Introduction
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a national level examination conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) for admission to postgraduate programs in engineering, technology, and architecture. The GATE exam is conducted in various disciplines, including chemistry. In this article, we will discuss all about GATE chemistry, including the exam pattern, syllabus, preparation tips, and more.
Exam Pattern
The GATE chemistry exam is a computer-based test that consists of 65 questions, with a total of 100 marks. The exam duration is three hours, and the questions are of both multiple-choice and numerical answer type. The exam is divided into two sections: General Aptitude and Chemistry.
The General Aptitude section consists of 10 questions, with a total of 15 marks. This section tests the candidate’s verbal and numerical ability. The Chemistry section consists of 55 questions, with a total of 85 marks. This section tests the candidate’s knowledge of physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry.
Important Dates
The important dates for the GATE exam are as follows:
1. Regular online registration/application process: September
2. Last date for change of category, paper, and examination city and adding a new paper (an additional fee will be applicable per change): Second Week of November
3. Admit card will be available for download: First week of January
5. GATE Examination: 01st February – 14th February
6. Announcement of the Results in the Online Application Portal: March
Note: The dates mentioned here are generally observed. These may change.
Syllabus
The GATE chemistry syllabus is divided into three sections: Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry. The following is a brief overview of the topics covered in each section:
Physical Chemistry:
– Basic principles and concepts of physical chemistry
– Thermodynamics
– Chemical equilibrium
– Electrochemistry
– Chemical kinetics
– Solid-state chemistry
– Surface chemistry
Organic Chemistry:
– Basic principles and concepts of organic chemistry
– Stereochemistry
– Reaction mechanisms
– Organic synthesis
– Spectroscopy
– Bioorganic chemistry
Inorganic Chemistry:
– Basic principles and concepts of inorganic chemistry
– Chemical bonding and molecular structure
– Main group elements and their compounds
– Transition elements and their compounds
– Organometallic compounds
– Bioinorganic chemistry
Preparation Tips
Preparing for the GATE chemistry exam requires a lot of hard work and dedication. Here are some tips that can help you prepare for the exam:
1. Understand the exam pattern and syllabus: Before you start preparing for the exam, it is essential to understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. This will help you plan your preparation strategy accordingly.
2. Make a study plan: Once you have understood the exam pattern and syllabus, make a study plan that suits your schedule. Divide your time equally among the three sections and allocate more time to the topics that you find difficult.
3. Study from the right sources: There are many books and study materials available for GATE chemistry preparation. However, it is essential to choose the right sources that cover the entire syllabus and provide in-depth knowledge of the topics. ASAP CHEMTIME’s study material and offline classes are best for GATE Chemistry Preparation.
4. Practice previous year question papers: Practicing previous year question papers is an excellent way to understand the exam pattern and the type of questions asked in the exam. It also helps in improving time management skills and identifying weak areas.
5. Take mock tests: Taking mock tests is an essential part of GATE chemistry preparation. It helps in evaluating your preparation level and identifying areas that need improvement. It also helps in improving time management skills and reducing exam stress. Test Series Provided by ASAP CHEMTIME is the best test series in the country and also is pocket friendly.
6. Revise regularly: Revision is crucial for retaining the concepts and formulas. Make sure to revise the topics regularly and solve practice questions to reinforce your understanding.
7. Stay updated with current affairs: The General Aptitude section of the GATE chemistry exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of current affairs. Stay updated with the latest news and events by reading newspapers and magazines regularly.
Benefits of Clearing GATE:
Clearing the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a significant achievement for any engineering student. GATE is a national level examination that tests the comprehensive understanding of undergraduate subjects in engineering, technology, and architecture. Here are some of the benefits of clearing GATE:
1. Admission to Postgraduate Programs: Clearing GATE is a minimum requirement for admission to postgraduate programs in engineering, technology, and architecture at prestigious institutes like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and other top engineering colleges in India. GATE scores are also accepted by many universities abroad for admission to postgraduate programs.
2. Job Opportunities: Many Departments of Central Government utilize the GATE Score for the recruitment of Scientists such as in Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) etc. Many Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in India also use GATE scores for recruitment of engineers in various disciplines. Some of the PSUs that recruit through GATE are Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), and National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC). Clearing GATE also opens up job opportunities in research and development organizations, private companies, and academic institutions.
3. Scholarships and Fellowships: Many government organizations and private companies offer scholarships and fellowships to students who clear GATE. The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) offers a scholarship of Rs. 12,400 per month to GATE qualified students pursuing postgraduate programs in engineering, technology, and architecture at IITs and NITs. Many other organizations like the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) also offer fellowships to GATE qualified students.
4. Higher Salary: Clearing GATE can also lead to higher salary packages in both government and private sectors. Many PSUs offer higher pay scales to GATE qualified engineers compared to non-GATE qualified engineers. Private companies also prefer GATE qualified candidates for higher positions and offer better salary packages.
5. Personal Growth: Preparing for GATE requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and discipline. Clearing GATE not only opens up career opportunities but also helps in personal growth and development. It enhances problem-solving skills, analytical skills, and time management skills, which are essential for success in any field.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the GATE chemistry exam is a challenging exam that requires a lot of hard work and dedication. Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus, making a study plan, studying from the right sources, practicing previous year question papers, taking mock tests, revising regularly, and staying updated with current affairs are some of the essential tips for GATE chemistry preparation. With the right preparation strategy and consistent efforts, you can crack the GATE chemistry exam and secure admission to your dream postgraduate program.