Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (or GATE) is an all-India examination that tests students’ knowledge and understanding of Engineering and Sciences. GATE scores help candidates get admission in various post-graduate programs offered by higher education Indian institutes. One of India’s most competitive exams, GATE was taken by 818,850 students in 2016.
A shortcut to cracking GATE is unlikely, but here are a few tips that might come in handy before you sit for the exam:

1. Take mock tests: Mock tests give you with the basic idea of what the exam will be like. The type, content as well as context of the questions is similar to the test, and gives the candidate a good look at the exam. Practicing previous year question papers is also a must, while prepping for GATE.
    
2. Reduce the answering time: The week before the exam should only comprise of efficiently managing time while attempting the paper. Subjects such as Engineering Mathematics are common to every stream and require quick calculations. Make efforts such as identification of the solvable question, proper space for rough work etc. to reduce the answering time.
    
3. Learn to use the virtual calculator: While practicing to improve the timing, acquaint yourself with the use of a virtual calculator that will be provided during the test. Since GATE no longer permits the use of scientific calculator in the hall, it is highly recommended that you are comfortable with using an online calculator.
    
4. Make short notes for revision: Last-minute studying is all about revisions, and not actual learning. Although subjects vary from stream to stream, a few theoretical and numerical subjects are common. For example, in Mechanical Engineering, Thermal and Manufacturing are theoretical subjects. So, listing important points of these subjects can sum up the entire content in just a few minutes.
    
5. Play to your strengths:One man’s meat can be another man’s poison. The same is true for GATE subjects. So, strategize your attempt for the paper. Prioritize your strong subjects over the weak ones. Avoid playing the guess game as you’ll be penalized for every wrong answer and lose hard-earned marks.

Most of all, do not panic. Stay positive, take those essential naps and remain optimistic. Good Luck!


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