GATE Preparation: Best Resources & Study Hacks for Success

Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is arguably the most sought-after examination of very high prestige that students take if they want to pursue higher studies in engineering or technology in India. Whether it be the Master’s Degree to pursue in IITs, NITs, or IISc or a job in Public Sector Undertakings, clearing the GATE examination is of utmost importance.
 

On the other hand, one cannot ignore the fact that preparing for GATE in India means stepping into a huge arena of competition and that the syllabus is philosophically high. Everything right from the basic study resources to great study hacks to get GATE scorecards will be elaborated on in this blog.

An Overview of the GATE Exam and its Importance 

Having gained an insight into the types of strategies to bolster study preparation, it will be good to understand the GATE exam structure and its relevance. The GATE exam thoroughly examines all the knowledge that is required at the undergraduate level in almost every engineering branch, in an internet-based test setting since it is jointly conducted by IITs, IISc, and other top-ranked institutions.

Important Facts About GATE:
 

Duration of the exam: 3 hours

Total Marks: 100

Number of Questions: 65 questions (multiple choice and numerical answer type)

Subjects: These would include General Aptitude (GA) and the candidate's branch of engineering discipline, e.g. Mechanical, Civil, Computer Science, Electrical, etc. 
 

Surely, the GATE exam is competitive, but with the right approach, it can surely be cleared. Cracking the GATE exam mainly depends on a well-designed study schedule which includes good study materials and efficient time management. 

1. GATE Preparation Resources: Books And Online Resources

The best and most comprehensive resource that covers the entire syllabus greatly enhances one's chance of GATE success. Given below are some of the best books and online resources that will help in the preparations.
 

Best Books for GATE Preparation:

While many GATE books are available, it is essential to highlight a few that cover all topics extensively and by the exam pattern. Some of the GATE preparation books that are most highly recommended include the following:

General Aptitude:
 

Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal 

General Aptitude for GATE by G.K. Publications 

Core Subjects (according to your branch):
 

Mechanical: Mechanical Engineering by R.K. Jain

Civil: Civil Engineering for GATE by M.L. Goyal

Electrical: Electrical Engineering: Conventional and Objective Type by J.B. Gupta

Computer Science: Computer Science Engineering by GATE Academy

Practice Materials:

Problems in General Engineering and Science for GATE, G.K. Publications 

IIT GATE Previous Year Question Papers-Made Easy 

While these books serve the purpose of building conceptual knowledge, do not forget about previous years' question papers. Solving them will help familiarize you with the exam pattern, question type, and difficulty level.

Online Resources for GATE Preparation:

Being in the digital age, many online platforms have claimed to offer all types of study material, mock tests, and interactive resources to GATE aspirants. Following are some of the best online resources:
 

NPTEL -  National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning free online courses and video lectures are carried out by eminent professors from IITs and IISc.

Unacademy - courses live classes and mock tests for the preparation of GATE.

Gradeup - practice papers, study notes, and live classes that directly help students prepare for GATE

Home  - GATE Academy-online courses, practice tests, and tutorial videos for various branches of engineering.

2. Time-Management Tips for GATE Preparation

When it comes to GATE preparation, time management holds the key. With the vast syllabus and quite limited time, focus must be laid on your study schedule. Below are a few time management tips that should help you ace your preparation.

A Practical Study Plan:

Every day, time should be assigned to study concerning the date of the GATE exam. Study time could be divided into slots for different subjects, keeping the most difficult topics, which require more mental concentration, at the beginning of the study schedule.

Rank Topics According to Importance: 

In scoring, some topics might have a higher weight than others. Concentrate on topics of high weightage and those that are frequently asked; therefore, include them at the top of your study plan. For instance, often-asked topics in Electrical Engineering include Electrical Machines, Power Systems, and Network Theory.
 

Distributing Study Hours into Phases:

Phase 1 (3-4 months): Focus on building your basics. Cover the entire syllabus thoroughly, refer to textbooks, and clear concepts.

Phase 2 (2-3 months): Focus more on solving previous year's papers, writing mock tests, and isolating weak areas.

Phase 3 (1 month): Mainly, the focus will be revision and practice papers. Focus on speed and accuracy along with important formulas, shortcuts, and key concepts.

Break Your Day Into Time Blocks:

The Pomodoro method (25 minutes of concentrated study followed by a 5-minute break) is ideal for sustaining one's attention through repetitive hours of study. It is good to take brief breaks now and then to avoid burnout.
 

Assessing Your Progress:

Weekly or monthly progress trackers are to be kept, where you will assess your progress. Write down what topics you have covered and which areas need revision. This works best to keep you aligned and motivated.

3. Some GATE Hacks for Working Professionals

For working professionals balancing work and GATE Preparation can be the most difficult juggling task. However, with the right tactics, one can effectively prepare for GATE and also manage successful work engagements.
 

Study in Your Free Time:

Make the most of your time by studying during breaks, commuting and after work. Download study materials, videos and/or apps that facilitate study while on the move.
 

Use the Weekends:

Weekends are meant for more in-depth study and mock test practices. Plan your weekend study hours well ahead.
 

Maximize Your Study: 

Consider working smart. Since time is a constraint to you, give more precedence to solving problems and applying concepts than to spending time on textbook reading. Concentrate your efforts on practice papers related to GATE and online video lectures.

Staying Organized:

When it comes to planning; as the time limit is scant for you, it is most important to organize your study schedule. Use tools like Google Calendar, or task management apps, to set up reminders for deadlines, study periods, and progress.

4. Study Hacks to Crack GATE

If you're going to study for GATE, it's not just about burning the night candle but also working smart. Here are a few hacks for studying which can help you in the GATE.
 

1. Focus on Conceptual Clarity:

Understanding concepts is more important than memorizing formulas and definitions. When concepts are clear within you, problem-solving becomes easy. 
 

2. Take Mock Tests Regularly:

Mock tests help in simulating the exam ambience to manage time, lower stress levels, and increase speed. Full-length practice tests help in identifying mistakes and improving upon them.

3. Revise Regularly:

An evergreen rule of remembering what you have studied is to revise constantly. Make sure wherever and whenever possible you do revision especially of formulas and key concepts to keep them alive in your mind.
 

4. Solve Previous Year Question Papers:

Solving previous year's papers makes you aware of the pattern of the exam, the kinds of questions, and time constraints.
 

5. Join Online Communities:

Joining online forums or social media groups with GATE aspirants will motivate you and help you with any doubts you might have. Sharing insights with peers raises morale and equips you with fresh learning tools.

Conclusion: How to Stay on Track and Succeed in GATE

Success in GATE is a mixture of quality study material, time management, practice, and motivation. Though books and online material are important, taking regular mock tests and having a robust revision plan is also paramount.
 

Another consideration to assist you on your journey to GATE preparation is Skoodos Bridge. Skoodos Bridge connects you to top coaching institutes that offer a personalized GATE preparation program. Offline coaching or online study options: Skoodos Bridge provides tools and guidance so you can pick the right institutes for your needs. 
 

Having Skoodos Bridge will empower you to choose wisely the coaching centre that suits your learning preferences regarding time and budget. Visit Skoodos Bridge today to take your first step toward GATE success!

FAQs

1. How many hours should I study daily for GATE preparation? 

For effective GATE preparation, you should study at least six to eight hours daily, with adequate breaks and time for revision designed into your schedule.
 

2. Can I crack GATE in 3 months?

 Yes! If you stick to a focused and tactical study plan that emphasizes the major topics with frequent mock exam practice, you really should be able to crack GATE in 3 months.
 

3. What are the best online platforms for GATE preparation? 

Some of the best online platforms include Unacademy, Gradeup, NPTEL, and BYJU's; which conduct good-quality video lectures, quizzes, and mock tests.
 

4. How important are mock tests for GATE preparation? 

They mock the real exam situation and thus, are very critical for improving time management in GATE preparation, helping you identify shortcomings that need improvement. 
 

5. What are the best books for GATE preparation?

Some of the top books are "Mechanical Engineering" by R.K. Jain, "General Aptitude for GATE" by G.K. Publications, and subject-wise guides for your branch like Electrical, Civil, or Computer Science.