Table of Contents:
- What is the “Gate Mathematics Syllabus 2026”?
- Breakdown: Gate Mathematics Syllabus 2026 — Topic‑Wise
- Gate Mathematics Syllabus 2026 Weightage
- GATE Exam Pattern – Mathematics Paper (MA) vs Engineering Mathematics Section
- Exam Day Strategy & Tips for GATE Mathematics Syllabus
- Recommended Books & Resources for GATE Mathematics Syllabus
- Summary & Quick Overview Table for GATE syllabus of Mathematics
What is the “Gate Mathematics Syllabus 2026”?
The GATE exam mathematics syllabus mainly includes the set of maths topics, whether you’re writing MA (Math paper) or the mathematics section (Engineering Mathematics) in your core branch like CSE, EE, ME, etc.
- The full syllabus is maths will be included in the Mathematics (MA) paper
- For other branches, you’ll see the engineering mathematics syllabus for GATE (or “Engineering Mathematics” or “Mathematics section”) as one of the sections in your subject paper.
So when we say GATE mathematics syllabus 2026, we’re referring both to:
- The full syllabus if you’re writing MA
- The mathematics portion within branch papers
Breakdown: Gate Mathematics Syllabus 2026 — Topic‑Wise
Always refer to the official website for GATE Syllabus 2026. We have shared topic‑wise breakdown for the GATE mathematics syllabus 2026 (especially for MA and Engineering Mathematics sections) in the table below:
|
Major Topic / Section |
Typical Subtopics / Key Areas |
|
Linear Algebra |
Matrices, determinants, inverse, rank; System of linear equations; Eigenvalues / Eigenvectors; Diagonalization; Cayley–Hamilton; Orthogonal transformations. |
|
Calculus |
Limits, continuity, differentiability; Mean Value Theorem, Taylor / Maclaurin; Integrals (definite & improper); Multiple integrals; Maxima / minima; Series, power series; Fourier series; Vector calculus (gradient, divergence, curl); Line / surface / volume integrals; Green / Stokes / Gauss theorems. |
|
Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) |
Method of variation of parameters; Series solutions; Initial / boundary value problems, First and second order linear ODEs (including constant/variable coefficients); and Cauchy–Euler equation; |
|
Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) |
Basic equations like heat equation, wave equation, Laplace’s equation, Classification of PDEs; Method of separation of variables; |
|
Complex Variables |
Cauchy–Riemann equations; Complex numbers, analytic functions; Contour integrals; Taylor & Laurent series; Residue theorem. Cauchy’s theorem, Cauchy integral formula; |
|
Probability & Statistics |
Probability axioms; Mean, variance, distributions (Binomial, Poisson, Normal); Conditional probability & Bayes’ theorem; ; Correlation & regression Random variables. |
|
Numerical Methods / Approximation |
Root finding (Newton-Raphson, etc.); Interpolation (Lagrange, Newton); Numerical integration (Trapezoidal, Simpson); Solving ODEs numerically (Euler, Runge‑Kutta, etc.). |
If you’re writing the MA paper, there could be more depth in these topics.
Gate Mathematics Syllabus 2026 Weightage
Here’s a rough estimation of how different topics appears in terms of marks (based on past papers and syllabus analyses):
|
Topic |
Approx. Weightage |
|
Linear Algebra |
~10 % |
|
Vector / Vector Calculus / Multivariate Calculus |
~15‑20 % |
|
Complex Variables |
~8‑12 % |
|
ODE / PDE |
~10 % |
|
Probability & Statistics |
~10‑15 % |
|
Numerical Methods |
~5‑8 % |
These numbers shift slightly year to year.
GATE Exam Pattern – Mathematics Paper (MA) vs Engineering Mathematics Section
Must know the exam format before diving into exam preparation:
|
Feature |
MA (Mathematics) Paper |
Mathematics Section in Branch Paper |
|
Total Marks |
100 |
Usually 15–20% of total subject paper (varies by branch) |
|
No. of Questions |
65 |
Depends on subject, but “Engineering Mathematics” is a fixed subset |
|
General Aptitude |
Yes (15 marks) |
Shared across entire paper in branch exams |
|
Types of Questions |
MCQ (1 or 2 marks), MSQ, NAT |
Same variety in subject exams |
|
Negative Marking |
For MCQs: 1/3 for 1-mark, 2/3 for 2-marks |
Same rules in the subject exam portion |
|
Duration |
3 hours |
Entire exam still 3 hours (shared among all sections) |
For MA, the mathematics component is everything (except General Aptitude). For branch papers (e.g. CSE), the engineering mathematics syllabus for GATE is an important fixed section.
Exam Day Strategy & Tips for GATE Mathematics Syllabus
Here’s a practical tips and strategies that can help you score higher in your GATE math exam:
(a) Start by downloading the official GATE mathematics syllabus pdf download
- Always prefer to download the official syllabus PDF from the GATE website or organizing institute (IIT Guwahati for 2026).
- Make use of this mathematics syllabus pdf to mark topics once completed
- Always trust the official version (some coaching sites may show outdated or slightly altered modules)
(b) Make a time table or schedule by weightage
- Give more time to topics that historically carry more weightage (e.g. Calculus, Vector Calculus, Linear Algebra).
- In early months, work on concept building plus little practice
- In middle months, do topic-wise practice along with past year question papers
- During last 2–3 months, practice full mocks along with revision of weak topics
(c) Concept first, then problem solving
- Don’t jump into solving complex problems before you understand the basic topics (definitions, theorems, etc).
- For each topic, maintain your own short notes or cheat sheet of important formulas.
- Solve 5–10 problems related to that concept after completing it.
(d) Practice Previous Year Questions (PYQs) smartly
- Solve the PYQs for each topic after finishing it
- Check mistakes immediately, whether conceptual, calculation, or silly error.
- PYQs also helps you understand how topics are asked in exam style
- Note the time you are taking to solve a problem, try to complete easy topics in lesser duration to have more time left for difficult problems.
(e) Use mock tests and timed tests
- Take complete mock tests under exam conditions.
- Do topic wise tests to build speed and accuracy.
- After each mock, maintain an error log, note down mistakes and revisit topics.
(f) Frequent revision & spaced repetition
- Every month, revisit old topics
- Maintain collective revision sessions (by combining 2 or more topics
- Keep revising Formula sheets daily in the last month.
(g) Focus on clarity, not volume
- If you have limited time, ensure the topics you cover are crystal-clear rather than going through everything in urgency
- It’s better to do less topics thoroughly and get full marks from them than to half-learn many topics.
(h) Use multiple sources & cross-check
- Sometimes one author’s explanation may feel confusing; refer to another book or video to clarify the concept
- Use video/lecture support only when stuck — don’t overdo it; go back to problem-solving as your main tool.
(i) Maintain a balanced schedule
- Don’t overdo maths at the cost of other subjects (if you’re in a branch).
- Take breaks, sleep, and give regular rest
- Consistent small study habits beats last-minute struggles.
Recommended Books & Resources for GATE Mathematics Syllabus
Check out some of the best books and online resources that many successful candidates use to score high in GATE Mathematics. These books will help you to master the GATE mathematics syllabus in advance.
Books (Theory + Problem Solving):
|
Topic |
Recommended Books / Authors |
|
Linear Algebra, Calculus, ODE |
“Advanced Engineering Mathematics” by Erwin Kreyszig |
|
Real / Advanced Analysis |
“Principles of Mathematical Analysis” by Walter Rudin (for deeper understanding) |
|
Complex Variables |
“Complex Variables and Applications” by Churchill & Brown |
|
PDE / ODE |
“Partial Differential Equations” by T. Veerarajan; “Ordinary Differential Equations” by Coddington |
|
Probability & Statistics |
“Introduction to Probability & Statistics” by M. H. DeGroot & Mark J. Schervish |
|
Numerical Methods |
“Numerical Methods for Engineers” by S. C. Chapra / R. P. Canale |
Also, for GATE‐style problem books and past year compilation:
- “GATE Mathematics (MA)” – Past year question bank editions
- Coaching institute handbooks (some well curated)
- Online mock test series and practice platforms
Online / Video Resources
- NPTEL / SWAYAM – lecture series on mathematics topics
- Gate Academy / GATE “engineering mathematics” playlist
- YouTube channels: search “GATE Engineering Mathematics”
- PDF notes, formula sheets (use selectively; always verify correctness)
Downloadable PDFs & Tools
- Official gate mathematics syllabus pdf download from GATE 2026 site
- Past year papers in PDF form (GATE archive)
- Formula cheat sheets (self‑made or verified ones)
- Mock test platforms (paid/free)
- Error logs (Excel or notebook)
Summary & Quick Overview Table for GATE syllabus of Mathematics
Here’s a quick, glanceable summary you can refer to anytime:
|
What to Know |
Key Points |
|
What |
The GATE syllabus of mathematics comprises topics like Linear Algebra, Calculus, PDE/ODE, Complex Variables, Probability, Numerical Methods |
|
Where |
It appears either as full MA paper or as the engineering mathematics syllabus for GATE within branch exams |
|
How to Use PDF |
Get the GATE mathematics syllabus pdf download from official GATE website and mark and monitor your progress |
|
Best Strategy |
Conceptual clarity → PYQs → Mock tests → Revision cycle |
|
Top Resources |
Kreyszig, Churchill & Brown, Veerarajan, NPTEL, GATE practice platforms |
|
Tip |
Start early, maintain consistency, don’t ignore weak topics, analyze every mistake |
How to Prepare for the GATE Maths Syllabus?
Understand the Syllabus:
- Start by thoroughly understanding the GATE mathematics syllabus. This will give you a clear picture of the topics you need to cover. The syllabus is available on the GATE official website.
Select the Right Study Materials:
- Choose high-quality study materials, textbooks, and reference books. Some recommended books for GATE mathematics include “Higher Engineering Mathematics” by B.S. Grewal, “Advanced Engineering Mathematics” by Erwin Kreyszig, and the “GATE Mathematics” book by previous toppers.
Create a Study Schedule:
- Develop a realistic study schedule that covers all topics within the given time frame. Allocate sufficient time to each topic based on its weightage in the exam.
Focus on the Core Topics:
- Concentrate on the core topics that carry the most weight in the GATE mathematics paper. These typically include calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and discrete mathematics.
Practice Regularly:
- Mathematics requires practice. Solve a wide range of problems, particularly from previous years’ GATE papers. This will help you become familiar with the exam pattern and develop problem-solving skills.
Use Online Resources:
- Utilize online resources, including video lectures, online forums, and educational websites. Many platforms offer free and paid courses specifically designed for GATE mathematics.
Take Mock Tests:
- Regularly take GATE mock tests for mathematics. These tests will help you assess your preparation, improve your time management, and identify areas where you need more practice.
Review and Revise:
- Periodically review the topics you’ve covered and revise your notes. Revision is crucial to retaining information and ensuring you don’t forget what you’ve learned.
Seek Clarification:
- If you encounter difficulties with specific topics, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from professors, mentors, or online communities. GATE mathematics can be challenging, and it’s important to address any doubts promptly.
Stay Healthy and Manage Stress:
- A healthy lifestyle is essential. Get adequate sleep, eat well, and incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Managing stress is crucial for optimal performance.
Plan for the Exam Day:
- Familiarize yourself with the exam center, rules, and regulations. Plan your travel and ensure you reach the center well before the exam starts.
Stay Consistent:
- Consistency is key in GATE preparation. Stay committed to your study plan, and avoid last-minute cramming.
Stay Updated:
- Keep an eye on updates and notifications from the GATE organizing institute. Rules, patterns, and syllabus may change from year to year.
