GATE Syllabus 2026: Preparation tips, best books for MTech aspirants

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati will conduct the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) 2026 exam on February 7, 8, 14, and 15 in two shifts. The GATE 2026 exam will be held for 30 subjects. Candidates should make sure start their GATE 2026 preparation early on so that they can cover each topic efficiently with the help of the best books.

This year, IIT Guwahati has introduced a new sectional paper on Energy Science (XE-1) in the engineering science (XE) paper. GATE 2026 exam will be held in the forenoon shift from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, and the afternoon shift will take place from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm

As per the GATE 2026 exam pattern, the computer science exam will be held for a total of 100 marks. The GATE 2026 paper will comprise questions on engineering mathematics of 13 marks, general aptitude carrying 15 marks, and subject-based questions of 72 marks. Each question will either carry one or two marks.

As per the GATE 2026 marking scheme, candidates will be negative marking in MCQs; one-third marks will be deducted for wrong answers in 1-mark MCQs, and two-thirds marks will be cut for incorrect responses in 2-mark MCQs.

IIT Guwahati will issue GATE 2026 admit card on the official website, gate2026.iitg.ac.in. GATE 2026 results will be announced on March 19, as per the schedule.

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GATE 2026: Preparation tips

Candidates appearing for the GATE 2026 exam can prepare for the MTech entrance exam without coaching if they start preparing early. A few tips for GATE exam 2026 preparation are listed below.

Start Preparation Early

MTech aspirants should start preparing early so that there will be enough time to cover the GATE syllabus. Once the preparation is complete, students will have ample time for revision. Pick books that explain the concepts clearly and simply.

Follow a fix schedule

Candidates should follow a study plan to prepare for the GATE exam. By having a proper study plan, candidates will be able to track their progress. This way, candidates assess their strengths and weaknesses and prepare accordingly.

Consult with teachers and peers to clear confusion

During GATE exam preparation, whenever confusion arises, effective communication is the best way to resolve it. Engaging in discussions with fellow students and teachers helps clarify doubts and strengthen understanding. Discussing concepts and topics with peers or mentors is always beneficial for better learning.

Manage time effectively

As the GATE examination lasts three hours, preparation should also focus on developing effective time management skills. Poor time management can increase the risk of being unable to attempt all the questions before the exam concludes. The way to practise time management is by practising GATE previous years' papers and solving mock tests.

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GATE 2026: Books for preparation

Some of the best books by various authors for GATE 2026 syllabus preparation are given in the table below.