NDA & CDS 1 2026 Exam English Cloze Test

The Cloze Test is one of the most important and scoring sections in the English paper of NDA and CDS examinations. It evaluates a candidate’s...

The Cloze Test is one of the most important and scoring sections in the English paper of NDA and CDS examinations. It evaluates a candidate’s combined ability in grammar, vocabulary, logical reasoning, and intermediate-level reading comprehension. Unlike direct grammar or vocabulary questions, a cloze test requires understanding the overall passage context before selecting appropriate words for the blanks.

The English Live Class for NDA & CDS 1 2026 – Live Batch 2 focused on equipping aspirants with the techniques and analytical skills necessary to confidently solve multiple choice questions (MCQs) from this topic.

Objective of the Live Class

The primary objectives of the session were to:

  • Strengthen grammar fundamentals required for passage-based questions
  • Improve contextual vocabulary application
  • Develop intermediate reading and comprehension skills
  • Teach systematic methods for solving cloze test MCQs
  • Enhance speed and accuracy under exam conditions

The session emphasised contextual understanding over isolated word selection.

Understanding Cloze Test Questions in NDA & CDS

In NDA & CDS exams, a cloze test typically consists of:

  • A short passage with multiple blanks
  • Four options provided for each blank
  • Selection of the most suitable word based on grammar and context

To answer correctly, candidates must ensure:

  • Grammatical accuracy
  • Logical consistency
  • Coherence with the overall theme of the passage

Each blank is interconnected with the meaning of the surrounding sentences.

Grammar Areas Applied in Cloze Test

The class revised key grammar concepts frequently tested in cloze passages:

A. Tenses

Maintaining consistency of tense throughout the passage.

B. Subject-Verb Agreement

Ensuring verbs agree correctly with their subjects.

C. Articles and Determiners

Correct usage of a, an, the, and quantifiers.

D. Prepositions

Selecting contextually correct prepositions.

E. Conjunctions and Connectors

Maintaining logical flow between sentences.

Grammar accuracy is essential because even a meaningful word becomes incorrect if it violates grammatical rules.

Vocabulary Application in Cloze Test

Vocabulary plays a crucial role in selecting the right option. The session focused on:

  • Contextual meaning of words
  • Synonyms and near-synonyms
  • Collocations
  • Tone and intent of the passage
  • Commonly confused words

Students were trained to identify the word that fits the overall idea and emotional tone of the passage.

Role of Reading & Comprehension Skills

Unlike single-sentence questions, cloze tests require:

  • Reading the entire passage first
  • Understanding the central theme
  • Identifying the writer’s purpose
  • Maintaining logical continuity

The live class emphasised that solving a cloze test is not about filling blanks individually, but about understanding the passage as a whole.

Approach Taught in the Live Class

Students were trained to follow a step-by-step strategy:

✔ Read the full passage before attempting blanks
✔ Identify the theme and tone
✔ Fill easy blanks first
✔ Check grammar consistency
✔ Ensure logical flow between sentences
✔ Re-read the passage after completing all blanks

This structured method improves both accuracy and confidence.

Common Mistakes Highlighted

The session discussed frequent errors such as:

  • Filling blanks without reading the full passage
  • Ignoring tense consistency
  • Choosing vocabulary based on familiarity
  • Overlooking connectors and transition words
  • Not rechecking the completed passage

Students were advised to verify coherence after completing all blanks.

Why Cloze Test Is a High-Scoring Topic

Cloze Test is considered scoring because:

  • Grammar rules are predictable
  • Vocabulary improves with practice
  • Logical thinking enhances performance
  • Regular reading strengthens comprehension

With proper preparation, candidates can attempt this section confidently.

Conclusion

The Cloze Test Live Class for NDA & CDS 1 2026 – Live Batch 2 provided aspirants with a comprehensive approach to solving passage-based MCQs effectively. By integrating grammar knowledge, vocabulary skills, and intermediate comprehension ability, students were trained to approach cloze tests systematically and accurately.

With consistent practice and disciplined reading habits, the Cloze Test can become a strong scoring area in the English section of NDA & CDS examinations.

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Anuradha Dey

Senior Lecturer, SSBCrackExams, M.A.(Psychology), M.A. English (Gold Medalist) from BHU; B.A. Hons from St. Xavier’s College (Kolkata). Poet, Writer & Translator. Certified Career Counselor. Knows Mandarin, German, English, Bengali & Hindi.