Preparing for the GATE Aerospace (AE) exam can feel tough. I know how it is — the big syllabus, the pressure to perform, and all the doubts that come with it. Scoring 70+ in the GATE Aerospace exam might sound difficult, but trust me, it’s completely possible.
You don’t have to be a genius or study all day long. What really matters is studying smart, staying consistent, and believing in yourself.
In this blog, I’ll share a simple and real strategy to help you score 70+ in GATE AE. Let’s get started!
1. Know the Exam Inside Out: Pattern & Syllabus for a 70+ Score
Before you jump into preparation, it’s very important to understand how the GATE Aerospace (AE) exam is designed.
If you know the pattern and syllabus clearly, you can plan your study smarter — and save a lot of time and stress later.
Exam Structure
The GATE AE exam has 65 questions for 100 marks. You’ll face:
- MCQs – Choose one correct answer.
- MSQs – More than one correct answer.
- NATs – No options, just type the answer.
Remember, wrong answers in MCQs will cost you marks due to negative marking.
Key Subjects and Weightage
The most important subjects are:
- Aerodynamics, Propulsion, Structures, Flight Mechanics, and more (covers about 70-80 marks).
- Engineering Mathematics (about 13-15 marks).
- General Aptitude (about 15 marks).
While Aerospace is your main focus, don’t ignore Math and Aptitude. They are easier to score and can boost your total marks.
Why Section-Wise Preparation Matters
Focus more on Core Aerospace subjects, but don’t forget Math and Aptitude. They are key to scoring those easy marks and pushing you closer to that 70+ target.
2. Step-by-Step Preparation Strategy for GATE AE That Actually Works
Let’s be honest—you can’t crack GATE AE in a rush. It’s like building a rocket; you need a solid foundation before ignition. Here’s a stress-free, step-by-step plan that has worked for toppers.
Phase 1: Build Strong Fundamentals (First 3 Months)
Focus on Core Subjects First
Aerodynamics, Propulsion, and Flight Mechanics are the backbone of GATE AE. Spend most of your time here. If you understand these well, half the battle is won.
Stick to Standard Textbooks
- Aerodynamics? Anderson is your best friend.
- Propulsion? Farokhi explains things clearly.
- Flight Mechanics? Houghton makes it easy.
Don’t jump into random notes—books build real understanding.
Make Short Notes
While studying, jot down key formulas, concepts, and tricks in a notebook. These will save you during last-minute revisions.
Phase 2: Practice Like Crazy (Months 4-6)
Once your basics are strong, it’s time to practice a lot.
Start solving the last 10 years of GATE Aerospace papers. It will help you understand the kind of questions they ask.
Also, take small topic-wise quizzes. If you are weak in any topic, quizzes will quickly show you where you need more practice.
You can also use GATE-specific study material like Made Easy and ACE books. They are good for targeted practice.
Phase 3: Mock Tests & Time Management (Months 7–8)
Now it’s time to get exam-ready.
Start taking full-length mock tests every week. Try to sit for 3 hours without any break, just like the real exam.
After every test, spend time checking where you made mistakes. Work on improving your speed and accuracy.
Also, start learning some shortcut methods to solve numerical problems faster. A few saved minutes can make a big difference in your final score.
3. What to Focus On: Smart Topic Selection That Saves Time
In GATE Aerospace, not all topics give you the same return. Some are high-weightage, while others can give you quick marks. Here’s how to focus on what matters most.
High-Weightage Topics You Cannot Skip
Focus on core subjects like Aerodynamics, Propulsion, Structures, and Flight Mechanics. These will give you most of the marks, so don’t skip them!
Subjects/Topics That Fetch Quick Marks
Some topics are easier and faster to score, like General Aptitude and certain parts of Engineering Mathematics. They may not be huge but are worth the effort.
Handling Tough Topics: Master or Strategically Skip?
Tough topics like Structures or Space Dynamics can be time-consuming. If you have time, try to master them. But if not, strategically skip them and focus on what will give you more marks.
4. Time Management & Exam-Day Strategy
Time management on exam day can make all the difference. Here’s how you can manage your time wisely:
Allocate Time Wisely (1.5-2 Mins Per Question)
Try to spend about 1.5 to 2 minutes on each question. If you get stuck, move on and come back later. Don’t waste too much time on one question.
Prioritize Easy Questions First (Aptitude & Maths)
Start with the easier questions, especially from Aptitude and Maths. These are quick and simple, so they’ll help you build confidence and score some easy marks.
Avoid Guesswork in MCQs (Negative Marking)
In MCQs, avoid guessing. Wrong answers lead to negative marking, and that can cost you. If you’re not sure about a question, it’s better to leave it and come back if there’s time.
Keep Last 15 Minutes for Review
Leave the last 15 minutes to review your answers. Double-check for any mistakes, and make sure you didn’t miss anything. It’s your chance to catch small errors before you submit.
5. Common Mistakes You Shouldn’t Make
Everyone makes mistakes, but when it comes to GATE, some mistakes can really hurt your score. Here are a few common ones that you should avoid at all costs:
Ignoring Previous Year Papers
Previous year papers are essential! They help you understand the exam pattern and key topics. Make sure to practice them regularly.
Over-Relying on Rote Learning Instead of Concept Clarity
Don’t just memorize—focus on understanding the concepts. GATE tests your ability to apply knowledge, not just recall facts.
Not Taking Mock Tests Seriously
Treat mock tests like the real exam. They help you practice timing, improve speed, and identify weak areas.
Poor Time Management in the Exam
Time management is crucial. Practice pacing yourself during mock tests so you don’t waste time on tough questions and miss out on easier ones.
6. Motivation & Consistency Tips
Staying motivated and consistent is key to success in GATE. Here are some simple tips to help you stay on track:
Follow a Daily Study Schedule (4-6 Hours)
Make a study schedule and stick to it. Aim to study 4-6 hours a day. This will help you stay consistent and cover all your topics.
Join Online Study Groups or Coaching
It’s great to join online study groups where you can solve doubts with others. The best option is to join online coaching classes, where you’ll get structured lessons and expert help.
Stay Healthy (Sleep, Exercise, Breaks)
Don’t ignore your health. Get enough sleep, take short breaks, and do some exercise to keep your mind and body fresh. A healthy routine will help you stay focused and energized.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, the key to scoring 70+ in GATE Aerospace is smart planning, consistent effort, and staying focused. Prioritize your subjects, manage your time wisely, and make sure to practice regularly.
Remember, discipline and focus are your best friends on this journey. Stay consistent, and don’t let small setbacks discourage you.Start today, practice daily, and aim for 70+!