GATE CS 2026 Roadmap | How to Get Under AIR 100 Starting in July | Month-by-Month Prep Strategy

Summary

This video provides a detailed 7-month roadmap to crack the GATE exam with top ranks, especially for those starting their preparation in June or July. It emphasizes consistency over speed in the first two months, focusing on building a strong foundation with subjects like programming, data structures, and digital logic. The plan progresses with a mix of subject learning, revision, mock tests, and test-taking strategies. The final phase is dedicated to revision, polishing knowledge, and analyzing mistakes. The video encourages perseverance, commitment, and effective time management throughout the preparation journey.

Takeaways

• 😀 Don't worry if you're starting your GATE preparation late (June/July) — it's still possible to achieve a top rank with focused effort and consistency.
• 😀 The preparation strategy shared is a 7-month plan that is realistic and focused on the key areas that will help you succeed in GATE 2026.
• 😀 Make a commitment to give 100% to your GATE preparation and not quit halfway through — your results will be determined by your perseverance.
• 😀 In the first two months (July-August), focus on programming, data structures, algorithms, and digital logic. Build a strong foundation with 3 to 4 hours of daily study.
• 😀 Consistency is more important than speed in the early stages of preparation. Show up daily and focus on building momentum, rather than overloading yourself.
• 😀 Throughout your preparation (July to December), solve previous year questions, take subject and topic tests, and make short notes to aid your revision.
• 😀 Study engineering mathematics and discrete mathematics consistently from July to December, dedicating at least 1 hour daily to these subjects.
• 😀 In September and October, pick up the pace by focusing on computer organization, computer networks, and the operating system. Aim for 8 to 9 hours of study per day.
• 😀 By October, aim to complete 50-60% of the syllabus. Start taking full-length mock tests to get used to the format and improve time management and accuracy.
• 😀 In November and December, complete the remaining syllabus, including databases, theory of computation, and compiler design. Continue taking and analyzing mock tests weekly.
• 😀 In January, focus solely on revision. Do not learn new content but polish what you've already studied. Aim for 2-3 mock tests per week and refine your skills until exam day.

Q & A

Can I still get a top rank in GATE if I start my preparation in June or July?

Yes, you can still get a top rank if you start preparing in June or July. The script emphasizes that with dedication and following the right strategy, it is possible to achieve a high rank even with limited preparation time.

What should I do if I have already started my GATE preparation?

If you have already started your preparation, you can refer to the speaker's previous GATE preparation strategy video for further refinement of your approach. The strategy is designed to help you optimize your preparation.

How is the 7-month GATE preparation plan structured?

The 7-month GATE preparation plan is designed to be realistic, focused, and effective. It includes a phased approach, with the first two months dedicated to building consistency and foundational subjects, followed by a gradual increase in hours and complexity of topics. By the end of the plan, the focus shifts to revision and mock tests.

What subjects should I start with in the first two months of preparation?

In the first two months (July and August), focus on programming, data structures, algorithms, and digital logic. These subjects will help build a strong problem-solving mindset and improve your confidence.

How should I manage my daily study time during the initial phase?

In the beginning, aim for 3 to 4 hours of study per day. The focus should be on consistency rather than long hours. Avoid burnout by gradually building momentum.

How should I revise my study material throughout the preparation?

You should revise daily by quickly reviewing what was studied the previous day, highlighting important points, and noting down any areas of confusion. Weekly reviews should also be done to reinforce your learning, alongside maintaining short notes.

What should be the focus during September and October?

In September and October, the focus should be on computer organization, computer networks, and operating systems. These subjects take time to settle, so stick to the plan even if it feels challenging initially.

How many hours should I dedicate to studying in September and October?

By September and October, you should aim for 8 to 9 hours of study per day. This includes a mix of ongoing subject study, topic and subject tests, revisiting older subjects, and a bit of time for engineering mathematics or discrete mathematics.

When should I start taking full-length mock tests?

You should start giving full-length mock tests in October, even if your syllabus is not fully completed. This helps build accuracy, time management, and a test-taking mindset.

What is the focus during November and December?

In November and December, focus on completing the remaining subjects (databases, theory of computation, and compiler design). Continue taking mock tests, revising regularly, and working on any weak areas or mistakes.

How should I prepare during the revision phase in January?

In January, focus only on revision. Do not attempt to learn new material. Revise using short notes, and aim to take two to three mock tests per week. Analyze your performance to identify and correct mistakes, and focus on polishing your knowledge.

What is the biggest regret according to the speaker in this preparation process?

The speaker mentions that the biggest regret is not about failing, but about not giving your 100% effort when you had the chance. The key to success is persistence and dedication throughout the preparation journey.