How to Crack Gate Exam 2026? - Top 10 Tips

How to Crack Gate Exam 2026 - Top 10 tips

Here are the some tips to crack gate exam that candidates can follow:

1. Start your preparation as early as possible

There is no perfect time to start preparing for GATE 2026. Candidates must start it as early as possible. Having more time to complete the study for an exam is always an advantage. Many a time, students fall short of time to complete the syllabus and end up skipping one or two topics that may come in the exam. Also, starting the GATE 2026 preparation at an early stage can help in dedicating more time to understand all the concepts, resulting in a better score.

2. Know the syllabus

The first step before starting off with the preparation is to know the detailed syllabus of GATE 2026 The syllabus helps to have a clear understanding of what all have to be studied. With the help of the GATE syllabus, candidates can plan their studies and focus on topics that will require more time and concepts. General Aptitude (GA) is a mandatory section for all GATE papers. Meanwhile, Engineering Mathematics is compulsory for all papers except (GG & XL).

3. Check the GATE 2026 exam pattern

Having an idea of how the GATE 2026 exam will be done such as the types of questions asked or the marking scheme is highly beneficial. Candidates can find all such details regarding the exam in the GATE 2026 exam pattern. The GATE exam consists of both multiple-choice questions and numerical-type questions (MCQs & NAT). Also, the marking schemes for different question papers will differ from each other.

4. Prepare a schedule

Staying disciplined while preparing for the GATE exam is crucial. Candidates are advised to prepare a schedule or a timetable day wise. It should be noted that while preparing the schedule, students must remember a few points such as categorising the topics depending on the weak, medium, and strong areas. Also, time should be allotted for each category. For example, a mock schedule is given below. You can follow it or alter accordingly.

5. Have dedicated study hours

Since GATE is an important examination and lakhs of students will be appearing for it, aspirants are required to put in their best efforts. Have dedicated study hours. Do not forget to take breaks in between. Always remember, concentration is important.
Check:- GATE Preparation Timetable

6. Make it a habit of taking notes

Another important tip is to start making notes. Make small notes having important formulas and concepts. Just jot down formulas that you find difficult to remember. It has many advantages. First, this can save a lot of time. Yes!! Since these notes will have summary points, candidates will take less time to revise it. Second, short notes are easy to carry and hence can be studied anytime. Third, notes help to keep everything fresh in mind.

7. Focus on solving mock tests

One common tip given by the experts and toppers to crack GATE is to solve as many mock tests as possible. Solving mock tests is highly beneficial for candidates who aim to secure high. GATE 2026 mock tests are designed just like the actual question paper. Therefore, solving the GATE mock tests allows students to get themselves familiarised with the pattern and difficulty level of the exam.

8. Do not forget to analyse the mock tests

If solving mock tests is a crucial part of preparation then analysing it is equally important. In fact, if the mock tests are left unanalysed, there is no point in giving tests. There are many reasons why a candidate should always analyse the GATE mock tests 2026 . The most important reason is that it helps to understand the level of preparation and also what are the weak and strong areas. Candidates are advised to always analyse the mock tests and work on the areas they are losing marks,

9. Get the right material to study

On the basis of the syllabus, candidates must get the best books to prepare for GATE. Studying from the right book is important as a book should have all the important information correctly explained. The content of the book matters. Candidates must check the GATE books 2026 that is recommended by experts and toppers before buying them.

10. Look after your health

Lastly, do not neglect your health in the race of preparing for the exam in the best way. Take small breaks in between and have a good night’s sleep. Always remember that you can give your best only when you are in the pink of your health. So, do not take stress, just work towards giving your best.