Is GATE Exam difficult than CAT Exam

Is GATE tougher than CAT, or is CAT more challenging than GATE? It's like comparing apples to oranges, or attempting to solve a Rubik's cube with your eyes closed. Both exams are notorious for their difficulty levels, and have left many students scratching their heads and reaching for the nearest stress ball. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's dive into this hotly debated topic - is the GATE Exam more difficult than the CAT Exam?"

Choosing the right postgraduate program can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available today. One of the most popular choices among students in India is pursuing an MBA, and the Common Admission Test (CAT) is one of the most widely recognized entrance exams for it. However, for engineering and science graduates, the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is also an attractive option. Both exams are known for their difficulty levels, leaving students wondering which one is more challenging. In this blog, we will compare the GATE Exam and CAT Exam and analyze which exam is more difficult."

Exam Structure and Format - Differences Between GATE and CAT Exam Structure and Format

• The structure and format of an exam can significantly impact the difficulty level of the exam. GATE and CAT exams have different structures and formats, which can affect how challenging they are for students.
• GATE Exam is an online computer-based exam consisting of a single paper of 3 hours duration. The exam consists of 65 questions carrying a total of 100 marks. The paper is divided into two sections- General Aptitude and the respective technical stream of the candidate. The General Aptitude section consists of 10 questions carrying a total of 15 marks, whereas the Technical section comprises 55 questions carrying a total of 85 marks. The exam is designed to evaluate a candidate's in-depth knowledge and understanding of their respective engineering or science stream.
• In contrast, the CAT Exam is also a computer-based exam consisting of two sections - Quantitative Aptitude (QA), Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC). The exam consists of 100 questions carrying a total of 300 marks. Each section has a time limit of one hour, and there is no fixed sequence in which the sections appear. The exam is designed to assess a candidate's aptitude for management and their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• The structure and format of the two exams are vastly different, and this can impact how difficult the exams are for students. The GATE Exam focuses solely on the technical knowledge of the candidate, making it more challenging for those who are not comfortable with the technical aspects of their respective engineering or science stream. On the other hand, the CAT Exam tests a candidate's critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which can be challenging for those who are not well-versed in management concepts.

Exam Syllabus - Comparison of The Syllabus Covered in GATE and CAT Exams

The syllabus covered in an exam plays a crucial role in determining its difficulty level. The syllabus covered in GATE and CAT exams is vastly different, making the exams challenging in their ways.

GATE Exam covers the technical syllabus of a candidate's respective engineering or science stream. The syllabus is extensive and covers topics such as engineering mathematics, engineering sciences, and the respective technical subjects of the candidate. The syllabus for the GATE Exam is based on undergraduate programs, and candidates are expected to have a deep understanding of the concepts taught in their respective courses.

In contrast, the CAT Exam covers topics such as quantitative aptitude, data interpretation, logical reasoning, verbal ability, and reading comprehension. The syllabus is designed to evaluate a candidate's aptitude for management and their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The syllabus is not based on any specific undergraduate program, and candidates from any academic background can take the exam.

The technical syllabus covered in the GATE Exam can be daunting for candidates who do not have a strong foundation in their respective engineering or science stream. On the other hand, the syllabus covered in the CAT Exam can be challenging for candidates who are not well-versed in management concepts.

Preparation strategies for GATE and CAT exams also differ due to the difference in their syllabus. For the GATE Exam, candidates are expected to have a deep understanding of the technical subjects and their applications, whereas for the CAT Exam, candidates need to focus on improving their problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities.

Difficulty Level Of Quantitative Aptitude - Analyzing The Quantitative Aptitude Section Of Both Exams And Its Relative Difficulty

• The quantitative aptitude section of both the GATE and CAT exams is an essential component and one of the most challenging sections to tackle for most candidates. It is designed to evaluate a candidate's numerical ability, mathematical skills, and logical reasoning. However, the relative difficulty of the quantitative aptitude section varies between the two exams.
• In GATE, the quantitative aptitude section comprises 15% of the total marks. It mainly focuses on testing a candidate's understanding of mathematical concepts and their application to solve complex problems. The questions in the GATE quantitative aptitude section range from simple arithmetic problems to high-level calculus and algebraic equations. Additionally, the section also includes questions on data interpretation, probability, and statistics. Overall, the quantitative aptitude section of GATE requires a solid foundation in mathematical concepts, logical reasoning, and quick problem-solving skills.
• On the other hand, in CAT, the quantitative aptitude section accounts for 34% of the total marks. The section primarily focuses on assessing a candidate's aptitude in mathematical concepts, data interpretation, and logical reasoning. The questions in the CAT quantitative aptitude section range from basic arithmetic to complex algebraic equations and geometry problems. The section also includes questions on data interpretation, probability, and statistics, similar to the GATE exam. However, the CAT quantitative aptitude section also evaluates a candidate's understanding of business concepts and their application in problem-solving.
• Overall, the quantitative aptitude section of CAT is considered more difficult than GATE. The questions in CAT are designed to evaluate a candidate's ability to analyze and interpret data, identify patterns, and make logical decisions. It requires a thorough understanding of mathematical concepts and their application in real-life business scenarios. Moreover, the time constraint in the CAT exam adds to the difficulty level, making it essential for candidates to solve questions quickly and accurately.
• To sum up, both GATE and CAT exams' quantitative aptitude sections require a strong foundation in mathematical concepts, logical reasoning, and quick problem-solving skills. However, the CAT quantitative aptitude section is considered more challenging than GATE due to its focus on business concepts, data interpretation, and time constraints. Candidates must prepare thoroughly and practice consistently to crack the quantitative aptitude section of both exams.

Conclusion

In conclusion, comparing the difficulty levels of GATE and CAT exams is not a straightforward task. Both exams are designed to evaluate candidates' skills and knowledge in different domains and require distinct preparation strategies. The GATE exam primarily focuses on assessing a candidate's technical expertise in engineering and science, whereas the CAT exam evaluates a candidate's business acumen and decision-making skills.

Despite their differences, both exams share some similarities, such as the quantitative aptitude section, which is considered one of the most challenging sections. Therefore, candidates must prepare thoroughly and practice consistently to crack both exams successful

Remember, success is not just about cracking the exam; it's also about the experiences and lessons learned along the way. Don't forget to take breaks, have fun, and enjoy the process.

As the saying goes, "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." So, take a break from your studies, indulge in your hobbies, and come back refreshed and ready to tackle the exam. With the right mindset and approach, you can achieve perfection in your work and crack the GATE or CAT exam with flying colors.

So, keep calm, study hard, and don't forget to have some fun along the way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I crack the GATE or CAT exam by studying for a few days?

Ans. Unfortunately, no. Both GATE and CAT exams require consistent and dedicated efforts to prepare for. Studying for a few days is not enough to crack these competitive exams.

Q2. Is it possible to score full marks in GATE or CAT exam?

Ans. Scoring full marks in any competitive exam is highly unlikely. GATE and CAT exams have a high level of difficulty, and even the most knowledgeable and skilled candidates may not score full marks.

Q3. Can I skip some topics in the GATE or CAT syllabus?

Ans. While some topics in the GATE or CAT syllabus may carry more weightage than others, skipping topics entirely is not recommended. Candidates should try to cover all topics in the syllabus to have a comprehensive understanding of the exam and increase their chances of success.

Q4. Is it necessary to attend coaching classes for GATE or CAT exam preparation?

Ans. No, it is not necessary to attend coaching classes for GATE or CAT exam preparation. However, coaching classes can provide additional guidance and support to candidates and can be beneficial for those who need structured learning and regular practice.

Q5. Can I use a calculator during the GATE or CAT exam?

Ans. Yes, candidates can use calculators during GATE and CAT exams. However, the type of calculator allowed may be restricted, and candidates should check the exam guidelines for the same.

Q6. Is it necessary to have work experience for the CAT exam?

Ans. No, work experience is not mandatory for the CAT exam. However, having work experience may be beneficial for candidates during the selection process for top B-Schools.