How to Crack NDA 1 2026 Written Exam in First Attempt

 

nda 1 2024

Cracking the NDA (National Defence Academy) written exam is the first big step for every defence aspirant who dreams of joining the prestigious Indian Armed Forces. The NDA 1 2026 exam, to be conducted by the UPSC, will open doors for thousands of young aspirants to join the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA and the Naval Academy.

But here’s the challenge year lakhs of aspirants appear for NDA, and only a small fraction clears the written exam on their first attempt. This raises an important question: What separates successful aspirants from the rest?

The answer lies in smart preparation, discipline, time management, and proper guidance. In this blog, we will provide a step-by-step strategy to crack NDA 1 2026 in the very first attempt, along with subject-wise preparation tips, time management strategies, last-minute revision hacks, and a brief on how Centurion Defence Academy, the best NDA coaching in Lucknow, can help you achieve your dream.

Understanding the NDA 1 2026 Exam

Before you start preparing, you must clearly understand the NDA exam pattern and syllabus.

NDA Exam Pattern

The written exam consists of two papers:

  1. Mathematics – 120 questions, 300 marks, 2.5 hours

  2. General Ability Test (GAT) – 150 questions, 600 marks, 2.5 hours

  • Total Marks (Written Exam): 900

  • SSB Interview: 900

  • Final Merit: 1800

Key Points About NDA 1 2026:

  • Negative marking: -0.83 for Maths and -1.33 for GAT.

  • Mathematics requires a minimum 25% score to qualify.

  • English and General Knowledge together form the backbone of the GAT paper.

  • The level of difficulty is mostly Class 11 and 12 NCERT standard.

Step-by-Step Strategy to Crack NDA 1 2026 in First Attempt

1. Start With a Strong Foundation

Your basics in Maths, English, and Science should be crystal clear. NDA doesn’t require you to be a topper, but it does demand conceptual clarity.

  • Use NCERT Books (Class 6 to 12) for building concepts in Mathematics and Science.

  • Improve your grammar and vocabulary using standard books like Wren & Martin and Word Power Made Easy.

  • Read newspapers daily (The Hindu, Indian Express) to build current affairs knowledge and improve English comprehension.

2. Subject-Wise Preparation Strategy

Mathematics (300 Marks)

  • Topics with highest weightage: Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Vector Algebra, Probability, and Coordinate Geometry.

  • Practice is the key—solve at least 50–60 questions daily.

  • Revise formulas regularly and make a separate notebook for them.

  • Attempt previous year question papers to understand the type of questions.

Tip: Don’t waste time on lengthy questions during the exam—attempt the easier ones first.

General Ability Test (600 Marks)

  1. English (200 Marks):

    • Focus on grammar rules, idioms, vocabulary, synonyms, and antonyms.

    • Practice reading comprehension passages daily.

    • Write short essays and practice precis writing to improve clarity.

  2. General Knowledge (400 Marks):

    • Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, Geography, and Polity are important.

    • Revise NCERTs for quick and reliable knowledge.

    • Current Affairs plays a major role—read about defence exercises, awards, important events, and government schemes.

Tip: Revise static GK regularly and update yourself with daily current affairs.

3. Make a Realistic Study Plan

Divide your preparation into three phases:

  • Phase 1 (6–7 months before exam): Build strong basics, revise NCERTs, and clear doubts.

  • Phase 2 (3–4 months before exam): Focus on solving mock tests and previous year papers.

  • Phase 3 (Last 1–2 months): Revision, time-bound practice, and focusing on weak areas.

Daily Routine Suggestion:

  • 4 hours for Mathematics

  • 3 hours for GAT (Science + GK)

  • 2 hours for English & Current Affairs

4. Importance of Mock Tests & Previous Year Papers

Solving mock tests is as important as studying. They:

  • Help you understand the exam pattern & difficulty level.

  • Improve speed and accuracy.

  • Teach time management.

UPSC often repeats similar types of questions. Solving the last 10 years’ NDA papers gives a huge advantage.

5. Time Management During Exam

  • Attempt English first in GAT—it’s the easiest scoring section.

  • Don’t get stuck on difficult Maths questions.

  • Manage negative marking by attempting only those questions you are confident about.

6. Last-Minute Revision Hacks

  • Revise all important formulas daily.

  • Go through quick notes of current affairs.

  • Avoid learning new topics at the last moment.

  • Stay relaxed, eat light, and sleep well before the exam day.

Common Mistakes Aspirants Must Avoid

  1. Ignoring English (though it is the easiest scoring section).

  2. Over-relying on guesswork, leading to negative marking.

  3. Not balancing Maths and GAT preparation.

  4. Ignoring revision and mock tests.

  5. Leaving health and fitness, which affects exam focus.

Role of Centurion Defence Academy in Your NDA 1 2026 Preparation

While self-study is essential, the right guidance makes all the difference. This is where Centurion Defence Academy, the best NDA coaching in India, helps aspirants achieve their dream of joining the Armed Forces.

Why Choose Centurion Defence Academy for NDA 1 2026?

  1. India’s No. 1 NDA Coaching: Proven track record with the highest selection rate in written exams and SSB interviews.

  2. Expert Faculty: Experienced mentors, defence experts, and ex-officers who provide personalised guidance.

  3. Updated Study Material: Comprehensive notes, practice sets, and Centurion’s specially designed NDA Books covering the complete syllabus.

  4. Mock Tests & PYQ Practice: Regular test series to prepare aspirants for the real exam atmosphere.

  5. Centurion Digital App: For online learners, the app provides live classes, recorded sessions, e-books, mock tests, and doubt-solving support.

  6. Holistic Preparation: Centurion not only prepares you for the written exam but also for the SSB Interview, ensuring complete readiness for NDA.

NDA Courses Offered by Centurion Defence Academy

  • NDA Written + SSB Course: Complete package covering written exam and the SSB interview.

  • NDA Online Course: Accessible through the Centurion Digital App for students preparing from home.

  • Crash Courses & Mock Test Series: Ideal for last-minute intensive preparation.

With these resources, Centurion ensures that aspirants are fully equipped to clear NDA 1 2026 in their very first attempt.

Final Words

Cracking NDA 1 2026 in the first attempt is absolutely possible if you approach your preparation with the right strategy, discipline, and mindset. The exam demands conceptual clarity, consistent practice, and effective time management.

Remember these golden rules:

  • Build strong basics with NCERTs.

  • Practice Mathematics daily.

  • Strengthen English and GK through regular reading.

  • Attempt mock tests and previous year papers.

  • Stay motivated and disciplined.

And most importantly, choose the right guidance. With Centurion Defence Academy’s expert coaching, structured courses, and digital learning support, your dream of becoming an officer in the Armed Forces is within reach.

So, if you are aiming to crack NDA 1 2026 in the first attempt, start your preparation today with Centurion Defence Academy and march towards your success with confidence.

Location: B-72, beside Phoenix Mall, opp. Police Chowki, Sector B, Bargawan, LDA Colony, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226005, India

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