How to Crack GATE 2026 in First Attempt?
GATE 2026 notification has been announced and the registration is set to start at GOAPS Portal. If you’re aiming to crack GATE 2026 exam in the first attempt, you must proven strategies, effective preparation tips for GATE 2026, discussed here.
IIT Guwahati will conduct the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE 2026) on February 7, 8, 14, 15, 2026. Candidates who are planning to crack this exam in first attempt must follow the organized study plan with effective strategies to maximize their chance of success.
Also, Read: GATE 2026 Registration
How to Crack GATE 2026 in First Attempt? 7 Proven Tips
1. Start Early with a Proven Study Plan
Start early to comfortably cover the syllabus—and avoid last-minute crushing.
Understand the syllabus and exam pattern thoroughly: General Aptitude (15 marks), Engineering Mathematics (high weightage), and your core technical subjects.
Craft a clear study schedule. Beginners may need 8–12 months with 4–6 hours daily, while dedicated learners can compress into 6–8 months at 5–6 hours daily
2. Use Best Quality Study Material
Select one standard book per subject, avoiding overload. Also use short notes and online lectures for concept clarity and practice.
Focus on subject-wise revision, especially high-yield areas like Engineering Mathematics, General Aptitude, and your core branch topics.
3. Solve PYQs and Mock Tests Effectively
Solve previous year question papers (PYQs) regularly at least twice a day for familiarity with exam patterns.
Start topic-wise tests early, transitioning into full-length mock tests. Initially 1 per week; ramp up to 2–3 mocks per week closer to exam.
4. Analyze and Improve
Review your mock tests thoroughly: track your total vs target score, section-wise accuracy, time per section, mistake patterns, and un-attempted questions.
Classify errors as conceptual mistakes, silly mistakes, or accuracy issues, and work to eliminate them.
Maintain an error log and reattempt wrong questions weekly for retention.
5. Focus On Time Management
Simulate actual exam conditions while practicing (10 AM–1 PM time slot).
Learn to allocate time expertly: 30 minutes for GA, 2.5 hours for technical sections.
Adopt the Pomodoro technique for focused and productive study sessions.
6. Revision and Final Phase Preparation
In the final few months (October–December): emphasize mock tests, formula sheets, and revision notes.
Last 90-day crash strategy: stop learning new topics, focus on daily formula revision, alternate-day mocks, and maintaining physical and mental health.
7. Avoid Common Pitfalls
Don’t skip General Aptitude or Engineering Mathematics—they’re high-scoring and boost overall rank.
Avoid procrastination and burnout—stay consistent and positive.
Rely on one well-structured study plan instead of jumping between resources.
7 Month Study Plan for GATE 2026
Here is experts suggested best 7 month study plan for GATE 2026 preparation to help aspirants:
| 7 Months Study Plan for GATE 2026 | |
| Months | Goals |
| 1-2 | Build fundamentals and focus on core subjects; begin PYQs & short notes making |
| 3-4 | Focus on high-weightage areas: Maths, GA; start mixed topic quizzes |
| 5 | Increase mock tests; maintain an error log, analyze thoroughly |
| 6 | Lock down: 50% revision, 25% mock tests, 25% mock analysis |
| 7 | Final lap: 2 PYQs each week, daily formula revision, mock tests every alternate day |
FAQs on How to Crack GATE 2026 in First Attempt?
Q. How many hours should I study daily?
Ans. For serious preparation: 5–6 hours; beginners may need 4–6 hours daily.
Q. When should I start mock tests?
Ans. Begin weekly mock tests once you’ve covered about 50% of the syllabus; increase frequency closer to exam.
Q. Which books should I refer to?
Ans. Stick to one standard reference per subject. For GA, R.S. Aggarwal is a popular choice. Refer to prescribed books for your core discipline.
Q. How to manage stress & stay healthy?
Ans. Maintain 7–8 hours of sleep, balanced meals, regular exercise, and stress-relieving breaks like walks or yoga.
Q. Is the two-paper option for GATE 2026 beneficial?
Ans. Yes—allows you to showcase expertise in two disciplines, increasing admission or job prospects