CDS II General Knowledge 2007: Complete Question Paper Analysis & Preparation Strategy

Subject-wise Distribution

SubjectQuestionsPercentage
Science & Technology3630%
History & Culture2924.2%
Geography1613.3%
Polity & Governance1210%
Economy108.3%
Miscellaneous & General Knowledge65%
International Relations & Global Affairs54.2%
Environment & Ecology54.2%
CUL10.8%

Topic-wise Breakdown

SubjectTopicQuestions
Science & TechnologyBasic Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)29
History & CultureNational Movement (1857–1947)10
GeographyMaps & Locations8
History & CultureMedieval India7
Science & TechnologyBiotechnology & Health5
International Relations & Global AffairsInternational Organisations & Groupings5
Polity & GovernanceConstitutional & Statutory Bodies5
EconomyIndustry, Infrastructure & Investment5
Miscellaneous & General KnowledgeSports, Games & Awards4
GeographyWorld Physical Geography4
History & CultureCulture, Literature, Religion & Philosophy4
EconomyGovernment Finance & Budget3
History & CultureModern India (Pre-1857)3
Polity & GovernanceUnion Executive2
Environment & EcologyEnvironment Laws, Policies & Institutions (India)2

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), remains one of the most prestigious gateways for those aspiring to don the uniform as commissioned officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Among its three papers, the General Knowledge (GK) paper is often the "make or break" component. Analyzing the CDS II 2007 General Knowledge paper provides us with a fascinating window into the evolution of UPSC’s testing methodology. While the paper is more than a decade old, the DNA of the questions—the way they bridge static concepts with conceptual depth—remains the blueprint for modern-day preparation.

The CDS II 2007 GK paper consisted of 120 questions, each designed to test the breadth and depth of a candidate’s awareness. With a duration of 120 minutes, aspirants were required to maintain a pace of one minute per question, factoring in the time needed for OMR shading and the psychological pressure of negative marking (one-third of the marks assigned to that question). Understanding this specific paper is crucial because it marked a shift toward a more "application-based" approach in Science and a "narrative-based" approach in History, moving away from rote memorization. For a serious aspirant, this analysis is not just a history lesson; it is a strategic roadmap to decoding the examiner’s mindset.

2. Subject-wise Deep Dive

Science & Technology (36 Questions, 30%)

Dominating nearly one-third of the paper, Science & Technology was the undisputed king of CDS II 2007. The focus was heavily weighted toward "Basic Science" (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology), which accounted for 29 out of the 36 questions. Biology questions often leaned toward human physiology and health, while Physics focused on optics, mechanics, and electricity. Chemistry questions frequently touched upon everyday applications, such as the composition of alloys or chemical reactions in daily life.

  • Recommended Books: NCERT Class IX and X (Science) are the holy grails. For deeper conceptual clarity in Biology, refer to selected chapters of Class XI and XII NCERT.
  • Standard Sources: Lucent’s General Science for quick factual revision and the "Science Reporter" magazine for contemporary developments.
  • Common Mistakes: Many candidates ignore the "Applied" aspect of science. In 2007, questions weren't just about definitions; they were about why a phenomenon happens. Avoid skipping the diagrams and "box items" in NCERTs.

History & Culture (29 Questions, 24.2%)

History followed closely, with a significant emphasis on the National Movement (1857–1947), which contributed 10 questions. Medieval India also saw a surprising spike with 7 questions, focusing on administrative structures and cultural contributions of the Delhi Sultanate and Mughals. Ancient India and Culture remained peripheral but present.

  • Recommended Books: "A Brief History of Modern India" by Spectrum (Rajiv Ahir) for the National Movement. For Medieval India, Satish Chandra’s NCERT is sufficient.
  • Standard Sources: Tamil Nadu State Board Class XI and XII History textbooks are excellent for a chronological understanding that UPSC favors.
  • Common Mistakes: Aspirants often get bogged down in dates. UPSC 2007 showed that the focus is on "Cause and Effect"—why a movement started or the impact of a specific British policy.

Geography (16 Questions, 13.3%)

Geography in 2007 was highly visual and spatial. Maps and Locations dominated with 8 questions, testing the candidate's mental map of India and the world. Physical Geography followed, focusing on atmospheric layers, ocean currents, and landforms.

  • Recommended Books: NCERT Class XI "Fundamentals of Physical Geography" and Class XII "India: People and Economy."
  • Standard Sources: Certificate Physical and Human Geography by Goh Cheng Leong is indispensable for conceptual clarity on climate and landforms.
  • Common Mistakes: Neglecting the Atlas. Geography cannot be learned by reading alone; it must be visualized. Aspirants often fail to correlate current affairs (like a conflict zone) with its geographical coordinates.

Polity & Governance (12 Questions, 10%)

The 2007 paper focused heavily on Constitutional and Statutory Bodies. Questions were designed to test the understanding of powers, tenures, and the relationship between different branches of government.

  • Recommended Books: "Indian Polity" by M. Laxmikanth is the gold standard. No other book is required if you master this.
  • Standard Sources: "Our Constitution" by Subhash Kashyap for a more narrative understanding of how the Indian democratic machine functions.
  • Common Mistakes: Memorizing Articles without understanding the underlying principle. UPSC often asks "Which of the following is NOT a power of X," requiring a holistic understanding rather than just a list of facts.

Economy (10 Questions, 8.3%)

Economy focused on the "Secondary Sector"—Industry, Infrastructure, and Investment. There was a clear trend toward testing the candidate's knowledge of India’s developmental path and the Five-Year Plans (which were still active and relevant in 2007).

  • Recommended Books: Indian Economic Development (NCERT Class XI) and Ramesh Singh’s "Indian Economy" for reference.
  • Common Mistakes: Over-focusing on complex mathematical formulas. CDS Economy is about "General Awareness" of economic trends, inflation, and budgetary terms.

3. Topic Trends & Pattern Analysis

The CDS II 2007 paper revealed several critical trends that still resonate today. Firstly, the dominance of the National Movement in History suggests that the examiner views the struggle for independence as the most vital part of a future officer's historical knowledge. It isn't just about facts; it's about the values of leadership and resilience.

Secondly, the Science-heavy nature of the paper (30%) indicates that UPSC expects a "Scientific Temperament." In 2007, there was a noticeable shift toward Biotechnology and Health (5 questions). This was a period when global awareness of viral diseases and genetic engineering was rising, and the paper reflected this by testing candidates on vaccines and cellular biology.

Thirdly, the Geography-Map correlation. With 50% of Geography questions being map-based, it was clear that the examiner wanted to test "spatial intelligence." For a military officer, reading a map is a core skill; the CDS paper serves as a preliminary test of that aptitude. The "International Organisations" focus in the Global Affairs section (5 questions) also showed a trend toward testing India’s place in the world, specifically through the lens of the UN, ASEAN, and SAARC.

The examiner’s mindset in 2007 was geared toward "The Generalist." They weren't looking for a historian or a physicist; they were looking for someone who could connect the dots between a scientific principle, a historical precedent, and a current global event.

4. Preparation Strategy

To tackle a paper of this complexity, your preparation must be segmented yet integrated. Here is the recommended subject-wise time allocation and resource list:

Subject-wise Allocation (For a 6-month cycle):

  • Science (25% time): Dedicate the first two months to NCERTs. Science has the highest ROI (Return on Investment) because the syllabus is static and the questions are direct.
  • History (20% time): Focus on Modern History. Use a timeline-based approach. Create a "Wall of Dates" but focus your reading on the "Why."
  • Polity (15% time): Laxmikanth should be read cover-to-cover at least three times. Focus on the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and Parliament.
  • Geography (15% time): Spend 30 minutes every day with an Oxford Student Atlas. Trace rivers, mountain ranges, and state capitals.
  • Economy & Environment (15% time): Focus on terms (Repo rate, GDP, Biodiversity hotspots). Use Shankar IAS for Environment basics.
  • Current Affairs (10% time): This is a daily habit, not a monthly task.

Essential Resources:

  • Polity: M. Laxmikanth is non-negotiable. Supplement with PRS Legislative Research website for new bills.
  • History: Bipin Chandra’s "India’s Struggle for Independence" for narrative depth; Spectrum for factual density.
  • Geography: NCERT Class XI & XII + G.C. Leong. Use YouTube channels like "PMF IAS" for visualizing complex physical geography concepts.
  • Economy: Mrunal.org (the older archives are gold for basics) and the latest Economic Survey (Summary).
  • Current Affairs: "The Hindu" or "Indian Express." For CDS, the "Defence" section of the news is vital—know your missiles, exercises, and new inductions.

How to use PYQs: Don't just solve the CDS II 2007 paper. Analyze the options. If a question asks about the Quit India Movement and mentions the Cripps Mission in the options, go back and read about the Cripps Mission. UPSC often picks options from previous years to form the questions of the future.

5. Answer Elimination Techniques

In a 120-question paper, you will likely only be 100% sure of about 40–50 questions. The rest is won through strategic elimination. Here is how to approach it:

The "Extreme Words" Trap

In statement-based questions, words like "Only," "Always," "Never," and "All" are often red flags. For example, a statement saying "The President always acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers" might be technically true after the 42nd Amendment, but in many constitutional contexts, there are discretionary powers. Be wary of absolutes.

Match the Following (The Anchor Method)

In "Match the Following" questions, don't try to match all four. Find the one you are 100% sure of. Often, matching just one item correctly will eliminate two or three incorrect options in the code list. This is the most efficient way to save time.

The 50-50 Rule

If you can eliminate two options, you must take the risk. Mathematically, over 10 such questions, even if you get 5 right and 5 wrong, you end up with a net positive score. Never skip a question where you have narrowed it down to two choices.

Statement-Based Strategy (1, 2, and 3)

When faced with "Which of the statements given above is/are correct?", look for the "Definite False." If you find one statement that is definitely wrong, you can often eliminate three out of four options immediately. This is faster than trying to prove every statement is correct.

6. Current Affairs Integration

In the CDS II 2007 paper, Current Affairs wasn't just a separate section; it was woven into static topics. For instance, questions on International Organisations (5 questions) were likely triggered by summits or treaties happening at that time. To master this integration:

  • The Static-Dynamic Link: If you read about a cyclone in the news, immediately go to your Geography book and read how cyclones are formed (static). This is how UPSC asks questions.
  • Monthly Magazines: While daily newspapers are for "building a perspective," monthly magazines like "Pratiyogita Darpan" or "Vajiram & Ravi Recitals" are for "fact-collecting."
  • Government Sources: PIB (Press Information Bureau) is the most authentic source for government schemes. For Economy, the "Yojana" and "Kurukshetra" magazines provide deep insights into rural and industrial development.
  • Defence Specifics: For CDS, you must maintain a separate notebook for Defense Current Affairs. Track joint military exercises (e.g., Indra, Hand-in-Hand), new submarine commissions, and gallantry awards.

7. Smart Preparation Tips

Preparation is a marathon, not a sprint. Whether you have six months or a year, the structure of your study matters more than the hours.

The Revision Cycle

Use the 1-7-30 rule. Revise what you learned today after 24 hours, then after 7 days, and finally after 30 days. Without this, you will forget 80% of the factual data (like History dates or Science formulas) by the time you reach the exam hall.

Mock Test Analysis

Don't just look at your score. Analyze why you got a question wrong. Was it a "Silly Mistake" (misreading the question), a "Conceptual Gap" (not knowing the topic), or a "Guessing Error" (wrong elimination)? Maintain a "Mistake Log" and review it before every new mock test.

Test Series Recommendations

Start with sectional tests (only Science, only Polity) to build confidence. In the last two months, switch to full-length mocks. Ensure you take at least 10–15 full-length tests in an exam-like environment (10 AM to 12 PM) to condition your brain for peak performance during those hours.

8. Key Takeaways & Action Items

The CDS II 2007 General Knowledge paper serves as a reminder that the UPSC rewards clarity over quantity. The heavy weightage on Science and Modern History is a perennial trend that every aspirant must respect. If you master these two, you are already halfway to the cutoff.

Summary of Priority Topics:

  • Science: Human Health, Diseases, Optics, and Periodic Table trends.
  • History: Gandhian Era (1915–1947), Mughal Administration, and Socio-Religious Reform Movements.
  • Polity: Fundamental Rights, Preamble, and Constitutional Bodies (CAG, Election Commission).
  • Geography: Indian River Systems, Climate zones, and Map-pointing of major sea ports and capitals.

Top 5 Books to Prioritize:

  1. Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth
  2. Brief History of Modern India by Spectrum
  3. NCERT Science (Class IX & X)
  4. Certificate Physical & Human Geography by G.C. Leong
  5. Oxford Student Atlas

Immediate Next Step: Download the CDS II 2007 PYQ and attempt the Science and History sections without any preparation. This will give you a "Baseline" of your natural strengths and weaknesses. From there, use the strategy outlined above to build your fortress of knowledge. Success in CDS is not about knowing everything; it’s about knowing what the examiner expects and delivering it with precision.

Complete Question Index - CDS II General Knowledge 2007

Click on any question number to practice and view detailed explanation:

Q#SubjectPractice Link
1GeographySolve Question 1
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2Science & TechnologySolve Question 2
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3History & CultureSolve Question 3
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