How to Prepare for the GATE 2024 according to Weightage?

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, or GATE, is one of the most competitive exams in India for engineering and science graduates. It serves as a gateway to pursue postgraduate programs in top institutions and opens the doors to numerous career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. To ace the GATE 2024 exam, it's essential to have a well-structured and efficient preparation strategy. One of the key aspects of this strategy is understanding the weightage of different topics and subjects within the GATE syllabus. In this article, we will delve into how to prepare for GATE 2024 according to weightage, offering you a practical roadmap to success.

Understand the Syllabus

For this one should check the syllabus and previous question papers. The weightage given to the respective topics should be identified in the question papers. Preparation should be done accordingly. Experts suggest that especially BTech final-year students should start their preparation as early as possible. Final-year students can prepare by linking the GATE syllabus with the academic syllabus.

Understanding Weightage in GATE

Weightage refers to the allocation of marks or the importance of specific topics or subjects within the GATE syllabus. The GATE exam typically covers a wide range of subjects and topics, and not all of them are equally weighted. To maximize your chances of scoring well, it's crucial to identify which areas carry more marks and, therefore, deserve more of your attention during your preparation

Basics and Application Approach

To get a good score in GATE and make the way for admission to IITs easy.  Candidates should have complete mastery of their chosen subject from basics to advanced techniques. While reading each subject, identify the questionable topics and get clear on their basic concepts. Observe how many types of questions can be asked from a topic and practice the questions to that extent. This will give you the readiness to answer no matter how the question is asked in the exam. Make a time plan to complete the preparation by the last week of December or the first week of January. After that attend online model tests and mock tests when available. If you prepare with a solid plan from now, you can get a good score on the exam.

GATE Online Exam

The GATE exam will be conducted in online mode (Computer Based Test). So the candidates should acquire the skill to write the exam without hesitation in the online mode. Knowledge of virtual calculator usage, on-screen answer recognition, etc. For this, it is useful to attend online model tests.

Aim for Morethan 600 Marks

Students aspiring for a seat in prestigious IITs through GATE should strive to achieve the best score. Only then will the chances of the selection process improve. Almost all institutes specify a minimum cutoff score of 600. In the final selection, the final cutoff score is up to 800 in the top branches. Keeping this in mind, students of branches like CSE, ECE, IT, EEE, and Mechanical should work hard to get a firm grip on the syllabus.

How to Prepare for GATE 2024?

Analyze Previous Year's Papers:

The first step in preparing according to weightage is to analyze the previous year's GATE question papers. This will give you insights into the distribution of marks among different subjects and topics. Pay close attention to the recurring themes and the number of questions asked from each subject.

Identify High-Weightage Subjects:

After analyzing past papers, you'll likely notice that certain subjects consistently carry more marks. Focus your initial efforts on these high-weightage subjects. In the GATE exam, subjects like Engineering Mathematics, General Aptitude, and your core engineering discipline typically have a significant share of the total marks.

Prioritize Core Subjects:

Within your chosen engineering discipline, prioritize topics that are not only high in weight but also form the foundation of the subject. Start by revising the core concepts of these subjects thoroughly. Ensure you have a strong grasp of the fundamentals before moving on to more advanced topics.

Allocate Time Wisely:

Based on the weightage of each subject, create a study schedule that allocates more time to high-weightage subjects and less time to low-weightage ones. However, don't ignore the low-weightage subjects entirely. Allocate some time to cover the basics and attempt a few questions from these areas to secure easy marks.

Solve Practice Questions:

As you study, solve practice questions and sample papers for each subject. This will help you get a feel for the type of questions that are asked and improve your problem-solving skills. Focus on solving questions from high-weightage topics more frequently.

General Aptitude:

The General Aptitude section is a part of every GATE paper and is often underrated. However, it's crucial because it's relatively easy to score well here. Dedicate some time each day to practice English grammar, vocabulary, and quantitative aptitude. This will help boost your overall score.

Engineering Mathematics:

For most engineering disciplines, Engineering Mathematics carries a substantial weightage. Brush up on your mathematical concepts, especially those that are frequently tested in the GATE exam, such as calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations.

Take Mock Tests:

Taking mock tests is essential for GATE preparation. It simulates exam conditions and helps you manage your time effectively. Many coaching institutes and online platforms offer GATE mock tests. Take these tests regularly to assess your progress and identify areas where you need improvement.

Review and Revise:

Regularly review and revise the topics you've covered. This is crucial to ensure that you retain the information and can apply it effectively in the exam. Create concise notes or flashcards to aid in quick revision.

Seek Guidance:

If you're facing difficulties in any subject or topic, don't hesitate to seek guidance. Join a coaching class, consult with professors or experienced mentors, or participate in online forums and discussion groups. Clarifying your doubts and understanding complex concepts are essential for success.

Stay Updated:

Keep yourself updated with any changes in the GATE syllabus or exam pattern. The conducting body occasionally makes modifications, and it's essential to stay informed to avoid surprises on exam day.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:

Last but not least, don't neglect your health during the preparation phase. Get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and take short breaks to relax your mind. A healthy body and mind are better equipped to absorb and retain information.

Preparing for GATE 2024 according to weightage is a smart strategy that can significantly enhance your chances of success. By identifying high-weightage subjects, allocating your time wisely, and focusing on core concepts, you can build a strong foundation for your preparation. Remember that the GATE exam is not just about knowledge but also about time management and problem-solving skills. Regular practice, mock tests, and revisions are your keys to mastering the exam.

Stay committed to your preparation plan, seek guidance when needed, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Success in the GATE exam is achievable with dedication and a well-structured approach. Good luck with your GATE 2024 preparations!