Hello everyone! I’m Sarika Sowmya Munagavalasa, a third-year Computer Science Engineering (CSE) student at GMR Institute of Technology with a CGPA of 9.35. I'm from Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. In 2024, I decided to take the GATE exam in Computer Science—not with a major goal in mind, but simply to experience it. With no coaching, no full-fledged preparation, and just a hint of curiosity, I wanted to understand what the exam was all about. Believe it or not, I only revised matrices the night before the exam. Despite the casual approach, I scored 19.17 marks—a result that I’m super proud of, especially considering how spontaneous it was!
Preparation Phase
Study Materials and Resources
I didn't adhere to any specific resources. Brushing up on matrices overnight before the test was my sole preparation. No extensive reference books, no course on the net—just curiosity and college education.
Study Schedule and Strategy
No schedule whatsoever. I neither adopted a routine nor stressed myself. I just went in with an attitude to actually feel the atmosphere of GATE and analyse how I compared.
Coaching Classes and Online Resources
No training. No online cram courses. Myself and a notebook. This was an innocent attempt through interest, with no pressure from the outside.
Exam Day Experience
Exam Environment
On the day of the exam, as I walked into the center, it felt like walking into a mini airport: metal detectors, biometric screening, and ultra-serious invigilators all over. But in spite of it all, the atmosphere was kind of cool.
Inside the Hall
I began with General Aptitude, and honestly—it was a cakewalk! The questions were easy and scoring. That section immediately gave me a boost of confidence. Then there were the Engineering Mathematics and Core Subjects. I went through the matrix-related questions easily . But when I encountered complex integrals and unfamiliar topics, I didn't panic. I just did my best and moved on with a clear mind.
Dealing with the Pressure
Because I wasn't looking for a rank or a PSU, I was relatively relaxed. That attitude kept me in the right frame of mind and positive during the test. I skipped what I didn't understand and answered wherever I could confidently. It wasn't perfection—it was discovering my potential.
Post-Exam Reflection
First Impressions
As I exited, I felt a strange combination of satisfaction and drowsiness.
Insights Gained
You don't have to know everything—self-confidence in fundamentals works wonders. General Aptitude can be an actual score booster. A clear head works better than panic. The experience itself teaches you more than any practice test at times.
What I Would Do Differently
If I were to attempt GATE again, I would:
- Prioritize Weaker Topics: I would focus more on areas where I felt less confident.
- Solve Mock Tests: To improve time management skills and familiarize myself with the exam pattern.
- Be More Consistent: Regular preparation would definitely be better than last-minute cramming.
- Study Beyond Matrices: I’d explore other important topics and not just rely on matrices.
Conclusion and Tips
Overall Experience
Trying GATE was one of the best impulsive decisions I ever took. It helped me realize my current level and provided me with clarity on how to proceed if I wish to attempt it seriously in the future. It increased my confidence, and frankly—it was enjoyable!
Tips for First-Time or Casual GATE Aspirants
- Don't be afraid to try—even with minimal prep, the experience is worth it.
- Revise your basics well—especially topics like matrices and logic.
- General Aptitude is a gem—don’t underestimate it.
- Stay calm and curious—you’ll be surprised how far it takes you.
Final Thoughts
You don't need a perfect plan to do something worthwhile. In some cases, just jumping in curiously and confidently can ignite something greater. GATE learned more about me than just topics—and for that, I'll always be thankful.