Cracking the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) requires much more than completing the syllabus. Success comes from consistent preparation, learning from mistakes, and maintaining confidence throughout the journey. While many aspirants begin their preparation with enthusiasm, only a few stay disciplined until the examination.
One such inspiring story is that of Rachit Katewa, who secured All India Rank (AIR) 51 in GATE 2026 Mechanical Engineering (ME). A Mechanical Engineering graduate from IIT Mandi, Rachit rebuilt his preparation after facing setbacks and eventually achieved an outstanding rank through disciplined study and smart planning.
Rachit Katewa belongs to Jaipur, Rajasthan, and completed his Mechanical Engineering from IIT Mandi in 2022. After graduation, he began preparing for GATE and PSU examinations with the goal of securing a top rank.
To strengthen his preparation, he joined Physics Wallah's Parakram Batch, specially designed for GATE and PSU aspirants.
Speaking about his preparation, Rachit shared,
"I opted for the Parakram Batch. The lectures by Swadesh Singh Sir, Ramanand Sir, and Vinod Sir helped me a lot in clearing my basics."
According to him, understanding the fundamentals thoroughly proved to be one of the biggest reasons behind his success.
Every GATE topper has faced difficult moments, and Rachit's journey was no different.
Although he had appeared for GATE earlier, he admitted that his preparation lacked consistency during that phase. Rather than allowing previous disappointments to affect his confidence, he decided to restart his preparation with a fresh mindset.
Reflecting on that period, he said,
"There were many setbacks in my journey. But I realised I couldn't change what had already happened. I could only make the future better."
Instead of worrying about previous results, he focused entirely on improving his daily preparation.
Many students believe they must study eight to ten hours from the first day itself. Rachit believes this approach is unrealistic.
He explained,
"Initially, I could study only two or three hours. As my confidence increased, my study hours increased naturally."
Rather than forcing himself into long study sessions, he gradually built a disciplined routine. As his understanding improved, he found himself studying longer without feeling pressured.
His experience shows that consistency matters far more than studying for long hours without focus.
One of the most practical lessons from Rachit's journey is the importance of avoiding multiple study resources.
He advised,
"Don't run after multiple sources. Follow one source properly and stay focused."
Instead of referring to several books and coaching materials, he trusted his class notes and revised them repeatedly. Whenever he found a formula or concept difficult to remember, he simply marked it in the notes for future revision.
This approach helped him avoid unnecessary confusion during the final months.
Competition is inevitable during GATE preparation, but constantly comparing yourself with others can reduce confidence.
Rachit believes students should concentrate on their own progress rather than worrying about what others are doing.
He shared,
"Don't pay attention to what others are doing. Focus on yourself."
By setting daily targets and improving little by little, he stayed motivated throughout the preparation journey.
Physics Wallah's Parakram Batch helped Rachit strengthen his concepts, revise efficiently, and stay focused throughout his GATE preparation. The faculty guidance, structured notes, and flexible learning approach supported his journey to AIR 51.
Strong Conceptual Foundation: Detailed lectures helped him strengthen the basics of Mechanical Engineering.
Expert Faculty Guidance: He credited Swadesh Singh Sir, Ramanand Sir, and Vinod Sir for simplifying difficult concepts.
Recorded Lecture Access: Recorded classes allowed him to complete the syllabus even when he missed live sessions.
Comprehensive Study Notes: The course notes became his primary revision material.
Focused Revision Strategy: Instead of creating separate short notes, he highlighted important formulas directly in the provided notes.
Single Trusted Learning Source: Following one structured course reduced confusion and improved revision efficiency.
GATE and PSU Preparation: The batch covered concepts relevant to both competitive examinations.
Continuous Academic Support: Faculty guidance helped him stay motivated and focused throughout the preparation journey.
Key Lessons from Rachit's GATE Journey
Every GATE aspirant can learn valuable lessons from Rachit's preparation:
Build strong fundamentals before solving advanced problems.
Stay consistent instead of chasing long study hours.
Attempt mock tests regularly.
Analyse every test carefully.
Revise from one trusted source.
Avoid comparing yourself with other aspirants.
Learn from setbacks instead of fearing them.
Stay patient throughout the preparation journey.
These simple yet effective habits helped him achieve one of the top ranks in GATE 2026.
The GATE 2026 ME AIR 51 Rachit Katewa Success Story highlights how determination, consistency, and smart preparation can transform an aspirant's journey. Instead of letting setbacks define him, Rachit focused on strengthening his fundamentals, analysing every mock test, and staying disciplined throughout his preparation.
With the support of Physics Wallah's Parakram Batch, regular revision, and a clear preparation strategy, he achieved an outstanding result. His journey serves as a valuable source of motivation for students preparing for GATE 2027 and beyond.