Counted amongst the most prestigious gateways to premium master’s and doctoral programs in the country, the GATE 2021Examis now scheduled to be held from Feb 5^th/6^th/7^th/12^th/13^th/14^th 2021. The late window of application forms has been extended to 12^th Oct 2020. This year, the exam will be conducted by IIT Bombay. Out of the total 65 questions, General Aptitude for GATE 2021 accounts for 10 questions [15 marks]. If you are struggling with the how to prepare Aptitude for GATE, here we present the best preparation tips to tackle the GATE Aptitude questions.

How to Prepare Aptitude for GATE 2021: Exam Pattern

As you may already know, there are two sections, namely, an Optional Subject along with General Aptitude for GATE 2021. Recently, there have been additions of two new optional subjects. The following table throws more light on the important details of the exam.

General Aptitude for GATE 2021: Preparation Tips

As mentioned above, the 10 General Aptitude questions for GATE account for 15 marks and if you prepare for it diligently, it can be a sure-shot source of marks as well as a much-needed head start. The General Aptitude questions for the GATE section is further divided into Verbal Ability and Numerical Ability. More on how to tackle each portion is elaborated below.

• Verbal Ability:This section tests the candidate’s grasp over English Grammar, Vocabulary, Sentence Syntax, Critical Analysis and Inference capabilities.
• The common GATE Aptitude questions include identifying the correct or incorrect sentence, error detection and sentence completion. The examiners typically play with the verb forms, tenses, voices, direct and indirect speech and like. Thus, it is extremely important that you are well-versed with foundational English grammar and composition rules.
• The next front which is tested is Vocabulary through word groups and verbal analogies. Apart from synonyms and antonyms, you must also emphasise on the multiple meanings of words, the different contexts it is commonly used and if provided a statement, in which context it is being employed.
• The next category of questions are presented to you in form of arguments or cases from which you will be expected to draw inferences, counter arguments, connect pieces of information. Further, you may be given possible assumptions or statements that may weaken or strength the stipulated argument. There is no other way to solve such type of questions than to follow the logic carefully and identify the various elements of the case. Often, you will have to deal with complex cases, misleading arguments or conflicting statements.
• Important Books: Objective General English’ by S.P. Bakshi, Wren & Martin’s ‘English Language & Comprehension’, and ‘Word Power Made Easy’ by Norman Lewis.
  

• Numerical Ability: The NA portion consists of questions on computation, estimation, reasoning and data interpretation.
• Typical easy topics include Ratio & Proportion, Number System, Types of numbers, Speed & Distance, Simplification, Percentages, Profit & Loss, Average, HCF & LCM, Simple & Compound Interest, Clocks, Time & Distance, Basic Geometry, Ages, Logical Inference, Cost-Profit, Directions, Radix Numbers, Data Interpretation. Cement your understanding of these topics as more often than not, you may find it on your exam.
• A few of the advanced topics include Quadratic equations, advanced probability is rarely asked in an overtly difficult way. Thus, it comes in handy to have gone through them at least once.
• The Data Interpretation section of the General Aptitude questions for GATE often asked in sets, requires you to apply and analyze multiple concepts in tandem. This is where the basic numerical concepts as well as critical analysis and problem-solving skills are thoroughly examined.
• Divide your preparation period into two clearly defined phases, namely, phase 1 where you solidify the fundamental portion via problems and short time-based mock tests. Then, move on to phase 2 wherein you should attempt longer length exercises along with 1-2 mock test every two days. Assess your progress continuously, delineate strong and weak areas and improve gradually.
• In order to retain better and more vividly, incorporate innovative learning techniques such as mnemonics, flow charts, diagrams, mind maps, quizzes, puzzles and games to memorize formulae and theorems. Further, take regular aid of online tutorials, explanatory videos, assessment and feedback sessions as much as you can.
• Important Books:Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by RS Aggarwal; A Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by RS Aggarwal;

How to Prepare Aptitude for GATE: Key Takeaways

• Time Management: Considering that you have 3 hours [180 minutes] for 100 questions, efficiently managing the given time around the sections is critical. Ideally, the more time you devote to the Optional Paper, the better. Thus, we suggest to get done with as much GATE Aptitude questions in the first 15-20 minutes and leave the tricky ones or those which you feel may take too much time. Complete the other sections and then come back to rest GATE Aptitude questions, if any, at the end.
• Starting Tactic: Always have a brief glance over theGeneral Aptitude questions for GATE and shortlist the straightforward questions on ratios, percentages, equations, averages, etc. and get done with it right at the start. Then, move on to the rest.
• Revision: Remember to leave at least 15 minutes at the end of the paper to look over the calculations, correct markings and all the questions which you have found it hard. Do not leave the hall early.
• Temperament: Having a positive and optimizing outlook has a huge positive bearing on your performance.

Finding the right answer to the ‘how to prepare Aptitude for GATE’ question lies in your hands. Buckle up and give your best.