GATE 2026 CSE Shift 1 and Shift 2 exam analysis outlines the difficulty level, question trends, and key observations from the examination held on 8 February. The Computer Science paper tested conceptual understanding along with calculation-based problem-solving skills.
GATE 2026 CSE Exam Overview and Timings
The GATE 2026 Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) paper was conducted in two shifts on February 8, 2026. Shift 1 was held from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, while Shift 2 took place from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm.
Candidates reported that both shifts followed the standard GATE exam pattern, including MCQs, MSQs, and NAT questions. The overall difficulty level remained comparable to the previous year’s examination.
GATE 2026 CSE Shift 1 Paper Analysis
Based on student reactions, GATE 2026 CSE Shift 1 was rated moderately difficult. The paper included several concept-based and lengthy questions, especially in core Computer Science subjects.
Engineering Mathematics and General Aptitude sections were considered moderate. The Computer Science section included more MSQ and NAT-type questions, requiring higher accuracy. Topics such as Algorithms, Computer Organisation and Architecture, and TCP-based networking concepts were reported as challenging, while Computer Networks had comparatively fewer questions.
GATE 2026 CSE Shift 2 Paper Analysis
The GATE 2026 CSE Shift 2 paper was described as moderate to difficult, though slightly easier than Shift 1 by some candidates. Students noted the presence of tricky and calculation-intensive questions.
The General Aptitude section in Shift 2 was considered easy to moderate, with a few direct questions. Statement-based questions and MSQs were of moderate difficulty, and time management played an important role due to the paper’s length.
GATE 2026 CSE Memory-Based Questions and Trends
Initial feedback highlighted memory-based questions from Boolean algebra, algorithms, graph theory, and grammar concepts related to LL(1) parsers. These questions focused on conceptual clarity rather than direct formula application.
Experts observed that candidates with strong fundamentals and careful handling of MSQs and NATs were better positioned to score well.
GATE 2026 Answer Key and Result Date
The GATE 2026 provisional answer key is expected to be released by the last week of February 2026 by IIT Guwahati. Candidates will be allowed to raise objections within the specified window.
The GATE 2026 result will be declared on March 19, 2026 through the GOAPS portal. The GATE 2026 scorecard will be available for download from March 27, 2026 onwards. Based on early analysis, the expected qualifying cut-off for the general category may range between 32 and 36 marks, subject to official confirmation.