How many questions should a candidate attempt to score well in GATE?

GATE has a variable marking scheme, where different questions carry different marks, and there is a negative marking for incorrect answers.

Here are some general strategies for attempting questions in GATE:

1. Focus on Strengths: Start with the sections or topics in which you are most confident. Answering questions in your strong areas can help you secure more marks with greater accuracy.

2. Time Management: Allocate time wisely across all sections. Prioritize questions based on their difficulty level and the time required to solve them. Don't spend too much time on a single question.

3. Negative Marking Consideration: Keep in mind that there is negative marking for incorrect answers. Avoid blind guessing, and attempt questions only when you have a reasonable level of confidence.

4. Complete Easy Questions First: Begin with easier questions to quickly accumulate marks. This builds confidence and provides a buffer for attempting more challenging questions later.

5. Strategic Skipping: If you encounter a particularly difficult question, consider skipping it and returning to it later if time permits. Don't let a single challenging question consume too much of your time.

6. Target a Minimum Score: Have a target minimum score in mind that you aim to achieve. Attempt enough questions to reach or exceed this target, considering the marking scheme and negative marking.

7. Review and Recheck: If time allows, review your answers and ensure that you haven't made any calculation errors or misinterpretations. It's essential to recheck your work for accuracy.

Remember that there is no fixed number of questions that guarantees a good score, as the difficulty level of the GATE exam can vary each year. Candidates are advised to practice previous year question papers, take mock tests, and fine-tune their strategies based on their performance.
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