How to Prepare for GATE from 1st Year of College? - Year Wise Study Plan

How to Prepare for GATE from 1st Year of College? - Year Wise Study Plan

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jan 30, 2025 12:25 PM IST | #GATE
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How to prepare for GATE from 1st year of college? - Did this question ever pop into your head, “How to prepare for GATE from 1st year”? If yes, this is the right stop for you! GATE is an all-India test being conducted for admission to postgraduate programs and attractive job offers in various Public Sector Undertakings. Although most students begin their preparation in the final year, starting in the first year of college will help you a great deal. In this guide, you will find out how to prepare for GATE from 1st year of college.The GATE 2025 exam, scheduled for February 1, 2, 15, and 16, 2025. Admit Card for the exam is now released.

How to Prepare for GATE from 1st Year of College? - Year Wise Study Plan
How to Prepare for GATE from 1st Year of College? - Year Wise Study Plan

Why to Start GATE Preparation from the First Year?

Early Bird Advantage: The benefits that are associated with early planning include; one, you are able to develop the right foundations, and two, you minimize stress at the end. Aligned with College Curriculum: Most subjects of the GATE examination fit your college subjects and, hence can be studied in parallel with ease. Time for In-depth Understanding: You are in a position to take your time to understand the ideas in question before you move to the next step. Opportunity for Multiple Revisions: Preparation ahead of time allows for several review sessions hence improved memory.

How to prepare for GATE from 1st year of college? - Step-by-Step Guide

GATE Preparation Plan for First Year of College

  • Familiarize Yourself with GATE especially if you're thinking about how to prepare for GATE CSE from 1st year.

  • Understand the GATE exam pattern and syllabus

  • Research about the different GATE papers and choose your target discipline

  • Focus on Fundamental Subjects

  • Pay extra attention to core subjects like Engineering Mathematics, which carry significant weightage in GATE. Start solving basic problems from GATE previous year questions related to these subjects

  • Develop a Reading Habit

  • Start reading standard textbooks recommended for GATE preparation

  • Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing

  • Build a Strong Foundation in General Aptitude

  • Begin preparing for the General Aptitude section, which is common across all GATE papers

  • Solve puzzles, logical reasoning problems, and improve your verbal ability

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GATE Preparation Plan for Second Year of College

  • Create a Structured Study Plan that allocates time for how to prepare for GATE with college alongside your regular studies.

  • Develop a weekly schedule allocating time for GATE preparation alongside your regular studies

  • Include topics from both 1st and 2nd-year subjects in your GATE preparation plan

  • Start Solving GATE Previous Year Questions

  • Begin with solving GATE questions from the past 5 years

  • Focus on understanding the question patterns and difficulty levels

  • Join Online GATE Communities to Participate in online forums and discussion groups to learn more about how to prepare for GATE CSE from 1st year.

  • Participate in online forums and discussion groups dedicated to GATE preparation

  • Share your doubts and learn from peers

  • Attend GATE Workshops and Seminars

  • Look for GATE-related workshops or seminars in your college or nearby institutions

GATE 2025 Syllabus
Candidates preparing for GATE 2025 can now access the official syllabus. The detailed syllabus PDF is available for download as PDF here.
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These events can provide valuable insights into exam strategies and important topics

GATE Preparation Plan for 3rd Year of College

  • Intensify Your Preparation

  • Increase the time dedicated to how to prepare for GATE from 1st year.

  • Start solving complete previous year papers under timed conditions

  • Focus on Core Subjects

  • Pay special attention to the core subjects of your chosen GATE paper

  • Create short notes for quick revision

  • Take Online Mock Tests

  • Start attempting full-length online mock tests to gauge your preparation level

  • Analyze your performance and work on your weak areas

  • Consider Joining a GATE Coaching Institute

  • If you feel the need for structured guidance, consider enrolling in a reputed GATE coaching institute to balance how to prepare for GATE with college.

  • Many institutes offer weekend batches suitable for college students

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GATE Preparation Plan for Final Year of College

  • Dedicate Maximum Time to GATE Preparation

  • Allocate the majority of your free time to GATE studies

  • Focus on revision and problem-solving

  • Solve Test Series

  • Enroll in a good test series to practice extensively

  • Aim to solve at least 30-40 full-length mock tests before the actual exam

  • Revise and Refine

  • Go through your notes and revise all important concepts

  • Focus on topics with higher weightage in GATE

  • Work on Your Weak Areas

  • Identify and strengthen your weak topics

  • Seek help from mentors or seniors if needed

  • Stay Updated with GATE Notifications

  • Keep track of GATE application dates, exam dates, and any changes in syllabus or exam pattern

Best Books for GATE Preparation

The following are the most recommended books for GATE preparation:

Subject

Books

  1. Engineering Mathematics:

  • Higher Engineering Mathematics by B.S. Grewal

  • Advanced Engineering Mathematics by Erwin Kreyszig

  1. General Aptitude:

  • A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal

  • General Aptitude for GATE by R. S. Aggarwal

  1. Computer Science and Engineering (CSE):

  • Discrete Mathematics and Its Applications by Kenneth H. Rosen

  • Operating System Concepts by Abraham Silberschatz

  1. Electrical Engineering:

  • Electrical Engineering: Principles and Applications by Allan R. Hambley

  • Power System Analysis by John J. Grainger

  1. Mechanical Engineering:

  • Mechanical Engineering Design by J.E. Shigley

  • Engineering Mechanics by J.L. Meriam

  1. Civil Engineering:

  • Strength of Materials by R.K. Bansal

  • R.S. Khurmi for Fluid Mechanics

  1. Chemical Engineering:

  • Transport Processes and Separation Process Principles by Christie John Geankoplis

  • Chemical Engineering Design by Gavin Towler

Tips for Consistent GATE Preparation Throughout College

Balance College Studies and GATE Preparation: Ensure that your GATE preparation doesn't hamper your college performance for how to prepare for GATE with college.
Use Technology Wisely: Many GATE preparation apps and online resources are helpful if used correctly during the learning process.

Form Study Groups: Get together with other students for group study purposes.

Stay Motivated: Lack of motivation during preparation is usually dangerous, therefore you should set Small, Achievable Goals to keep you focused.

Take Care of Your Health: Keep a clean and healthy diet, exercise, and get enough rest.

Be Consistent: The following is true when it comes to long-term preparations; Consistency is vital. As little as an hour or two a day can count miles over a four-year duration of the course.

Seek Guidance: It is not wrong to seek help from your professors or seniors as you prepare for the GATE.

All these strategies explained in this guide and starting from the first year of college with GATE preparation will help you to successfully pass the exam. Please note that with the right kind of effort consistently applied, understanding particular strategies that work with you, and a strong conceptual base, anyone can crack GATE. Begin on time, work hard, and be determined and you will definitely make it big.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. 3. How many hours do I need to study each day for GATE?

Often the period can greatly depend upon various factors including the amount of prior knowledge on the subject as well as the remaining duration before the exam. Even in the first years of college, it is possible to organize a Hamburguesa class, spending 1-2 hours a day. You may find it necessary to move up to 3-4 hours or more in your final year depending on the number of assignments you handle at any given time.

2. Is it necessary to join any coaching for preparing for the GATE?

As we have seen through the previous pages, it is not necessary to be a part of a coaching institute to crack GATE. Thus, a large number of students manage to prepare successfully independently. This decision should be made depending on the learning style as well as the needs one may have.

3. Even if life is so tough and competitive, is it essential to start preparing for GATE right from the first year of college or engineering?

Of course, it is not mandatory but starting early gives you a substantial head start. It invites time for better preparation, without the pressure that is usually associated with the last year of college. But if you’re studying this later than your first year you should not panic – you can make a plan of preparation starting from this point.

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Questions related to GATE

Have a question related to GATE ?

Hello there,

The XH B1 section of the GATE exam primarily includes passages followed by related questions . These questions are usually conceptual and test your understanding of the passage and its context. While it doesn't typically involve numerical problems, it might have questions requiring analysis or reasoning based on the passage.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello there,

To get admission in an IIT for M.Tech through the GATE exam , there are a few important factors to consider. Here's a breakdown:

1. Required Marks for Admission:

  • GATE Score : The marks required to secure admission to an IIT vary each year based on the difficulty of the exam and the number of applicants. However, generally, a good GATE score for IITs is between 700-800 . For top IITs (like IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur), a score around 750-800 would make you competitive, especially in the Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) branch.

  • Rank : Your rank is crucial. To get into top IITs for M.Tech in CSE, you generally need to be within the top 200-300 ranks (though this varies by IIT and the number of seats available). For lower IITs, the rank cutoff could go higher.

    2. Stipend or Scholarship:

  • M.Tech Stipend : If you qualify for M.Tech admission in IITs, you will be eligible for a monthly stipend of Rs. 12,400 (as of 2024) under the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) or similar schemes.

  • Eligibility for Stipend : You need to maintain a minimum of 60% marks (or equivalent CGPA) in your M.Tech coursework to continue receiving the stipend. You also need to be a full-time student .

    3. Requirements for General Category:

  • Eligibility : To appear for the GATE exam as a general category candidate, you need to have:

    • B.Tech/B.E. in CSE or Equivalent (in your case, you’re a CSE student, so you meet this requirement).

    • A minimum of 50% marks in your degree (if you are from a general category).

    • A valid GATE score based on the score cutoffs in each IIT (generally, above 700 for the top IITs).

  • Age Limit : There is no age limit for GATE, so you can attempt it in any year as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.

  • Application : Apply for GATE via the official GATE website, and be sure to check the eligibility conditions and documents needed before applying.

    Key Tips for Preparation:

  • Focus on Core Subjects : For CSE, focus on subjects like Algorithms, Data Structures, Operating Systems, Computer Networks, Theory of Computation, etc.

  • Time Management : Start preparing early (around 3rd year if possible). Make sure you are clear on the syllabus and exam pattern .

  • Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers : Take as many mock tests as possible to identify weak areas. Solve previous year papers to understand the exam's structure and improve time management.

    Conclusion:

Aiming for a 700+ GATE score is a solid target to get into an IIT, especially for Computer Science. Additionally, with the stipend eligibility, you can expect financial support if you get into an IIT for M.Tech. Since you're in your 3rd year, starting early with consistent preparation will be key to securing a good rank.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


If you registered for GATE 2025 under the General category and didn’t select EWS during registration, producing an EWS certificate after results typically won’t change your category. Categories are fixed based on registration details. Confirm with the official authority.

it is highly likely that you can secure admission into a BHMS course under the SC category, as the cut-off for SC category in most states is usually much lower than the general category, and 101 marks might be sufficient to get you a seat in a government or private BHMS college depending on the state and college availability.

  • Check state-wise cut-offs:

The cut-off marks for BHMS in the SC category vary significantly across different states, so always check the specific cut-offs for your state before making any conclusions.

  • Counseling process:

During the NEET counseling process, select BHMS as your preferred course and choose colleges based on your NEET score and category.

  • Private colleges:

If you are unable to secure a seat in a government college with this score, you might have better chances in private colleges.

Some of the top colleges are Solan Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital, Dakshin Kesri Muni Mishrilalji Homoeopathic Medical College, Sophia Homeopathic Medical College, Delhi Institute of Management & Technologies, New Delhi, Power Management Institute, M.T.E.

GOOD LUCK!!

If you have filled out the GATE 2025 form under the EWS category and qualify for the exam, but your score doesn't meet the General category cutoff, you generally do not need to submit the EWS certificate to get the stipend, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for the stipend based on your qualification.


Your eligibility for the stipend may still depend on your qualification and performance in the exam. In some cases, if you're qualifying in the exam, you may still be eligible for the stipend, even if you don't meet the General category cutoff.


For reservation benefits (such as admission through GATE in the EWS category), you will need to submit your EWS certificate. However, if you're not seeking admission through GATE (since you're already pursuing a dual degree) and your primary concern is the stipend, you may not need to submit the EWS certificate, unless specified

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