The CDS General Knowledge Paper: An Interpretation
There are 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) on the 100-mark GK paper in CDS, which must be completed in two hours. It assesses your knowledge of:
Not moving General Knowledge (knowledge and facts)
Current Events
Technology and Science
India’s Economy and Politics
History and Geography
When properly prepared, the GK paper is considered to score well because the questions are primarily straightforward and factual.
Top Topics to Concentrate on for CDS General Knowledge
1. General Awareness and Current Events Weight: about 20–25%
One of the most significant and lively parts of the GK paper is this one.
Why Is It Important?
Recent national and international events, government initiatives, awards, sports, and scientific advancements are all covered by current affairs, which is a topic that is commonly asked in CDS.
How Can I Get Ready?
Examine daily publications such as The Indian Express or The Hindu.
Keep up with monthly summaries of current events from reliable sources.
Follow international interactions, government policy, and news pertaining to military.
Important Topics to Discuss:
Important government initiatives (like Swachh Bharat and Digital India)
Updates on India’s defense
Summits and global institutions (UN, G20, SCO) Awards (sports, Bharat Ratna, Nobel Prize)
Sports records and events.
2. History of IndiaIndia Weight: about 15–25%
If prepared properly, history is a scoring area and a static GK topic.
Areas of Focus:
Ancient India: Mauryas, Guptas, Vedic era, and Harappan Civilization
Medieval India: Mughals, Bhakti, Sufi, and Delhi Sultanate
Contemporary India: British domination, the 1857 Rebellion, the fight for independence, and significant figures (Gandhi, Nehru, Bhagat Singh)
Indian National Movement and the Drafting of the Constitution
Advice for Preparation:
NCERT history textbooks for grades 6–12 should be used as primary materials.
Take brief notes on significant occasions, dates, and figures.
To identify patterns, practice the CDS history questions from prior years.
3. Geographical
Weight: about 10–15%
The physical, political, and economic geography of India and the world are typically covered in geography questions.
Important Subjects:
Physical attributes: Climate, rivers, plateaus, and mountains
Indian geography: States, major cities, and landmarks
Global geography: continents, seas, powerful nations, and significant rivers
Environmental concerns and natural resources
Economic geography: Minerals, industry, and agriculture
How to Get Ready:
For concepts, use the NCERT Geography textbooks for Classes 6–12.
For visual learning and memorizing, use maps.
Practice recognizing significant places and information.
Keep abreast on environmental concerns, such as climate change.
