: Number systems, Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, etc.
Table 1: NDA Exam 2024 – Mathematics Syllabus Breakdown
| Topic | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| Algebra | Sets, Relations and Functions, Algebra of Matrices, Determinants, Quadratic Equations, Sequences and Series, Binomial Theorem, Permutation and Combination |
| Trigonometry | Trigonometric ratios, Trigonometric identities, Trigonometric equations, Inverse trigonometric functions, Heights and distances, Solution of triangles |
| Coordinate Geometry | Cartesian coordinates, Distance formula, Section formula, Slope of a line, Equation of a line, Angle between two lines, Distance of a point from a line, Equation of a circle, Equation of a parabola, Equation of an ellipse, Equation of a hyperbola |
| Vectors | Vectors, Types of vectors, Operations on vectors, Scalar product, Vector product, Applications of vectors |
| Three Dimensional Geometry | Direction cosines and direction ratios, Equation of a line in space, Equation of a plane, Angle between two lines, Angle between a line and a plane, Distance of a point from a line, Distance of a point from a plane |
| Calculus | Limits and Continuity, Differentiation, Integration, Differential Equations |
| Other Topics | Mathematical Reasoning, Statistics, Probability |
Table 2: NDA Exam 2024 – General Ability Test Syllabus Breakdown
| Topic | Subtopics |
|---|---|
| English | Vocabulary, Grammar, Comprehension, Composition |
| General Knowledge | Current Events, History, Geography, Economics, Politics, Science, Art and Culture, Sports |
| Reasoning and Mental Ability | Verbal Reasoning, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude |
Preparation Strategy
- Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly understand the syllabus for both Mathematics and General Ability Test.
- Refer to Recommended Books: Refer to standard textbooks and study materials recommended for the NDA exam.
- Create a Study Plan: Develop a realistic and achievable study plan that covers all the topics.
- Practice Regularly: Practice previous years’ question papers and mock tests to get familiar with the exam pattern and improve your time management skills.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and dedicate extra time to improve them.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Regularly read newspapers, magazines, and online resources to stay updated with current events.
- Develop Time Management Skills: Learn to solve problems quickly and accurately within the allotted time.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Ensure adequate sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet to stay focused and motivated.
Important Resources
- National Defence Academy (NDA) Official Website: https://www.upsc.gov.in/
- NCERT Textbooks: NCERT textbooks for Mathematics and Science are highly recommended.
- Previous Years’ Question Papers: Practice previous years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern and difficulty level.
- Mock Tests: Take mock tests regularly to assess your preparation level and identify areas for improvement.
- Online Study Resources: Utilize online platforms and websites that offer study materials, mock tests, and expert guidance.
Tips for Success
- Focus on Fundamentals: Ensure a strong foundation in basic concepts and formulas.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to success in the NDA exam.
- Time Management: Develop effective time management skills to solve problems within the allotted time.
- Stay Calm and Focused: Avoid anxiety and maintain a calm and focused mindset during the exam.
- Believe in Yourself: Have confidence in your abilities and believe in your success.
Conclusion
The NDA exam is a challenging but rewarding exam that requires dedication, hard work, and a well-structured preparation strategy. By following the syllabus, utilizing recommended resources, and practicing regularly, you can increase your chances of success in the exam. Remember to stay motivated, focused, and believe in your abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers:
General:
Q: What is the eligibility criteria for the NDA exam?
A: You must be an unmarried male candidate between the ages of 16.5 and 19.5 years old.
Q: How many attempts are allowed for the NDA exam?
A: A maximum of six attempts are allowed, with a maximum age limit of 19.5 years for the first attempt.
Q: What is the exam pattern for the NDA exam?
A: The exam consists of two papers: Mathematics (300 marks) and General Ability Test (600 marks). Both papers are objective-type with multiple-choice questions.
Q: What is the syllabus for the NDA exam?
A: The syllabus covers topics in Mathematics, English, General Knowledge, Reasoning and Mental Ability.
Q: How can I prepare for the NDA exam?
A: Focus on understanding the syllabus, refer to recommended books, create a study plan, practice regularly, and stay updated with current affairs.
Q: What are some good resources for NDA exam preparation?
A: NCERT textbooks, previous years’ question papers, mock tests, and online study resources are helpful.
Q: What are some tips for success in the NDA exam?
A: Focus on fundamentals, practice regularly, develop time management skills, stay calm and focused, and believe in yourself.
Mathematics:
Q: What are the important topics in Mathematics for the NDA exam?
A: Algebra, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, Calculus, and Statistics are crucial.
Q: How can I improve my problem-solving skills in Mathematics?
A: Practice a wide range of problems from textbooks and previous years’ papers.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid in Mathematics?
A: Careless calculations, overlooking important details, and not understanding the concepts thoroughly.
General Ability Test:
Q: What are the important topics in General Knowledge for the NDA exam?
A: Current events, History, Geography, Economics, Politics, Science, Art and Culture, and Sports are essential.
Q: How can I stay updated with current affairs?
A: Read newspapers, magazines, and online resources regularly.
Q: What are some tips for improving English language skills?
A: Read extensively, practice writing, and work on vocabulary and grammar.
Q: How can I improve my reasoning and mental ability skills?
A: Solve puzzles, practice logical reasoning questions, and work on improving your problem-solving skills.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid in the General Ability Test?
A: Not reading the questions carefully, rushing through the exam, and not managing time effectively.
Overall:
Q: What is the selection process for the NDA exam?
A: The exam is followed by a SSB interview and medical examination.
Q: What are some tips for the SSB interview?
A: Be confident, honest, and prepared to answer questions about your personality, interests, and goals.
Q: What are some tips for the medical examination?
A: Ensure you are physically and mentally fit, and follow the instructions given by the medical board.
Q: What are the career opportunities after clearing the NDA exam?
A: Successful candidates are commissioned as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.