How do I prepare for GATE 2021?

GATE is one of the most important stepping stones in every student’s life. To qualify and get a rank below 100, one must follow a rigorous preparation schedule. It is common knowledge that one must start preparing for GATE at least 6 months prior to the day of examination. It is better to follow one subject at a time and prepare the subject thoroughly.

Preparation Strategy:

One of my friends secured a rank under AIR 30 in GATE CS 2020. 

Here are some of the strategies he used during preparation that worked for him

Source of Strategies:

• GateOverFlow: Includes strategies, pdfs, test series, gate questions with answers, doubt clearing section.
• GateCSE: Includes everything related to preparation, syllabus, books, admission, cutoffs, college reviews, etc.
• Interview by Ravi Shankar Mishra: Includes a list of books and main chapters to focus on.
• Gate Information Brochure

A few useful tips for preparation is as follows.

Revision:

• Regularly revise concepts with tests.

• Prepare notes for each subject.
• Start with the complete revision from at least three months before the exam.

Question papers and Test Series:

• Question papers should be left for solving after the preparation of a topic.

• Solving test series questions within a stipulated time will help in increasing efficiency.
• Does not matter how many marks you score, jolt down the answers, and correct the mistakes.
• Give at least 20 tests so that the preparation is solid.

During his final year of BE, my friend started preparing for GATE. After finishing college he opted for coaching. You can do the same or study on your own if you have the self-discipline that GATE preparation requires. 

Miscellaneous tips:

• Prepare well for the aptitude section, it is scoring.
• Make your basic concepts clear. Clear concepts about a topic minimize the chances of getting an answer wrong.
• Do not make mistakes in calculation.
• Do not skip a subject entirely. At least study the basics.

Preparation right before GATE:

• A week before GATE, concentrate on staying healthy and getting enough sleep. Go through the mistakes you made during mock-tests and short-notes on topics that you have a tendency to forget.

• On the day before the GATE examination, do not study anything and try to go to bed early. 
• On the day of the GATE examination, revise the short-notes if you have time in the morning. Reach the examination center in advance.

Hope this was helpful. Best of luck with your examination.