n Computer Science and Engineering (CSE), Data Structures & Algorithms (10–12%) and Computer Organization & Architecture (8–10%) are frequently tested. For Civil Engineering (CE), Geotechnical Engineering (12–14%) and Environmental Engineering (8–10%) are among the most important areas. In Engineering Mathematics, topics such as Calculus (10–12%), Linear Algebra (8–10%), and Real & Complex Analysis (6–8%) regularly appear in the exam and carry significant marks.
Did you know that almost 60–70% of GATE questions come from a handful of topics repeated year after year? The list of most commonly asked topics in GATE in the last 5 years includes subjects with consistently high weightage. In Computer Science and Engineering (CSE), Data Structures & Algorithms (10–12%) and Computer Organization & Architecture (8–10%) are frequently tested. For Civil Engineering (CE), Geotechnical Engineering (12–14%) and Environmental Engineering (8–10%) are among the most important areas. In Engineering Mathematics, topics such as Calculus (10–12%), Linear Algebra (8–10%), and Real & Complex Analysis (6–8%) regularly appear in the exam and carry significant marks.
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a highly competitive exam conducted for admission into postgraduate courses and recruitment into the public sector. The GATE exam is a 3-hour exam. Each paper comprises 65 questions totaling 100 marks.
Most Commonly Asked Topics in GATE in the last 5 years – Subject‑Wise Breakdown
If you are preparing for the GATE exam, focusing on the most commonly asked topics is a must. These areas are not only important but also high-scoring, as multiple
| Discipline | Weightage (%) | Frequently Asked Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science & IT (CSE) | - General Aptitude: ~15%- Engineering Mathematics: ~13%- Core Subjects: ~72% | - Data Structures & Algorithms (Arrays, Trees, Recursion, Sorting, MSTs)- Operating Systems (Deadlocks, Synchronization, Paging, Semaphores, Pipelining)- Computer Organization & Architecture (COA)- Computer Networks (Subnetting, ARQ Protocols, TCP/IP)- Database Management Systems (Normalization, Transactions, SQL)- Discrete Mathematics (Set Theory, Graphs, Logic) |
| Civil Engineering (CE) | - General Aptitude: 15%- Engineering Mathematics: ~12%- Core Subjects: ~73% | - Geotechnical Engineering- Environmental Engineering- Transportation Engineering- Fluid Mechanics- Strength of Materials- RCC & Structural Analysis |
| Mathematics (MA) | - General Aptitude: 15%- Core Mathematics: 85% | - Calculus (Single & Multivariable)- Linear Algebra (Matrices, Eigenvalues)- Real Analysis- Complex Analysis- Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs)- Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) |
| Electrical Engineering (EE) | - General Aptitude: 15%- Engineering Mathematics: ~13%- Core Subjects: ~72% | - Electrical Machines- Control Systems- Power Systems- Network Theory |
| Mechanical Engineering (ME) | - General Aptitude: 15%- Engineering Mathematics: ~13%- Core Subjects: ~72% | - Thermodynamics- Strength of Materials- Machine Design- Fluid Mechanics |
| Electronics & Communication (ECE) | - General Aptitude: 15%- Engineering Mathematics: ~13%- Core Subjects: ~72% | - Signals & Systems- Analog & Digital Circuits- Communication Systems |
Top 10 Repeated GATE Topics Across All Branches
By analyzing past years’ GATE papers, certain topics emerge as consistently high-yield areas, appearing year after year across multiple branches. Focusing on these can significantly improve your chances of scoring well. The most repeated topics include:
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General Aptitude
This section will be of 20 marks, frequently asked to check your basic ability, reasoning, and English skills.
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Data Structures & Algorithms
Key for CSE aspirants, focusing on stacks, queues, trees, graphs, and sorting/searching algorithms.
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Operating Systems & COA
Questions often involve process management, memory allocation, pipelining, and cache organization.
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Computer Networks / DBMS
Includes protocols, the OSI model, SQL queries, normalization, and transaction management.
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Structural/Geotechnical/Fluid Mechanics
High-weightage subjects in CE with recurring concepts in soil mechanics, stress analysis, and fluid flow.
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Calculus & Linear Algebra
Fundamental topics in Engineering Mathematics with applications across all branches.
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Thermodynamics / Mechanics
Frequently tested in Mechanical and related branches, involving laws of thermodynamics and force analysis.
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Power Systems / Control
Important for EE, covering power generation, fault analysis, and control system stability.
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Signals & Electronics
Crucial for EC aspirants, involving signal transformations, filters, semiconductors, and op-amp circuits.
Read More: Key Topics of Electrical Engineering to Focus on for GATE 2026 First Attempt
Avoid These Mistakes When Prioritizing GATE High-Yield Topics 2026
Skipping General Aptitude
If you ignore it, thinking it’s too basic, but it carries 15 easy marks that can boost your score significantly.
Not practicing MSQs and NATs
These question types don’t have negative marking, so they’re great chances to score. Don’t miss out by not practicing them.
Trying to cover everything shallowly
It’s better to fully understand a few important topics than to touch all of them. Depth wins over surface-level knowledge.
Ignoring your weak areas
Just because a topic is trending doesn’t mean you can skip over your personal weak spots. Even one weak topic can cost you marks.
Not revising enough
Just studying once isn’t enough. Make time to revise important concepts to really lock them in regularly.
Avoiding mock tests
If you’re not practicing with full-length mocks, you’re missing out on building your speed and stamina. The GATE exam is long — you need to train for it.
Check This: Important Computer Science Topics for GATE 2026 First-Time Aspirants
Try focusing on repeated topics in every subject to cover a wide area of preparation. General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics, and core technical subjects are the main areas to be prepared for. Attempt as many mock tests as you can and practice previous year question papers. This will help you manage speed and know the GATE exam pattern.
