Mastering GATE 2018 Mechanical: A Comprehensive Guide to Scoring 50

Introduction to the GATE Mechanism

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is an all-India examination to assess the students' fundamental knowledge in engineering and can be a key factor in your career advancement in India. For the specific branch of Mechanical Engineering, securing at least 50 out of 100 marks is considered a strong performance. Let's understand how to strategize and execute a plan to achieve this goal.

Strategizing Your GATE Preparation

The first and foremost step towards achieving a high score in GATE is to determine a strategic plan. GATE 2018 for Mechanical Engineering consists of various sections: Engg. Mathematics (15% of total marks), General Aptitude (15%), and Engineering Topics (70%).

Engg. Mathematics

Engg. Mathematics forms the backbone of the GATE preparation. It carries a total of 15 marks, which can be quickly mastered. To achieve this, start by completing all the core mathematics topics. Spend around 4 to 6 weeks to fully grasp these concepts and solve practice problems. Recommended resources include NCERT textbooks, standard engineering mathematics books, and online courses like NPTEL.

General Aptitude

The General Aptitude section is equally important and carries a total of 15 marks. This section includes questions on verbal comprehension and logical reasoning. Dedicate about 2 to 3 weeks to cover this area, focusing on both verbal and logical reasoning. Practice solving test series and previous years' questions to improve your accuracy. Recommended resources include previous GATE papers and mock tests from platforms like MadeEasy.

Focusing on Technical Sections

Once you have a strong grasp on Engg. Mathematics and General Aptitude, it's time to delve into the technical sections. These sections carry 70% of the total marks and are further divided into sub-sections like Production/Industrial Engineering and Engineering Mechanics.

Option 1: Mechanics

If you are strong in engineering mechanics, start by thoroughly preparing this section which carries a minimum of 15 marks. Spend around 6 to 8 weeks on this, revisiting concepts through textbooks, online lectures, and practice problems. Engage with resources like the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) and other online platforms.

Option 2: Thermal Engineering

If technical mechanics is not your forte, you can focus on related topics within thermal engineering, which also carries a minimum of 15 marks. This approach is often more beneficial as it is generally perceived as less challenging. Allocate around 6 to 8 weeks to this section, using a combination of self-study resources and online courses.

Finalizing Your Preparation

After setting a solid foundation, allocate some time to focus on the remaining parts of the syllabus. This includes carefully reviewing formulas, solving unsolved problems, and analyzing previous GATE papers. This negligible amount of effort (approximately 2 to 3 weeks) can secure you the additional 10 marks needed.

Key Tips for Success

1. Handwritten Notes: Purchase or download handwritten notes from reliable sources on the internet. These notes can be extremely helpful in summarizing key concepts and formulas. 2. Previous Year Papers: Solve as many previous year GATE papers as possible. This will help you understand the exam pattern and improve your time management. Consider purchasing a comprehensive book like MadeEasy's 30 years of GATE questions. 3. Study Series: Enroll in a reputed test series program. Regular practice is crucial for achieving a high score. These programs often provide valuable feedback and insights. 4. Regular Study Schedule: Stick to a strict study schedule, dedicating specific hours each day to different subject areas. Consistency is key to scoring well in GATE. 5. Mental Preparation: Believe in your ability to achieve the score. Confidence is a significant factor in performance on such highly competitive exams.

Conclusion

While it is feasible to aim for 50 marks, a well-structured preparation plan can help you easily secure more than 70 marks. Follow the outlined strategy, remain consistent, and don't hesitate to seek help or advice from peers or experts. Good luck with your GATE 2018 preparation!