How can I prepare for the GATE exam with the EC branch? I'm in the first year at LNCT, Bhopal.

GATE exam is a tough nut to crack. Around 8 lakh candidates apply every year for the exam to secure a seat in top IITs for a master’s degree or getting into PSUs.

If you are targeting the exam, it will be early to join coaching classes. As you are currently in your first year, it will be better to start focusing, reading, and learning about the core subjects in graduation. It will give you conceptual clarity. Also, the preparation will help you in placements too. 

You can also refer to the following reference books during preparation:

You can read these books as per the topics in each semester. Make notes thoroughly and solve previous years’ papers. Join test series at various coachings and try to solve as many problems as you can from different sources.

There is no better hack to crack the GATE exam for now. Overall, you will have to plan your day well in advance and follow the routine strictly because the time after college is a bare minimum.