Candidates preparing for the UPSC CDS (I) 2026 examination must clearly understand the latest exam pattern and subject-wise syllabus.
The CDS syllabus is officially released by UPSC and includes English, General Knowledge, and Elementary Mathematics.
In this article, we have explained the complete UPSC CDS (I) 2026 syllabus in simple language, along with exam pattern and preparation tips.
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📝 Exam Pattern
| Academy | Paper | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| IMA / INA / AFA | English | 2 hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 2 hours | 100 | |
| Elementary Mathematics | 2 hours | 100 | |
| OTA (Men & Women) | English | 2 hours | 100 |
| General Knowledge | 2 hours | 100 |
👉 Elementary Mathematics is not applicable for OTA candidates.
Additional Details
- Type of Questions: Multiple‑Choice (MCQs)
- Negative Marking: 1/3rd mark deducted for each incorrect answer.
📘 1. English Syllabus
The English paper tests basic understanding of the language and includes:
Topics Covered
- Spotting Errors
- Sentence Improvement
- Fill in the Blanks / Cloze Test
- Synonyms & Antonyms
- Idioms & Phrases
- Reading Comprehension
- Para Jumbles & Ordering of Sentences
- Vocabulary based questions
🌍 2. General Knowledge Syllabus
The General Knowledge paper covers a wide range of topics to assess awareness and general understanding:
Main Areas
- Current Affairs: National & International events
- History: Ancient, Medieval & Modern Indian history
- Geography: India & World
- Indian Polity & Constitution
- Economics: Basics & National developments
- Science & Technology: Everyday science and modern developments
- Environment, Ecology, Sports, Awards, Defence
➗ 3. Elementary Mathematics Syllabus
This paper is required only for candidates applying to IMA, INA and AFA.
Topics Covered
📊 Arithmetic
- Percentages, Profit & Loss
- Ratio & Proportion
- Time & Work, Time & Distance
- Simple & Compound Interest
🔢 Algebra
- Basic algebraic identities
- Linear & Quadratic Equations
- Inequalities
📐 Geometry & Mensuration
- Triangles, Circles & Polygons
- Areas & Volumes
- Coordinate Geometry basics
📏 Number System
- LCM, HCF
- Divisibility
- Sequence & Series
📐 Trigonometry
- Trig ratios
- Heights & Distances
📊 Statistics
- Mean, Median, Mode
- Data Interpretation basics
How to Prepare for UPSC CDS (I) 2026 Syllabus?
- Focus daily on English comprehension & vocabulary
- Practice Maths formulas and previous year questions
- Read current affairs for General Knowledge
- Attempt mock tests regularly
📌 Important Notes for Aspirants
✔ The CDS syllabus remains uniform across all cycles and is published officially by UPSC.
✔ Candidates should refer to the official UPSC notification for any special instructions or clarifications.
📥 Download & Official Reference
Candidates can always download the official CDS‑I 2026 Notification PDF from the UPSC website when available. The notification contains the exact syllabus wording, exam scheme, eligibility rules, and instructions.
Important Links
- Official Notification PDF : Official Notification Pdf
- Apply Online: ONLINE APPLY
- Full Details
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