One of the most significant and scoring items in the UPSC-conducted NDA (National Defence Academy) written test is the General Ability Test (GAT). It accounts for 600 of the 900 total points, therefore your performance on the GAT will have a big impact on your selection.
The leading defense teaching facility in Mohali, NCA Academy, has provided this thorough guide, which will break down:
What is in NDA GAT?
Subject-by-subject GAT syllabus
How to get ready for every segment
Astute study advice
What is GAT in NDA?
In NDA, what is GAT?
There are two papers on the NDA written exam:
300 points in mathematics
General Ability Test (GAT): 600 points
There are two primary sections to GAT:
English: 200 points
400 points for general knowledge (GK)
Duration: 2.5 hours Type: MCQs with an objective Yes, there will be a one-third deduction for each incorrect response.
Subject-Wise GAT Syllabus
Let’s take a closer look at each GAT component.
English (200 marks) Part A
This portion assesses your general language proficiency as well as your vocabulary, grammar, and reading comprehension.
📌 Important Subjects:
- Finding Mistakes
- Sentence Structure
- Antonyms and Synonyms
- Phrases and Idioms
- Complete the Blanks
- Enhancement of Sentences
- UnderstandingTexts
- Test of Cloze
Part B: General Knowledge (400 Marks)
This section includes questions from:
Subject | Approx. No. of Questions |
Physics | 23–25 |
Chemistry | 15–17 |
General Science | 10–12 |
History | 15–18 |
Geography | 15–18 |
Current Affairs | 10–12
|
Topics in Physics: Motion and Motion Laws
Power, Work, and Energy
Light, Sound, Electricity, and Magnetism
Thermodynamics and Heat
The force of gravity
Topics in Chemistry: Chemical Reactions
Bases, Salts, and Acids
Non-metals and Metals
Periodic Table of Atomic Structure in General Science (Biology)
Topics: Diseases and Prevention of Human Body Systems
Topics covered in history: ancient and medieval India
Indian History in the Present (Freedom Movement)
National Leaders and Events in India
French Revolution and World Wars (Basic)
Geography Topics: The Layers and Structure of the Earth
Weather and Climate
Indian Crops, Rivers, and Soils
Global Geography: Capitals, Continents, and Natural Resources
Topics of Current Affairs: Defense Training
Significant Days
Athletic Competitions
Government Programs
Global Summits
Daily Time Table for GAT (Recommended by NCA)
Time Slot | Activity |
6:00 AM | Newspaper reading (30 mins) |
10:00 AM | English grammar + vocab (1 hr) |
12:00 PM | Physics / Chemistry concepts |
2:00 PM | GK – History / Geography |
5:00 PM | Current Affairs quiz + notes |
7:00 PM | Mock Test (alternate days) |
Top Preparation Tips from NCA Academy
- Start Early – GAT is huge. Begin your preparation at least 3 months in advance.
- Make Topic-wise Notes – Use colored charts and sticky notes.
- Focus on English Daily – It’s scoring and boosts overall GAT score.
- Practice Previous Year Papers – UPSC often repeats concepts.
- Give Mock Tests Every Sunday – Analyze your weak areas.
- Stay Updated – Read news from reliable sources daily.
