UPSC CDS Exam 2023: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Defense Services Examination (CDS) twice a year to recruit officers into the Indian Armed Forces.
The CDS (I) exam is usually held in February, and the notification for the same is released in November. Aspirants who are interested in joining the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force can apply for this exam.
In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of the UPSC CDS (I) syllabus to help aspirants prepare better for the exam.

Page Contents
- 1 UPSC CDS Exam 2023: (I) Exam
- 2 UPSC CDS Exam 2023- Syllabus Overview
- 3 UPSC CDS Exam 2023 (I) Syllabus for English
- 4 UPSC CDS Exam 2023 (I) Syllabus for General Knowledge
- 5 UPSC CDS Exam 2023 (I) Syllabus for Elementary Mathematics
- 6 UPSC CDS Exam 2023: Exam Pattern (I)
- 7 FAQs on UPSC CDS Exam
- 8 Conclusion
- 9 Useful Links
UPSC CDS Exam 2023: (I) Exam
The UPSC CDS (I) exam is conducted for recruitment into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The exam is held in two stages – written examination and SSB interview.
The written examination consists of three papers – English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. The SSB interview is a five-day process that includes psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews.
UPSC CDS Exam 2023- Syllabus Overview
CDS Syllabus 2023- Overview | |
Mode of exam | Offline |
Number of sections | Indian Military Academy (IMA), Indian Naval Academy (INA) and Air Force Academy (AFA) – Three Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) – Two |
Total marks of the test | IMA, INA and AFA – 300 OTA – 200 |
Nature of questions | Objective type |
CDS 1 2023 Exam Date | February 2023 |
Language of question paper | Hindi and English |
Duration of the test | 2 hours for each section of test |
UPSC CDS Exam 2023 (I) Syllabus for English
The English paper in the UPSC CDS (I) exam is designed to test the candidate’s proficiency in the language. The syllabus for the English paper includes the following topics:
Grammar and Usage
- Parts of Speech
- Tenses
- Subject-verb Agreement
- Articles and Determiners
- Voices
- Narration
- Prepositions
- Adjectives and Adverbs
- Punctuation
Vocabulary
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- One-word Substitutions
- Idioms and Phrases
- Words often confused
Reading Comprehension
- Understanding of the passage
- Vocabulary usage
- Inference and conclusion drawn
- Comprehension and Cohesion
UPSC CDS Exam 2023 (I) Syllabus for General Knowledge
The General Knowledge paper in the UPSC CDS (I) exam is designed to test the candidate’s awareness of current events and general knowledge. The syllabus for the General Knowledge paper includes the following topics:
Current Affairs
- National and International events
- Politics and Governance
- Sports
- Science and Technology
- Awards and Honours
- Books and Authors
History
- Ancient India
- Medieval India
- Modern India
- World History
Geography
- Physical Geography
- Indian Geography
- World Geography
Polity
- Indian Constitution
- Indian Political System
- Panchayati Raj
- Public Policy
Economics
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Indian Economy
Defense-related Matters
- Defence Policy and Planning
- National Security Issues
- Latest Developments in the Defence Sector
UPSC CDS Exam 2023 (I) Syllabus for Elementary Mathematics
The Elementary Mathematics paper in the UPSC CDS (I) exam is designed to test the candidate’s mathematical skills. The syllabus for the Elementary Mathematics paper includes the following topics:
Arithmetic
- Number System
- Fractions and Decimals
Algebra
- Linear Equations
- Quadratic Equations
- Sets, Relations and Functions
Trigonometry
- Trigonometric Ratios
- Trigonometric Identities
- Height and Distance
Geometry
- Lines and Angles
- Triangles
- Circles
- Areas and Volumes
UPSC CDS Exam 2023: Exam Pattern (I)
The UPSC CDS (I) exam is conducted in offline mode (pen and paper-based) and consists of three papers – English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics. Each paper carries 100 marks, and the duration of each paper is two hours.
The General Knowledge paper is further divided into two parts –
- Part I (English) and
- Part II (General Knowledge).
The SSB interview is conducted for candidates who clear the written examination.
Tips to Crack UPSC CDS (I) Exam
- Start early and make a study plan
- Focus on the basics and practice regularly
- Solve previous year question papers and mock tests
- Improve your speed and accuracy
- Stay updated with current affairs
- Be confident and maintain a positive attitude
FAQs on UPSC CDS Exam
When is the UPSC CDS (I) exam conducted?
The UPSC CDS (I) exam is usually conducted in February.
What is the eligibility criteria for the UPSC CDS (I) exam?
The eligibility criteria for the UPSC CDS (I) exam varies for different academies and services. Candidates must fulfil the age, educational qualification, and physical standards as prescribed by the UPSC.
What is the syllabus for the UPSC CDS (I) exam?
The syllabus for the UPSC CDS (I) exam includes English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics.
Is there any negative marking in the UPSC CDS (I) exam?
Yes, there is a negative marking of 1/3rd marks for every wrong answer in the UPSC CDS (I) exam.
What is the selection process for the UPSC CDS (I) exam?
The selection process for the UPSC CDS (I) exam consists of a written examination and SSB interview.
Conclusion
The UPSC CDS (I) exam is a highly competitive exam that requires a thorough understanding of the syllabus and regular practice. Aspirants who are preparing for this exam must focus on the basics, solve previous year question papers, and stay updated with current affairs.
With the right preparation and hard work, anyone can crack the UPSC CDS (I) exam and fulfil their dream of serving in the Indian Armed Forces.
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