The UPSC CDS 2023 Exam holds a wide range of syllabi for which the candidates will require the best preparation books. As per the UPSC CDS 2023 Exam Pattern, the exam is divided into three major sections.
- English
- Elementary Mathematics
- General Knowledge
The written test conducted for Indian Naval Academy, Indian Military Academy, and Indian Air Force Academy comprises 3 sections, English, Elementary Mathematics, and General Knowledge. While the candidates applying for the Officers Training Academy will have to prepare for 2 sections, English and General Knowledge.
UPSC CDS 2023 Exam (Section-Wise) Preparation Books
We have included the best preparation books for each section that will help the candidates in covering the overall UPSC CDS 2023 Exam Syllabus. These books are recommended by experts and toppers and will help the candidates in understanding each concept and topic relevant to the exam.
Preparation Books – English
This section will cover the important aspects of the English Language. Candidates will have to upgrade their Vocabulary and Grammatical skills with the help of preparation books provided in the table below.
| Books Name | Author |
| High School Grammar and Composition | Wren and Martin |
| Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis |
| Objective General English | S.P. Bakshi |
Preparation Books – Elementary Mathematics
This section will assess the candidate’s arithmetic capabilities and calculative skills. Candidates are advised to focus on core concepts of Mathematics and should start their preparation with the help of books provided in the table below.
| Books Name | Author |
| Mathematics for CDS | R.S Aggarwal |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams | R.S Aggarwal |
| Pathfinder for CDS | Arihant Publications |
Preparation Books – General Knowledge
This section will consist of various questions related to the events happening around the world. Candidates are advised to keep themselves aligned with the events related to Current Affairs, Sports, Geography, History, and more. Candidates can prepare with the help of the best preparation books provided in the table below.
| Books Name | Author |
| General Awareness | Manohar Pandey |
| Manorama Year Book | Philip Mathew |
| Pratiyogita Darpan | Pratiyogita Team |
| Newspapers | The Hindu, The Indian Express, and The Economic Times |
UPSC CDS 2023 Exam Preparation Books FAQs
Candidates must check the best preparation books given for each section in the article above.
Candidates must consider Quantitative Aptitude by R.S Aggarwal.
Candidates should focus on basic concepts at the initial stage of preparation.
Candidates can download the pdf version of books online. Candidates can also purchase books from various online sources.
Candidates should analyze their weak and strong areas and should prepare accordingly.
Does taking the mock test matter more than just reading the CDS books?
Books help candidates to clear the concepts. After completing the chapters, candidates must attempt mock tests.
How should I study for the CDS GK portion?
Reading newspapers and magazines will help candidates prepare for the CDS exam’s GK part. Candidates must stay informed about current events.
Can I prepare for CDS in six months?
With six months of preparation, many candidates have passed the CDS exam. This is based on how diligently test-takers prepare.
How should I prepare for the CDS exam’s English section?
Candidates can review the fundamental grammatical and vocabulary principles in order to prepare for the CDS exam’s English component.
Can I use other books to practice math?
Yes. You can also practice math using other resources like books. Several specialists and students alike highly recommend the books on the list that were previously mentioned.