Prepare effectively for GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) with detailed syllabus, subject-wise strategies, practice exercises, mock tests, and expert tips for admission to M.Tech/PhD and PSU recruitment.
The GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) is a national-level examination for:
Postgraduate admissions in engineering and technology (M.Tech / M.E. / PhD)
Recruitment in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)
It tests candidates on technical knowledge, analytical skills, and general aptitude.
Conducted by IITs/IISc on rotation
Highly competitive and requires strategic preparation
Covers core engineering subjects, general aptitude, and engineering mathematics
Mode: Online Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Duration: 3 hours
Number of Questions: 65 questions (MCQs & Numerical Answer Type)
Total Marks: 100
Subjects: Core engineering subject (based on branch), General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, technology, or equivalent
Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Electronics & Communication, Computer Science, Chemical, etc.
Topics vary according to the candidate’s branch
Focus on fundamental concepts, problem-solving, and practical application
Verbal Ability: Sentence completion, grammar, reading comprehension
Numerical Ability: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Data Interpretation
Linear Algebra, Calculus, Probability, Statistics, Differential Equations, Complex Numbers
Essential for analytical reasoning and problem-solving
Check branch-specific syllabus from official GATE notification
Focus on high-weightage topics in core subjects and mathematics
Standard engineering textbooks for core subjects
Engineering Mathematics by R.K. Jain / B.S. Grewal
General Aptitude practice books
Solve previous year GATE question papers
Take online mock tests for speed, accuracy, and time management
Focus on numerical problem-solving and application-based questions
Make concise notes for formulas, derivations, and concepts
Regular revision of core concepts and problem-solving strategies
Branch-specific standard textbooks (Mechanical, Civil, EE, ECE, CSE, etc.)
Engineering Mathematics: R.K. Jain, B.S. Grewal
Online mock tests: GateForum, Made Easy, Unacademy
Previous year GATE papers with solutions
Daily Routine Example:
Morning: Core engineering subject study
Afternoon: Engineering Mathematics practice
Evening: General aptitude & numerical problem-solving
Night: Revision & mock test practice
Weekly Routine:
5 days: Core subjects + mathematics
1 day: Full-length mock test
1 day: Revision & solving previous year papers
Neglecting General Aptitude and Engineering Mathematics
Not practicing previous year questions
Over-reliance on theory without problem-solving practice
Poor time management during preparation and exam
Q1: Is coaching mandatory for GATE preparation?
A1: No, self-study with standard textbooks, notes, and mock tests is sufficient.
Q2: Can non-IIT graduates clear GATE?
A2: Yes, graduates from recognized engineering colleges can appear.
Q3: How many attempts are allowed?
A3: No attempt limit; eligibility depends on qualifying degree.
Q4: Is GATE useful for PSU recruitment?
A4: Yes, top PSUs use GATE scores for recruitment (like ONGC, NTPC, IOCL).
Success in GATE requires:
Clear understanding of exam pattern and syllabus
Conceptual clarity in core engineering subjects and mathematics
Regular practice with mock tests and previous year papers
Strategic time management and consistent revision
With disciplined preparation, candidates can excel in GATE, secure admission to M.Tech / PhD programs, and qualify for PSU recruitment.
