Gate exam
What is GATE Exam?
An aptitude test is usually conducted in order to test the ability of a candidate in a particular field or subject. There are quite a number of aptitude tests which are conducted annually or quarterly, at various educational institutions.
The purpose of the aptitude test is to determine the knowledge and skill of a person in the designated field of expertise. Out of the many types of aptitude tests, one such test is the GATE examination.
GATE stands for Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering. It is an online computer-based test that is carried out for a duration of 3 hours. The test contains a total of 65 questions that are to be answered in the given time frame.
8 Things You Must Know Before Appearing for the GATE Exam
It is required that you follow some of the important guidelines when you are preparing for the GATE exam .
1. Gather necessary information
Before you jump to giving the test, make sure that you have gathering information that is needs for taking the test. Every test programme has certain criteria that are of utmost importance. Therefore, it is necessary that you take some time and find out details about the eligibility, subjects, test pattern, marks distributed and duration.
2. Preparing for the test
Once you obtained the required information about the test, ensure that you have enough time for preparation. A golden rule here is to never keep things for the last moment. Go through your study materials or you may also seek to coach from experienced tutors. Having a couple of weeks for preparation should be ideal and will make you ready to appear the test with confidence.
3. Specialize in your subject
Gate exam is basically about testing your knowledge and skills in the subject of your preference. So, if you are pursuing your bachelor or master’s degree like Mechanical Engineering in the relevant subject, ensure that you learn with understanding and not by blindly mugging up all the books.
4. Maintain important notes
The best way to learn efficiently is by jotting down the key points while you are studying. This is a good practice and will also help you remember your lessons even after completing the test. Keep a spare notepad or a writing pad beside you so that you can quickly note important answers for revision at a later time.
5. Exercise on sample papers
Since the GATE exam is held periodically, you have an opportunity to refer to the sample questions which have been asked in the past and try to solve them. This will help you test yourself as to how well are you going with your preparation. You may seek assistance from a coaching institute if you are currently studying there.
6. Take up similar tests
GATE exam is one such test programme that can change your future. Therefore, you cannot take this lightly. Manage your time properly and try to attempt a few online tests which are of similar category. This will help you brush up your knowledge and skill and you can determine where you stand. If your institution conducts tests, take them to your advantage and try to give your best.
7. Give your commitment
Sometimes, you have to sacrifice something in order to win something. Similarly, if you relate the GATE exam as being your goal, you must also show some commitment in order to achieve this. Preparing for the GATE exam will, of course, keep you busy, and you may not get enough time for other activities. But, this is for your own benefit. If you are a gadget freak, you may keep your beloved devices aside and give importance to the preparation for the test. Temporarily disengage yourself from things that could distract you from preparing for the test. Also, get enough sleep each night and wake up early to summarize lessons from the previous day. This will help you remember what you have learned so far.
8. Taking the test seriously
The GATE exam is an aptitude test and is a way that determines your capability in your field. Therefore, you must take this test seriously. The test will also help you in building potential in yourself.
Eligibility for GATE Exam 2018
The eligibility criteria for candidates to appear for the GATE exam 2018 are as follows:
- Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology, and Architecture.
- Candidates who have a post-graduate degree in B.Sc can apply for the GATE exam 2018.
- Students with a post-diploma or pursuing their final year are also eligible for the GATE exam 2018.
- Candidates having a master’s degree or are pursuing their final year in Science, Statistics, Mathematics or Computer Applications.
- Candidates who are at least in the second year of their four-year master’s degree programme in Engineering or Technology.
- Students who are in the fourth year of their five-year dual-degree programmes in Engineering or Technology.
- Candidates who have qualified from the Institute of Civil Services (UPSC, AICTE), which is equivalent to B.Tech or B.E degrees.
- Candidates who have previously completed one or more sections of such professional courses can also apply for the GATE exam.
- There is no age bar to appear for the GATE exam.
Subjects in GATE Exam 2018
There a total of 23 subjects which are conducted in the GATE examination. Out of these, a candidate can choose his or her preferred subject.
Some of the common subjects include Biotechnology, Computer Science and Information Technology, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, and much more.
Benefits of GATE Exam 2018
Many candidates take the GATE examination as an opportunity for progressing in their lives. So, here are some of the benefits as to why you should enroll yourself in the GATE exam and build a better future.
- When you obtain good scores in the GATE exam, your chances of getting admission in top post-graduate institutions also increases.
- You can easily get short-listed when applying for jobs in Public Sector Undertaking (PSU).
- People can pursue Ph.D. programmes at various research institutes.
- You also get financial assistance or scholarships for pursuing your master’s degree, such as M.Tech or M.Ed.
- You get a good stipend when you start your career in your discipline
I wish you all the best. Cheers!
