GATE, which stands for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, is a competitive national level examination that allows students to seek admissions to post-graduate programs, such as M.E, M. Tech, and PhD, in reputed institutes across India. Students also stand a chance to gain financial assistance extended by the Ministry of Human Resources and Development and several other government agencies. The score obtained in this examination may also be used to garner jobs in both the public as well as private sector.
Despite the popularity and repute of this exam for years, many students are hesitating to go ahead with the GATE registration 2018, fearing failure. However, like all other competitive examinations, GATE too can be passed with flying colors. Today, we discuss about a few myths about the famed GATE examination.
Myth: GATE is very tough and impossible to pass as it is an all India level test.
Fact: Contrary to popular belief, the GATE question paper can be attempted with proper preparation, as it is completely conceptual. All you need to do is prepare well and understand the concepts of each topic and you will find the paper a real cake walk.
Myth: The more number of questions you attempt, the higher will your score be.
Fact: This is a wrong notion harbored by several GATE aspirants. GATE, like many other all-India exams, has negative marking for questions you answer incorrectly. So, do not attempt questions you aren’t sure about. The cut off to qualify each section is about 22-30 marks and you should ensure you answer each section to surpass this cut off.
Myth: You will have to prepare for all the subjects and topics of graduation, as there will be chapter wise questions.
Fact: This is yet another common misconception. You do not have to study all the subjects and topics of your graduation. After you have completed your GATE registration 2018, refer to the GATE syllabus for each subject. You can also prepare for the examination by referring to the last 10 years’ papers which will give you a better understanding of how the questions are framed. You can note down the topics on which most questions are asked and prepare really well for them.
Myth: You do not have to solve many papers
Fact: The more mock papers you solve, the more prepared you are. After you have prepared the subjects you are confident about, make time to solve as many practice papers as you can within a stipulated time. This will give you a better understanding of your speed and help you get quicker and more accurate while attempting the main exam.
Myth: You have to spend sleepless nights preparing for GATE.
Fact: There is no denying that hard work is the main ingredient for any success story. But, that doesn’t mean you will have to sit all day in front of the book studying. Utilize your time smartly and intelligently. Just pouring over books will not help you score. Spend an hour or two a day regularly and concentrate while preparing for the examination. Do not let distractions come in the way. Learn and understand concepts and focus on how to crack questions rather than just memorizing answers. If you prepare for the exam for at least a whole year in advance, you are sure to ace the exam.
Myth: You should not play or distract yourself while preparing for the GATE
Fact: It goes without saying that cracking the GATE needs a good amount of preparation. But, like most other things, over doing your preparations will only lead to a melt-down just before the big day. Apart from studying for the examination, also indulge in hobbies and other things you like, and follow a balanced schedule to be able to give your best at the exam.
The GATE exam is like any other exam. There is no need to worry about it day and night. Prepare well, stay cool, and remain confident, and you will definitely score well.