Clearing the GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) can be considered as a great achievement for the engineering candidates who are looking forward to join M.Tech, PSU or for research purpose. A typical question that students ask is:
Is it possible to clear GATE without Mathematics?
To answer the question directly: Yes, it is possible but it would be hard. Engineering Mathematics is one of the important sections in GATE and has the maximum of 13-15 marks. Skipping this section entirely would reduce the chances of good ranking especially when the competition is stiff.
Why Is Mathematics Important in GATE?
|
Aspect |
Explanation |
|---|---|
|
Weightage |
Engineering Mathematics typically carries 13-15 marks in most GATE papers. |
|
Scoring Potential |
It is considered a scoring subject if prepared well. |
|
Relevance |
Concepts from mathematics are linked to technical subjects in many streams. |
|
Conceptual Base |
Strong maths foundation helps in problem-solving in core subjects. |
Which Streams Require Less Maths in GATE?
Some GATE papers like Humanities and Social Sciences (XH) or Architecture and Planning (AR) have little to no Engineering Mathematics. But for core branches like:
-
Mechanical
-
Civil
-
Electrical
-
Computer Science
-
Electronics
Skipping mathematics is not advisable at all.
Is There Any Way to Minimize the Role of Maths in GATE Prep?
Yes, here’s how you can approach GATE smartly even if you're weak in math:
|
Strategy |
How It Helps |
|---|---|
|
Focus more on core technical subjects |
These carry more weight in the paper. |
|
Master General Aptitude |
This section carries 15 marks and is usually easier to score in. |
|
Study selected math topics |
Not all math topics are equally tough. Prioritize easier or high-weightage topics. |
|
Practice with mock tests |
Understand the pattern and importance of each section. |
However, ignoring maths completely can be risky, especially if your core subject scores don’t compensate enough.
What Are the Key Sections of GATE Exam?
|
Section |
Weightage (Approx) |
|---|---|
|
Engineering Mathematics |
13-15 Marks |
|
General Aptitude |
15 Marks |
|
Subject-Specific Core |
70 Marks |
Thus, despite the fact that it is possible to prepare for GATE without mathematics, it is advisable not to do so as it may cost you a good number of marks.
Is It Possible to Replace Maths with Aptitude in GATE?
Yes, General Aptitude is considered important and is given 15 marks, and the questions asked are comparatively easier. You should try to study with a powerful GATE aptitude book to get the best of it for this section. However, aptitude cannot take the place of Engineering Mathematics fully, especially when it comes to technical papers.
Is it advisable to use GATE Maths Resources in Case I am Weak?
Yes, instead of skipping, try to find out what is the basic understanding of each one. It is possible to start with the basics and then add on to it. Thus, practicing through a bold GATE maths book or through engineering mathematics book for GATE can boost up the confidence level as well as the scores.
Final Thoughts
However, doing GATE without mathematics is possible but it will be very difficult for you to go through the examination. It is therefore possible to perform well and get a reasonable score if one is able to strategize and concentrate on areas such as General Aptitude and a few Mathematics areas. But as you will see, Engineering Mathematics is one of the major components in the GATE exam preparation.
