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ALL About NDA Exam Pattern 2024

ALL About NDA Exam Pattern 2024 (2)

Table of Contents

BEST NDA COACHING IN DEHRADUN

Introduction

NDA exam pattern for 2024 consists of two papers General Ability test (GAT) and Mathematics, you get 2.5 hours for each exam. You should Understand the exam pattern, before applying for any exam. This will you prepare for the exam and you can increase your chance of success. In this blog we have provided you NDA exam pattern, you can also download free NDA exam syllabus pdf this will help you understand entire NDA exam structure so you can prepare accordingly.

UPSC conducts NDA exam twice a year. This NDA exam pattern guide will help you understand NDA written exam syllabus, marking scheme and SSB interview pattern.

NDA Exam Pattern 2024

By understanding NDA exam pattern you will get a clear idea how to prepare for the exam, so you can create a study schedule based on it. NDA exam is divided into two parts

Part 1: Written Exam – General Ability test (GAT) and Mathematics

Part 2: SSB Interview

A complete understanding of NDA exam will increase your chance to succeed.

NDA Exam Pattern: Overview

A Quick overview of NDA Written Exam:

Particulars

Details

Exam Mode

 Offline

Papers in NDA Exam

1.Mathematics

2. General Ability Test

Total Marks

1.Mathematics – 300 marks

2. General Ability Test – 600 marks

Total Questions

1.Mathematics – 120 question

2. General Ability Test – 150 question

Negative Marking

1.Mathematics – 0.83 marks

2.General Ability Test – 1.33 marks

Exam Duration

2.5 hours (for each section)

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NDA Written Exam Pattern

Written exam is the first step in selection process, NDA Written exam written exam is conducted by the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) and it is divided into two parts General Ability test (GAT) and Mathematics.

NDA GAT Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Marking Schem

GAT is divided into two parts- English and General Knowledge, it tests your English grammar, vocabulary and reading comprehension and your awareness in current affairs and other subjects.

English: This section of GAT has 50 questions, 4 marks each. Total marks for this section is 200. This section will test your knowledge in English vocabulary, grammar and reading comprehension.

General Knowledge: General Knowledge has 100 questions, 4 marks each. Total marks 400. Question in this section will test your knowledge in subjects like Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, Polity and Current Affairs.

General Ability Exam Pattern

Total Questions

 150

Total Marks

600 marks

Total questions in English Section

50

Total of questions in General Knowledge Section

100

Total Marks for English

200 marks

Total Marks for G.K

400 marks

Marks for Correct Answers

1.English – 4 marks

2.G.K – 4 marks

Marks for incorrect answer

1.English    – (1.33 marks)

2.G.K   – (1.33 marks)

Exam Duration

2.5 hours

Exam Duration

You’ll get 2.5 hours for GAT exam. This means that you will have 150 minutes for 150 questions.

Tips For preparation

  • Stay updated by daily reading newspapers, make sure to verify the source before, some sites that you can check are (The Hindu, Times of India)  and also these Government sites for official statements ( Press Information Bureau (PIB),  Ministry of External Affairs(MEA))
  • For other subjects you can use 11th and 12th class NCERT.
  • Avoid guessing answers, because NDA GAT exam has negative marking scheme.
  • If you want proper guidance you can join an NDA coaching center (optional).

NDA Math’s Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Marking Scheme

NDA Exam Pattern for SSB Interview

NDA Maths exam consists of 120 questions, 2.5 marks each and -0.83 will be deducted for each wrong answer. Total marks for this exam is 300.  NDA Math’s Exams checks fundamental mathematical concepts covered in 11th, and 12th NCERT.

NDA Mathematics Exam Pattern

Total Questions

120

Total Marks

300

Marks for correct answer

2.5 marks

Marks for incorrect answer

-(0.83) marks

Exam Duration

2.5 hours

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Points To Remember During NDA , SSB Interview

Be honest: Do not lie while answering the questions because SSB interviewers are highly trained professionals skilled at catching lies. They can catch your lies by cross questioning or body language and if you are caught lying, you’ll most likely be disqualified from the selection process.

Stay Updated: You can be asked about current affairs, this shows your general awareness and it can increase your chance of selection.

Prepare for Tests: Practice Writing Picture Perception Description Tests (PPDT) and Situation Reaction Tests (SRTs). There are many resources available online and can join good coaching centers to help you prepare for these tests.

Maintain Physical Fitness:  SSB interview also includes physical activities. So make sure you are in good physical condition.

Dress Formally: Be aware of your Dressing sense, Dress decently and appropriately throughout the SSB interview.

Teamwork: The SSB interview heavily focuses on teamwork skills. Be a good listener, participate actively in group discussions, and cooperate with your fellow candidates.

Leadership: Demonstrate leadership qualities by taking initiative, organizing tasks, and motivating others.

Also read 16 NDA SSB Interview Questions (Answer and tips)

NDA Marking Scheme

In the end we will also see NDA Marking Scheme for the written exam:

Elements 

Mathematics

GAT

Total Questions

120

150

Total Marks

300

600

Marks for correct answer

2.5

4

Marks for incorrect answer

-0.83

-1.33

Also, check

GD Tips: Group Discussion Tips For Interview

SSB Interview and Selection Process for NDA 2024

How to Prepare for NDA GAT Exam ?

How to prepare for NDA Mathematics exam ?

Last 30 Days Strategy For NDA 1 2024, Preparation Tips to Ace the Exam

Contact Us

For any inquiries or assistance regarding NDA coaching in Dehradun, feel free to reach out to us. Here’s how you can get in touch:

Address:  Sahastradhara Rd, near kriti appartment, opp. shani dev mandir, B Block, Aman Vihar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001
Visit us at our campus located in Dehradun.

Phone Numbers:
You can contact us directly via phone for immediate assistance. Our phone numbers are +91- 099970 34744and + 91-7599367318.

Email: cadetsdefenceacademy@gmail.com
Do you have a question or require additional details? Send us an email at cadetsdefenceacademy@gmail.com  Our team will get back to you promptly with the answers you need.

Website & Social Media Links:
Explore our website, www.cadetsdefenceacademy.com, for comprehensive details about our NDA coaching programs and facilities. Stay updated with the latest news and announcements by following us on social media. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

Feel free to reach out to us through any of the channels mentioned above. We’re here to assist you on your journey towards achieving your NDA coaching goals in Dehradun.

NDA Exam Pattern 2024 FAQs

You need to be 16.5 and 19.5 years old

NDA selection process has two stages:

  1. Written Exam conducted by UPSC.
  2. SSB Interview conducted by Services Selection Board.

Yes NDA exam has negative marking scheme for both Mathematics and GAT.

There is no minimum qualifying marks for the NDA written exam however, to get shortlisted for the SSB interview, you need to score above the cut-off marks set by UPSC.

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CDS 2 2026 Result Date: Latest UPSC Update & What to Expect

CDS 2 2026 Result Date: Latest UPSC Update & What to Expect

CDS 2 2026 Result Date: Latest UPSC Update & What to Expect Table of Contents   The CDS 2 2026 Result Date has become one of the most anticipated announcements for defense aspirants across India. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Combined Defence Services examination twice yearly, offering a golden opportunity for candidates to join prestigious defense institutions. For aspirants preparing through coaching institutes like Cadets Defence Academy in Dehradun, understanding the result timeline is crucial for proper planning. The CDS 2 2026 Result Date is expected to follow the historical pattern established by UPSC, with results typically declared within 15-40 days of the examination. As per the latest updates from the official UPSC website, candidates who appeared for CDS 2 are eagerly awaiting the announcement. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the CDS 2 2026 Result Date, including how to check results, what comes after, and preparation strategies. When Will CDS 2 2026 Result Be Released? The CDS 2 2026 Result Date announcement follows a predictable timeline based on historical data. The CDS 2 examination is scheduled for September 13, 2026, and based on previous years’ patterns, the result is expected within 20-30 days of the exam date. Historical Result Timeline: Year Exam Date Result Date Days Taken CDS 1 2026 April 12, 2026 May 8, 2026 26 days CDS 2 2025 September 14, 2025 October 9, 2025 25 days CDS 1 2025 April 13, 2025 April 28, 2025 15 days CDS 2 2024 September 1, 2024 September 20, 2024 19 days CDS 1 2024 April 21, 2024 May 9, 2024 18 days CDS 2 2023 September 3, 2023 October 3, 2023 30 days Based on this analysis, the CDS 2 2026 Result Date is likely to fall between October 3-10, 2026. However, candidates should regularly check the official UPSC portal for the exact date. CDS 2 2026 Result: Expected Release Timeline Understanding the expected release timeline for CDS 2 2026 Result Date helps candidates plan their next steps effectively. The result announcement is typically made in the morning hours, and candidates need to be prepared with their admit card details for quick verification. The evaluation process involves: Answer key release: Within 3-5 days of examination Objection period: Candidates can challenge answers for 3 days Final evaluation: Takes approximately 10-15 days Result declaration: Final merit list released as per CDS 2 2026 Result Date Aspirants preparing at defense academies like Cadets Defence Academy Dehradun understand the importance of meeting these timelines for their SSB interview preparations. How to Check CDS 2 Result 2026 Online? Checking your CDS 2 2026 Result Date outcome is straightforward. Here’s the step-by-step process: Steps to Check Your Result: Visit Official Website: Navigate to the official UPSC portal at www.upsc.gov.in Locate Result Section: Click on “Written Results” in the news section Find CDS 2 Result Link: Search for “CDS 2 2026 Result” or “CDS 2 Result 2026” Download Merit List PDF: Click the PDF link to download the complete merit list Search Your Roll Number: Use Ctrl+F (or Cmd+F on Mac) to find your roll number Verify Details: Confirm your name, roll number, and qualifying status Save for Future Reference: Download and save the PDF for SSB interview purposes Candidates from Dehradun preparing at Cadets Defence Academy should keep their admit cards handy for quick reference of their roll numbers. Where to Download the Official CDS 2 Result PDF? The official CDS 2 2026 Result Date notification and merit list PDF are exclusively available on the UPSC website. This is the most authentic source for result information. Official Download Locations: Primary Source: www.upsc.gov.in – News section Direct Result Link: Will be activated on CDS 2 2026 Result Date Merit List PDF: Available in downloadable format Scorecard: Individual scorecards released alongside merit list Important Note: Be cautious of fraudulent websites claiming to provide results before the official announcement. Always rely on the official UPSC portal for authentic information. What Details Are Mentioned in the CDS 2 Result? The CDS 2 result document contains crucial information for qualified candidates: Details Included in Result Document: Candidate’s name and roll number Date of birth for verification Written exam marks obtained Qualifying status (selected/not selected) Recommended academy (IMA/INA/AFA/OTA) Interview schedule information Instructions for document verification Important dates for SSB process Understanding these details helps candidates from academies like Cadets Defence Academy Dehradun prepare for the subsequent selection stages. CDS 2 2026 Result: How to Check Your Roll Number Your roll number is essential for finding yourself in the merit list after the CDS 2 2026 Result Date announcement. Here’s how to locate and verify it: Finding Your Roll Number: From Admit Card: Your roll number is printed on the CDS 2 admit card From Application: Check your email confirmation for application reference From Registration: Available in your UPSC registration dashboard Verification Process: Match your roll number with admit card details Search Tips for Merit List: Use exact roll number format (leading zeros if applicable) Try searching by name if roll number search fails Check spelling variations of your name Contact UPSC helpline for verification issues What Happens After the CDS 2 2026 Result? Once the CDS 2 2026 Result Date is declared and your name appears in the merit list, the selection process moves to the next crucial stage. Post-Result Timeline: Interview Call Letters: Issued within 5-7 days of result declaration Document Verification: Candidates must submit original documents SSB Interview: Conducted over 4 days per candidate Medical Examination: Follows immediately after SSB Final Selection: Merit list finalized after all stages Joining Date: Communicated 30 days before academy joining Candidates preparing at Cadets Defence Academy in Dehradun should understand this timeline for better preparation. CDS 2 2026 SSB Interview: What Qualified Candidates Should Know The SSB interview is the most crucial stage after the CDS 2 2026 Result Date announcement. This 4-day comprehensive evaluation assesses officer-like qualities. SSB Interview Structure: Stage Duration Focus Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) 45 minutes Mental reasoning ability Thematic Apperception

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AFCAT Online vs Offline Preparation – Which Method Works Better?

AFCAT Online vs Offline Preparation – Which Method Works Better?

AFCAT Online vs Offline Preparation – Which Method Works Better? Table of Contents Preparing for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) is a critical step toward achieving your dream of becoming an Indian Air Force officer. With the increasing popularity of online learning platforms, aspiring candidates often find themselves at a crossroads: Should they opt for AFCAT online preparation or traditional offline coaching? This comprehensive guide explores both methods and helps you make an informed decision. At Cadets Defence Academy, we offer both AFCAT online and offline preparation programs designed to maximize your chances of success. AFCAT Preparation: Online vs Offline – What’s the Difference? AFCAT online and offline preparation represent two distinct approaches to exam readiness, each with its unique advantages and challenges. Online AFCAT preparation leverages digital platforms, recorded lectures, and virtual classes accessible from anywhere, anytime. In contrast, offline AFCAT coaching provides face-to-face interaction with instructors, structured classroom environments, and direct mentorship. The core difference lies in delivery methodology. While online preparation for AFCAT emphasizes flexibility and self-paced learning, offline coaching focuses on disciplined routines, peer interaction, and immediate doubt resolution. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the preparation method that aligns with your learning style and lifestyle. How Does AFCAT Online Preparation Work? Online AFCAT preparation operates through digital learning platforms where candidates access recorded lectures, study materials, and practice tests remotely. This model allows aspirants to learn at their own pace, pause lessons when needed, and revisit complex topics multiple times. Key Components of Online AFCAT Preparation: Live streaming or pre-recorded video lectures Digital study materials and notes Mobile app-based learning resources Online mock tests and performance analytics Virtual doubt-clearing sessions One-on-one online mentoring options Candidates preparing through AFCAT online coaching benefit from flexibility in scheduling, cost-effectiveness, and access to expert instructors regardless of geographical location. However, this method requires exceptional self-discipline and motivation to maintain consistent preparation routines. At Cadets Defence Academy, our online AFCAT program includes comprehensive video lectures, digital study materials covering entire syllabus, regular online assessments, and virtual mentorship sessions with experienced faculty members. How Does Offline AFCAT Coaching Work? Offline AFCAT coaching operates through traditional classroom-based instruction where students attend regular classes at coaching centers. This method provides structured learning environments, direct interaction with faculty, and peer collaboration opportunities. Key Components of Offline AFCAT Coaching: Daily classroom lectures (3-4 hours minimum) Direct access to qualified faculty members Physical study materials and question banks In-center mock tests and evaluations Regular doubt sessions with instructors Peer learning and group discussions Disciplined routine and environment The offline approach at Cadets Defence Academy emphasizes personalized attention, immediate feedback, and integrated SSB preparation alongside written exam coaching. Our offline batches maintain class sizes of 45-50 students to ensure quality instruction and individual interaction. AFCAT Online vs Offline Preparation: Key Differences Some very common reasons from the NDA medical rejection list are: Aspect Online AFCAT Preparation Offline AFCAT Coaching Flexibility High – Learn anytime, anywhere Low – Fixed schedule and location Cost Generally more affordable Higher due to infrastructure costs Peer Interaction Limited to forums/chat groups Direct classroom interaction Doubt Resolution Delayed or asynchronous Immediate and real-time Study Environment Self-managed, prone to distractions Structured, disciplined atmosphere Faculty Interaction Limited, mostly through recordings Direct, personalized attention Physical Training Not available Integrated fitness programs Mock Tests Online simulations only Center-based and online both SSB Preparation Limited hands-on training Comprehensive GTO practice Motivation Level Required Very high self-motivation needed Group motivation and support Which Method Offers Better AFCAT Study Flexibility? Online AFCAT preparation undoubtedly provides superior flexibility, making it ideal for working students, individuals with family commitments, and those managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously. You can watch lectures during lunch breaks, commute time, or early mornings. However, flexibility can also be a double-edged sword. While online AFCAT preparation allows you to create your own schedule, it requires exceptional discipline to maintain consistency without external structure. Offline AFCAT coaching offers structured flexibility where you commit to specific hours but still manage personal responsibilities outside class. This method works better for candidates who struggle with self-motivation or prefer accountability through fixed schedules. Consider your lifestyle when choosing between AFCAT online vs offline preparation. If you’re a self-driven learner comfortable with minimal external structure, online works well. If you need guidance, routine, and accountability, offline coaching proves more effective. Online vs Offline AFCAT Preparation for Doubt Solving Doubt resolution represents one of the most critical factors distinguishing online and offline AFCAT preparation methods. Offline AFCAT coaching at Cadets Defence Academy provides immediate doubt clearance through daily doubt sessions. Students can ask questions directly, receive instant explanations, and clarify misconceptions immediately. This real-time interaction prevents confusion from accumulating and ensures conceptual clarity essential for AFCAT success. Online AFCAT preparation relies on asynchronous communication where students post queries and wait for responses, often causing delays in understanding. However, quality online platforms provide scheduled live sessions for doubt clearing, partially bridging this gap. The advantage clearly favors offline AFCAT coaching for comprehensive doubt resolution, particularly for complex topics in Mathematics, Reasoning, and General Ability Tests. Which Method Provides Better Mock Tests and Practice? Both preparation methods offer mock tests, but with notable differences: Online Mock Tests: AI-generated performance analytics Immediate result compilation Comparison with national averages Flexible attempt schedules Repeat attempts without limitations Offline Mock Tests: Simulated exam environment Real-time atmosphere similar to actual AFCAT Supervised testing conditions Invigilated exams promoting discipline Detailed feedback discussions AFCAT online preparation provides unlimited mock test attempts with detailed analytics, while offline AFCAT coaching ensures authentic exam experience crucial for managing time pressure and examination anxiety. Cadets Defence Academy conducts full-length mock tests simulating actual AFCAT patterns with rigorous invigilated conditions. AFCAT Preparation: Comparing Study Material and Resources Quality study materials significantly impact AFCAT preparation success. Online Platform Materials: E-books and PDF notes Video explanations with subtitles Downloadable resources for offline access Interactive animations for concept clarity Links to external resources Offline Coaching Materials: Printed textbooks and reference guides Handwritten notes from faculty Question banks with explanations

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NDA Category-Wise Age Relaxation & Reservation Rules Explained (SC/ST/OBC)

NDA Category-Wise Age Relaxation & Reservation Rules Explained (SC/ST/OBC)

NDA Category-Wise Age Relaxation & Reservation Rules Explained (SC/ST/OBC) Table of Contents Every year, thousands of SC, ST, OBC, and EWS candidates search for NDA category-wise age relaxation hoping to find a few extra years to apply. This confusion is completely understandable — after all, exams like the UPSC Civil Services grant SC/ST candidates a 5-year relaxation and OBC candidates a 3-year relaxation. So why wouldn’t the National Defence Academy exam work the same way? The honest answer, backed by official UPSC notifications, is that NDA category-wise age relaxation does not exist in the way most aspirants imagine. The National Defence Academy exam runs on a fixed, uniform age band for every candidate, irrespective of caste or category. What NDA does offer instead is seat reservation — a completely different concept from age relaxation. In this guide by Cadets Defence Academy, Dehradun’s trusted name in defence coaching, we break down exactly how NDA reservation works, what SC/ST/OBC/EWS candidates actually get, the documents you need, and how it compares with CDS and CAPF rules. If you’re preparing for NDA 1 or NDA 2, this is the one article that will clear every doubt around NDA category-wise age relaxation. Does NDA Give Age Relaxation to SC/ST/OBC? (The Truth Most Aspirants Get Wrong) Let’s address the myth head-on: NDA does not give age relaxation to SC, ST, or OBC candidates. This is one of the most searched and most misunderstood topics among defence aspirants, largely because other UPSC exams (like the Civil Services Examination) do offer such relaxation. For the National Defence Academy exam, the upper and lower age limit is fixed at 16.5 to 19.5 years for every applicant — general, SC, ST, OBC, or EWS. There is no additional window of 3 or 5 years added on top of this band for reserved categories. So when an aspirant asks “what is the NDA category-wise age relaxation for OBC candidates,” the direct answer is: there isn’t one. The date-of-birth bracket published in the official UPSC notification applies uniformly to all categories. This is fundamentally different from recruitment exams under the Department of Personnel and Training, where reserved categories receive age relaxation as a matter of policy. NDA, being a defence academy entrance exam tied to physical and medical standards for cadet training, follows a different logic altogether — one based on a fixed training-age window rather than category-based flexibility. Why NDA Doesn’t Offer Age Relaxation to Any Category The absence of NDA category-wise age relaxation isn’t an oversight — it’s a deliberate design choice rooted in how defence training works. Physical and medical readiness: Cadets join the NDA at a young age because the three-year training at Khadakwasla is physically demanding. A narrow, fixed age band ensures every cadet is developmentally suited to the same rigorous routine. Uniform training batches: The Armed Forces prefer cadets who enter training within a tight age bracket so that physical fitness benchmarks, drill standards, and academic pace remain consistent across the batch. Different objective than civil service exams: UPSC CSE selects officers for administrative roles where age relaxation compensates for social disadvantage in career progression. NDA selects cadets for a physically intensive military training pipeline, where the logic of extending age doesn’t align with training requirements. Legal and policy distinction: Age relaxation and reservation are two separate constitutional tools. Reservation ensures representation in seats; age relaxation extends eligibility windows. The Ministry of Defence and UPSC have chosen to apply only the former to NDA, not the latter. Because of this, aspirants preparing at any NDA coaching in Dehradun, including our own NDA Foundation Course, are advised to plan their attempts strictly within the standard 16.5–19.5 age window rather than banking on relaxation that doesn’t exist. NDA Reservation Policy Explained: What Actually Applies While there’s no NDA category-wise age relaxation, there is a genuine reservation policy — and understanding it correctly matters just as much. NDA reservation applies at the seat allocation stage, not the age-eligibility stage or the written cut-off stage. In simple terms: Every candidate, regardless of category, must fall within the same age bracket to even apply. Every candidate, regardless of category, competes on the same written exam paper and cut-off marks. Once candidates clear the written exam and SSB interview, final seat allotment is done against category-wise reserved vacancies (SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS) as notified by UPSC for that particular course. This is a crucial distinction that many aspirants miss. Reservation in NDA affects who gets a seat from the final merit list, not who is allowed to sit for the exam or who needs fewer marks to qualify. So while NDA reservation policy genuinely exists and benefits eligible candidates during seat allotment, it should never be confused with age relaxation. Category-wise Seat Reservation Percentage (SC/ST/OBC) UPSC follows the standard Government of India reservation framework for NDA seat allocation. Here’s the category-wise breakdown typically applied: Category Reservation Percentage Applicable At SC (Scheduled Caste) 15% Final seat allotment ST (Scheduled Tribe) 7.5% Final seat allotment OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) 27% Final seat allotment EWS (Economically Weaker Section) 10% Final seat allotment General/Unreserved Remaining seats Final seat allotment These percentages are applied to the total vacancies notified for each NDA course and are subject to change based on the latest UPSC notification. Aspirants should always cross-check the current numbers on the official UPSC website before applying, since reservation percentages can be revised. It’s worth repeating: this table has nothing to do with age. A 19-year-old OBC candidate and a 19-year-old general-category candidate both need to fall within the same date-of-birth window — reservation only decides how many of the final seats are earmarked for each category once merit is established. OBC Non-Creamy Layer Certificate: Format & Requirement To claim the 27% OBC reservation in NDA, a candidate must submit a valid Non-Creamy Layer (NCL) certificate, not just a caste certificate. This is where many otherwise-eligible OBC aspirants lose their reservation benefit due to documentation errors. Key requirements for the OBC-NCL certificate: It must be issued

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