Last Week Preparation Strategy for NDA: The NDA 2025 exam is just around the corner. However, with only a few days left, candidates’ focus must be on quick revision rather than starting anything new. This is a crucial time for them. They should polish their strengths, avoid silly mistakes, and go in with a clear strategy. 

Whether you’re appearing for the first time or repeating, your performance in this last week can make all the difference. Here, we will have shared last week’s preparation strategy for NDA to help candidates confidently approach the exam.

Last Week Preparation Strategy for NDA and Tips

With the NDA 1 2025 examination scheduled on 13th April 2025, candidates have entered the final and most crucial phase of their preparation. At this point, it’s less about learning something new and more about consolidating what has already been studied. Smart planning, time management, and confidence play a much larger role than cramming fresh topics.

Revise from the Right Sources Only

In the final week, don’t overload yourself with too many resources. Stick to your notes, NCERTs, and previously solved papers.

• Focus on key formulas and concepts in Maths.
• Revise Science, Polity, and Geography NCERT summaries for GAT.
• Go through your GK short notes and fact-based questions.

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Focus on Expected and Previous Year Questions

Based on past trends, UPSC often repeats or tweaks previous year’s questions. So practice those thoroughly:

• Solve at least the last 10 years of NDA question papers.
• Refer to the expected question series or test series based on UPSC’s evolving trend.
• Pay attention to topics that are frequently repeated like Constitution, Physics formulas, and Current Affairs.

Take Timed Full-Length Mock Tests

Simulate the actual exam environment by taking full-length mock tests with a timer:

• Sit in a quiet room, avoid distractions, and attempt both papers back-to-back.
• Practice time management – ideally 1 min per Maths question and 1.5 mins per GAT question.
• After every test, analyze your mistakes instead of rushing to the next one.

Strengthen Time Management Strategy

You can’t afford to spend too much time on one question. In the final week:

• Practice quick calculations and mental math.
• Try skipping and marking difficult questions to revisit later.
• Prioritise sections you are strong at first to boost confidence.
  

Avoid Negative Marking 

Candidates must avoid Negative Marking in NDA. If you are unsure, then you should avoid random guessing. A 1/3rd negative marking can hurt your score badly. Follow this:

• Attempt only if you’re at least 70–80% sure.
• Use the elimination technique where possible.
• Don’t let panic lead to wild guessing – that’s a score killer.

Give Equal Weightage to GAT and Maths

GAT is often underestimated, but it carries 600 marks:

• Focus on English grammar rules, idioms, vocabulary, and comprehension.
• Practice History, Geography, and Science through MCQs.
• Read the newspaper headlines and revise current affairs from the last 6 months.

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Do’s and Don’ts for Last Week of NDA Preparation

As the NDA 2025 exam is approaching, it’s crucial to follow a focused, disciplined, and strategic approach. Do not make the mistake of panicking or trying to cover everything in the last few days. Instead, do smart revisions, maintain confidence, and avoid careless errors.

Here’s a quick list of practical Do’s and Don’ts for your final week preparation effectively:

What To Do

• Focus on your strengths and revise the subjects or topics you’re most comfortable with.
• Stick to trusted sources like your notes, NCERTs, and previous year question papers.
• Practice at least one mock paper daily to simulate exam pressure and improve speed.
• Set a fixed routine and get 7–8 hours of sleep to keep your mind sharp.
• Revise formulas, English grammar rules, and current affairs using flashcards or short notes.

What Not To Do

• Don’t start new topics or refer to new books at this stage.
• Don’t attempt mock tests without analyzing your mistakes.
• Don’t study non-stop—take breaks to prevent burnout.
• Don’t rely on guesswork during practice or on the exam day.
• Don’t ignore time management during revision or while solving full papers.

In this last week, your goal is not to learn everything, but to revise smartly, stay calm, and trust your preparation

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