NDA II General Ability Test 2025: Complete Question Paper Analysis & Preparation Strategy

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Subject-wise Distribution

SubjectQuestionsPercentage
Science & Technology5051%
Geography1616.3%
History & Culture1212.2%
Economy66.1%
Miscellaneous & General Knowledge44.1%
International Relations & Global Affairs44.1%
Polity & Governance33.1%
Environment & Ecology22%
NA11%

Topic-wise Breakdown

SubjectTopicQuestions
Science & TechnologyBasic Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)46
GeographyWorld Physical Geography12
International Relations & Global AffairsInternational Organisations & Groupings4
History & CultureNational Movement (1857–1947)3
History & CultureModern India (Pre-1857)3
EconomyIndustry, Infrastructure & Investment3
Science & TechnologySpace & Defence Technology2
GeographyMaps & Locations2
Miscellaneous & General KnowledgeSports, Games & Awards2
History & CultureMedieval India2
History & CultureAncient India2
History & CultureCulture, Literature, Religion & Philosophy2
Environment & EcologyEnvironment Laws, Policies & Institutions (India)1
Polity & GovernanceLocal Government1
Miscellaneous & General KnowledgeImportant Days, Places & Events1

Mastering the NDA II General Ability Test 2025: A Strategic Analysis and Roadmap for Success

The National Defence Academy (NDA) entrance examination remains the most prestigious gateway for young aspirants dreaming of a career as commissioned officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Among its various components, the General Ability Test (GAT) is often the "make or break" section. In the NDA II 2025 cycle, the GAT paper presented a fascinating mix of traditional core subjects and a heavy tilt toward scientific temperament. As an expert mentor who has tracked UPSC patterns for over a decade, I can tell you that this paper wasn't just about testing memory; it was about testing the "Officer Like Qualities" (OLQs) of logic, observation, and mental agility.

The GAT paper consists of 150 questions in total, with the General Studies portion (which we are analyzing here) comprising 98 critical questions. With 4 marks awarded for every correct answer and a penalty of 1.33 for every wrong one, the stakes are incredibly high. This analysis is designed to go beyond the surface-level numbers to help you understand the "why" behind the questions and the "how" of your future preparation.

1. Introduction & Exam Overview

The NDA II 2025 General Ability Test was a masterclass in UPSC's evolving examination philosophy. While the English section remained a steady pillar, the General Studies section—consisting of 98 questions—showed a distinct preference for conceptual clarity over rote learning. The exam duration of 2.5 hours demands that a candidate process each question in less than a minute, including the time taken to bubble the OMR sheet.

Understanding this analysis is crucial because the UPSC does not repeat questions, but it definitely repeats "themes." By dissecting the 2025 paper, we can decode the examiner's mindset. This year, the focus shifted heavily toward Science & Technology, which accounted for more than half the paper. If you are an aspirant who neglected your Class 11 and 12 NCERTs, this paper would have been a wake-up call. This analysis will serve as your compass, ensuring that your hard work is directed toward the right North Star.

2. Subject-wise Deep Dive

Science & Technology (50 Questions | 51%)

Dominating over half the paper, Science remains the undisputed king of NDA. In 2025, 46 out of 50 questions were rooted in Basic Science (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology), while 2 questions focused on Space and Defence Technology. The level of questions ranged from application-based Physics (Optics, Electricity) to fundamental Biology (Cell structure, Human systems).

  • Recommended Books: NCERT Class 9th and 10th (Science) are your bibles. For Physics and Chemistry, supplement with select chapters from Class 11th and 12th (NCERT).
  • Standard Sources: Lucent’s General Science for quick revision and "Pathfinder" for NDA by Arihant for practice.
  • Common Mistakes: Ignoring the "Application" part. Don't just learn Ohm's Law; understand why your household bulbs are connected in parallel and not series.

Geography (16 Questions | 16.3%)

Geography saw a significant focus on World Physical Geography (12 questions), with a smaller emphasis on Maps and Locations. The questions moved away from simple "capital city" identification to complex atmospheric and geomorphic processes.

  • Recommended Books: NCERT Class 11 (Fundamentals of Physical Geography) and Class 12 (India: People and Economy). Certificate Physical and Human Geography by Goh Cheng Leong is essential for conceptual clarity on climates and landforms.
  • Standard Sources: Oxford Student Atlas for India is non-negotiable.
  • Common Mistakes: Memorizing facts without looking at a map. Geography is a visual subject; if you can't visualize the Mediterranean Sea's surrounding countries, you aren't studying it right.

History & Culture (12 Questions | 12.2%)

The distribution here was balanced between the National Movement (1857–1947) and Modern India (Pre-1857), with a slight touch of Medieval history. The UPSC is increasingly interested in the "social impact" of British policies rather than just dates of battles.

  • Recommended Books: A Brief History of Modern India by Spectrum (Rajiv Ahir) is the most concise resource. For Ancient and Medieval, the old NCERTs by RS Sharma and Satish Chandra are gold.
  • Standard Sources: Tamil Nadu State Board History books for Class 11 and 12 provide an excellent narrative flow.
  • Common Mistakes: Getting bogged down in dates. Focus on the "Cause and Effect" of historical events.

Economy (6 Questions | 6.1%)

Economy focused on Industry, Infrastructure, and Investment. The questions were contemporary, linking government schemes to economic principles.

  • Recommended Books: NCERT Class 11 (Indian Economic Development). For concepts, refer to Mrunal Patel’s notes or Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh (selective reading).
  • Standard Sources: The Union Budget highlights and the Economic Survey's "Macroeconomic Framework" statement.
  • Common Mistakes: Studying complex GDP formulas while ignoring basic terms like "Inflation" or "Repo Rate."

Polity & Governance (3 Questions | 3.1%)

Though the weightage was lower this year, Polity remains a high-accuracy area. Questions typically revolve around the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and the President’s powers.

  • Recommended Books: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth. It is the "Indo-Pak" of Polity books—everyone must have it.
  • Standard Sources: Our Constitution by Subhash Kashyap for a more narrative understanding.
  • Common Mistakes: Skipping the latest Constitutional Amendments.

3. Topic Trends & Pattern Analysis

The 2025 paper confirms a "Science-First" trend. UPSC is clearly looking for candidates with a strong analytical foundation. Physics questions were heavily slanted toward "Light" and "Electricity," which are standard NDA favorites. However, the emerging trend is the integration of International Relations (IR). With 4 questions on International Organisations and Groupings, the examiner expects you to know more than just the UN; you must know about the G20, BRICS, and QUAD.

Compared to the Civil Services (IAS) pattern, the NDA 2025 paper is more direct but equally demanding of conceptual depth. In IAS, you might get four statements to analyze; in NDA, you get one statement with four very close options. The examiner's mindset is clear: they want "Generalists" who have a "Specialist's" eye for detail. The shift toward World Physical Geography over Indian Geography suggests that the Academy wants cadets who understand global climate and terrain—essential for future military leaders.

4. Preparation Strategy

To conquer the NDA GAT, you need a balanced diet of subjects. I recommend a 50-30-20 time allocation: 50% for Science, 30% for Humanities (History, Geography, Polity), and 20% for Current Affairs and Miscellaneous GK.

Recommended Resources:

  • Polity: Laxmikanth is your primary source. Focus on the "Local Government" and "Emergency Provisions" chapters as they are frequently tested.
  • History: Use Bipin Chandra’s India’s Struggle for Independence for a deep dive into the National Movement. It helps in writing better essays in the SSB as well.
  • Geography: Stick to NCERTs but use Goh Cheng Leong for chapters on Weather and Climate. These are often tricky in the exam.
  • Economy: Don't read a 700-page book. Watch YouTube summaries of the Economic Survey and read the NCERT on Macroeconomics.
  • Environment: Shankar IAS Academy’s book is the industry standard. Focus on "National Parks," "Biosphere Reserves," and "Climate Change Conventions."
  • Current Affairs: Read The Hindu or The Indian Express daily. Use the Press Information Bureau (PIB) website to check for government-verified news on defence acquisitions.

How to use PYQs: Don't just solve them; analyze them. If a question is asked about the 'Right to Privacy,' look up which Supreme Court case led to it. UPSC often pivots around the same topic for 2-3 years.

5. Answer Elimination Techniques

In a 98-question paper, you will likely know 50 answers for sure. The remaining 48 require strategy.

  • The Extreme Word Rule: In statement-based questions, words like "Only," "Never," "Always," or "All" are often (but not always) red flags. Use them to eliminate options.
  • The "Odd One Out": In Science MCQs, if three units belong to the same physical quantity and one doesn't, that one is usually the answer or the one to eliminate.
  • Match the Following: These are "Gift Questions." Usually, finding just one correct pair allows you to eliminate three out of four options. Start with the pair you are 100% sure about.
  • Calculated Risk: If you can eliminate two options, you must take the leap. The probability of being right is 50%, which is mathematically in your favor over the long run.

6. Current Affairs Integration

Current affairs in 2025 were not "stand-alone." They were "Static-Linked." For example, if there was a question on an International Organization, it was likely because that organization held a summit recently. This is called the "Static-Dynamic Linkage."

To build a daily habit:

  1. Spend 45 minutes on the newspaper.
  2. Focus on the "Science & Tech" page (usually Sundays) and the "World" page.
  3. Use monthly magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan or Yojana for in-depth analysis of government schemes.
  4. Maintain a separate "Defence Diary" for news related to DRDO, ISRO, and joint military exercises.

7. Smart Preparation Tips

6-Month Plan: Spend the first 3 months finishing NCERTs. The next 2 months should be for standard reference books (Laxmikanth, Spectrum). The final month is for mocks and revision.
1-Year Plan: You have the luxury of reading the newspaper thoroughly and building a strong foundation in Science. Focus on Class 11-12 Physics and Chemistry in detail.

Revision Technique: Use the 1-7-30 rule. Revise what you learned today after 1 day, 7 days, and 30 days. For Science formulas, create a "Formula Wall" in your room.

Mock Test Strategy: Join a reputed test series. When you analyze a mock, don't just look at the score. Look at "Silly Mistakes" vs "Lack of Knowledge." If you are losing marks to silly mistakes, you need more practice; if it's lack of knowledge, you need more reading.

8. Key Takeaways & Action Items

The NDA II 2025 GAT paper was a clear indicator that the UPSC values a scientific mind. Here is your immediate action plan:

  • Prioritize Science: You cannot clear this paper without a 90% accuracy rate in Physics and Chemistry.
  • Geography is the Second Pillar: Focus on World Physical Geography and Mapping.
  • The Big 5 Books: 1. NCERT Science (9th-12th) 2. M. Laxmikanth (Polity) 3. Spectrum (Modern History) 4. Goh Cheng Leong (Geography) 5. Oxford Student Atlas
  • Next Steps: Today, pick up the 2025 PYQ paper and attempt it without any preparation. This will give you your "Base Score." Your goal is to increase this by 150 marks through systematic study.

Remember, the NDA exam is not just a test of your knowledge; it is a test of your character and your ability to handle pressure. Stay disciplined, keep your physical fitness in check alongside your studies, and approach every subject with the curiosity of a leader. The uniform is not just a piece of cloth; it is earned through every page you turn and every MCQ you solve. Good luck!

Complete Question Index - NDA II General Ability Test 2025

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

Q#SubjectPractice Link
51Science & TechnologySolve Question 51
52Science & TechnologySolve Question 52
53NASolve Question 53
54Science & TechnologySolve Question 54
55Science & TechnologySolve Question 55
56Science & TechnologySolve Question 56
57Science & TechnologySolve Question 57
58Science & TechnologySolve Question 58
59Science & TechnologySolve Question 59
60Science & TechnologySolve Question 60
61Science & TechnologySolve Question 61
62Science & TechnologySolve Question 62
63Science & TechnologySolve Question 63
64Science & TechnologySolve Question 64
65Science & TechnologySolve Question 65
66Science & TechnologySolve Question 66
67Science & TechnologySolve Question 67
68Science & TechnologySolve Question 68
69Science & TechnologySolve Question 69
70Science & TechnologySolve Question 70
71Science & TechnologySolve Question 71
72Science & TechnologySolve Question 72
73Science & TechnologySolve Question 73
74Science & TechnologySolve Question 74
75Science & TechnologySolve Question 75
76History & CultureSolve Question 76
77History & CultureSolve Question 77
78History & CultureSolve Question 78
79History & CultureSolve Question 79
80History & CultureSolve Question 80
81History & CultureSolve Question 81
82History & CultureSolve Question 82
83History & CultureSolve Question 83
84International Relations & Global AffairsSolve Question 84
85History & CultureSolve Question 85
86History & CultureSolve Question 86
87History & CultureSolve Question 87
88History & CultureSolve Question 88
89EconomySolve Question 89
90EconomySolve Question 90
91International Relations & Global AffairsSolve Question 91
92Science & TechnologySolve Question 92
93Polity & GovernanceSolve Question 93
94International Relations & Global AffairsSolve Question 94
95Polity & GovernanceSolve Question 95
96Science & TechnologySolve Question 96
97Science & TechnologySolve Question 97
98Science & TechnologySolve Question 98
99Science & TechnologySolve Question 99
100Science & TechnologySolve Question 100
101Science & TechnologySolve Question 101
102Science & TechnologySolve Question 102
103Science & TechnologySolve Question 103
104Science & TechnologySolve Question 104
105Science & TechnologySolve Question 105
106Science & TechnologySolve Question 106
107Science & TechnologySolve Question 107
108Science & TechnologySolve Question 108
109Science & TechnologySolve Question 109
110Science & TechnologySolve Question 110
111GeographySolve Question 111
112Science & TechnologySolve Question 112
113GeographySolve Question 113
114GeographySolve Question 114
115GeographySolve Question 115
116GeographySolve Question 116
117GeographySolve Question 117
118GeographySolve Question 118
119GeographySolve Question 119
120GeographySolve Question 120
121GeographySolve Question 121
122GeographySolve Question 122
123GeographySolve Question 123
124GeographySolve Question 124
125GeographySolve Question 125
127EconomySolve Question 127
129EconomySolve Question 129
130GeographySolve Question 130
131Miscellaneous & General KnowledgeSolve Question 131
132International Relations & Global AffairsSolve Question 132
133Science & TechnologySolve Question 133
134Science & TechnologySolve Question 134
135Science & TechnologySolve Question 135
136Science & TechnologySolve Question 136
137Science & TechnologySolve Question 137
138Science & TechnologySolve Question 138
139Science & TechnologySolve Question 139
140Science & TechnologySolve Question 140
141Miscellaneous & General KnowledgeSolve Question 141
142Environment & EcologySolve Question 142
143EconomySolve Question 143
144EconomySolve Question 144
145Polity & GovernanceSolve Question 145
146GeographySolve Question 146
147Miscellaneous & General KnowledgeSolve Question 147
148Environment & EcologySolve Question 148
149Miscellaneous & General KnowledgeSolve Question 149
150Science & TechnologySolve Question 150

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