The GATE 2026 Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) exam is conducted by IIT Guwahati on February 8, 2026, in two shifts: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm (CS1) and 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm (CS2). Being one of the most demanding branches, GATE CSE attracts lakhs of candidates every year. Understanding subject-wise weightage helps aspirants prioritize chapters carrying maximum marks and ensures efficient preparation to secure top ranks or eligibility for IITs, NITs, and PSUs.
GATE 2026 CSE Subject-Wise Weightage
Tip: General Aptitude contributes 15 marks, which can significantly boost total score if attempted accurately.
GATE 2026 CSE Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
There is no partial marking in Multiple Select Questions (MSQs).
Important Chapters for GATE CSE 2026
Based on previous year trends, aspirants must focus on the following high-weightage topics:
- Engineering & Discrete Mathematics
- Algorithms & Data Structures
- Operating Systems
- Databases (DBMS)
- Computer Networks
- Theory of Computation & Compiler Design
- Digital Logic & Computer Architecture
- Software Engineering
- General Aptitude
Recommended Books & Study Materials
Study Material:
- Previous Years’ Question Papers from gate2026.iitg.ac.in
- Solved papers & practice sets from Arihant and GK Publications
Past Year CSE Paper Analysis
Observation: Repeated topics like Algorithms, OS, Networks, and TOC appear consistently, making them high-priority for preparation.
One-Month Revision Strategy for GATE CSE
- Week 1–2: Focus on high-weightage subjects – Algorithms, PDS, OS, DBMS.
- Week 3: Revise Digital Logic, TOC, Compiler Design, Computer Architecture.
- Week 4: Practice previous year papers, mock tests, and General Aptitude.
- Daily: Solve at least 30–40 questions from mixed topics to build speed and accuracy.