GATE PE study plan

Map the GATE PE syllabus section by section and tag each topic as strong, weak, or unseen to build a personal priority list

Derive and re-derive the core thermodynamic relations (first and second law for open and closed systems, Maxwell relations) from memory without notes

Solve 15 numerical problems on vapor power cycles and rankine cycle efficiency, tracking error types in a log

Set up a formula sheet organized by subject area that will be updated every week

Analyze fluid statics and manometry problems involving inclined surfaces and layered fluids

Apply Bernoulli and energy equations to pipe flow networks, computing head losses with friction factor correlations

Compute dimensionless groups (Reynolds, Nusselt, Prandtl) and interpret their physical meaning for convection problems

Solve 20 mixed fluid mechanics and heat transfer numericals under a 90-minute timer

Derive and apply conduction, convection, and radiation heat transfer correlations to heat exchanger sizing using LMTD and effectiveness-NTU methods

Solve combustion stoichiometry problems for air-fuel ratio, excess air, and adiabatic flame temperature

Explain construction and working of reciprocating and rotary compressors, including multistage compression with intercooling

Solve 15 problems on IC engine performance parameters (indicated and brake power, specific fuel consumption, thermal efficiency)

Apply strength of materials fundamentals: stress-strain relations, principal stresses via Mohr's circle, and failure theories

Analyze beams for shear force and bending moment diagrams across point, distributed, and moment loads

Solve problems on torsion of circular shafts and combined bending-torsion loading

Compute buckling loads using Euler and Rankine-Gordon formulas for different end conditions

Solve problems on kinematic mechanisms, velocity and acceleration analysis, and gear trains

Analyze balancing of rotating and reciprocating masses and compute critical speeds of shafts

Apply vibration theory to single-degree-of-freedom systems, computing natural frequency and damping ratio

Solve 15 machine design problems covering bearings, springs, and bolted and welded joints

Solve production planning and control problems: EOQ, MRP logic, scheduling rules, and work study time standards

Apply inventory and quality control tools including control charts and process capability indices

Solve operations research problems on linear programming, transportation, and assignment models

Compute forecasting values using moving average, exponential smoothing, and regression

Revise the entire formula sheet and consolidate all previously logged errors into a single correction list

Solve previous-style numerical questions from every syllabus section in a mixed sequence to build switching stamina

Practice 10 numerical answer-type questions where the answer is a single number, focusing on calculation speed and unit discipline

Review weak topics flagged in week 6 and close at least three of them with targeted practice

Complete two final full-length timed mocks under exam conditions and review every incorrect response

Rehearse the formula sheet and correction list daily so recall is automatic

Practice time allocation strategy across sections and decide the order of attempting questions

Rest and taper: reduce new material intake and focus on confidence and accuracy of known topics