The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is not just a test of knowledge—it’s a test of precision, performance, and time management. With 65 questions to be solved in 180 minutes, you need more than just subject knowledge to succeed. That’s where mock tests come in.

In this blog, we’ll break down how to use mock tests to master time management during GATE preparation and improve both speed and accuracy.

Must Read- 10 Best Ways to Use Free Mock Tests for GATE Preparation

First things first, WHY TIME MANAGEMENT IS CRUCIAL IN GATE?

The GATE question paper consists of:

1. 10 General Aptitude Questions (GA)
2. 55 technical questions from your selected stream. 

Your biggest challenge is not to SOLVE them but to SOLVE THEM IN TIME (3 HOURS ONLY).

So, what will happen if you MISMANAGE TIME IN GATE?

1. You will end up spending too much time on one question.
2. You will have to leave questions unattempted.
3. Poor time distribution among sections. 

STEP-BY-STEP TIME MANAGEMENT STRATEGY IN GATE

1. Simulate the exam early

Start your practice with GATE mock test free to identify your weaknesses. This will help you in further improvement, and make sure to keep track of time while solving questions.

2. Create a section-wise attempt strategy

Different sections of the paper need to be handled differently. Solving plenty of GATE mock tests can help you understand what to expect from the actual question paper and how to solve various kinds of questions.

3. Take a test series

The test series is an excellent tool to prepare yourself for the exam day. The GATE 2026 test series will help you to familiarize yourself with the question paper pattern and can help you to avoid mistakes on the actual exam day.

Recommended Links:

For Best GATE Exam Books for the 2026 Exam – Click Here

For GATE Exam Syllabus for the 2026 Exam – Click Here

For GATE Exam Previous Year Question Papers for 2026 Exam – Click Here   

4. Analyse your every result

Whether you are taking a mock test or a test series, you should analyse every result, including the time spent on each question, which answer you marked wrong and why, along with personal insights like which type of questions you found difficult and whether you were able to solve them in time.

5. Track your progress

Your progress vs. time graph should go only upwards. You can use digital tools and calendars to plan your study session and keep track of your weekly and monthly goals. This process will only start after you minimize your distractions like social media and unnecessary screentime. 

Are You a Teacher? Apply for FREE GATE Specimen Sample Books For Teachers from our end. 

Conclusion

Time management is an essential skill when it comes to competitive exams like GATE 2025. To practice time management, you will have to build accuracy and learn how to be efficient. This will only come if you practice ample questions and learn how to save time even while solving complex questions. Almost every expert recommends joining a test series and solving as many mock tests as you can to revise the whole syllabus and mark your shortcomings to work on them.

All the best!