The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a prestigious entrance examination for engineering graduates in India. Understanding the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Exam Pattern is essential for effective preparation and success. This article explains the structure, subject-wise question distribution, and negative marking scheme of the GATE exam.

Overview of Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Exam Pattern

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Exam Pattern is designed to assess a candidate’s knowledge and analytical abilities in various engineering subjects. The exam is conducted online and consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), multiple select questions (MSQs), and numerical answer type (NAT) questions. Each paper is of three hours duration and carries a total of 100 marks.

The examination is divided into two primary sections: General Aptitude and the chosen engineering discipline. Candidates must answer questions from both sections, with General Aptitude being common to all papers. The combination of technical and aptitude questions ensures a comprehensive evaluation of the candidate’s proficiency.

Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Subject Wise Question Distribution

In the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, the subject wise question distribution varies according to the chosen paper. Typically, 15 marks are allocated to the General Aptitude section, while the remaining 85 marks cover the core engineering subject and Engineering Mathematics. Among the technical questions, a mix of one-mark and two-mark questions appear throughout the paper.

• General Aptitude: 15 marks
• Engineering Mathematics: 13–15 marks (for most papers)
• Technical Subjects: 70–72 marks

This structured question distribution helps students identify key areas of focus for the examination and allocate their study time more efficiently.

Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Negative Marking

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Negative Marking system applies to MCQs only. For one-mark MCQs, one-third mark is deducted for each incorrect answer, while for two-mark MCQs, two-thirds mark is deducted. However, there is no negative marking for MSQs and NAT questions.

Understanding the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Negative Marking scheme is crucial for strategic answering. Candidates should avoid random guessing and answer questions only when reasonably confident, as incorrect answers can significantly impact their final score.

Conclusion

Grasping the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering Exam Pattern, including the subject wise question distribution and negative marking rules, is vital for aspiring candidates. A clear understanding of the exam format ensures better preparation and increases the chances of achieving a high score in the GATE examination.