Updated By Falak Khan on 11 Aug, 2025 18:12
Predict your Percentile based on your GATE performance
Predict RankGATE 2026 engineering sciences syllabus has been released by IIT Guwahati in online mode at gate2026.iitg.ac.in. A new section paper of Energy Science (XE-I) has been introduced in the GATE 2026 Engineering Sciences syllabus. The engineering sciences syllabus will brief you with all the topics & sub-topics included in the syllabus. It is crucial for you to prepare this syllabus well on time in order to score well in the exam. Engineering Sciences (XE) is one of the 30 subject papers conducted in the GATE examination. GATE 2026 syllabus PDF for XE consists of three primary sections: General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics, and Engineering Sciences subjects. These sections comprise topics like analysis of structures, material behavior, structural analysis, measurements, material degradation, thermal properties, electronic properties, thermodynamics, forces of bodies, potential flaws, pipe flow, etc. If you are planning to take the GATE 2026 exam you should thoroughly review the syllabus, weightage, and other important details to prepare effectively. Check below the details of the GATE 2026 Engineering Sciences syllabus for all sections.
Also Check:
Get real time exam experience with full length mock test and get detailed analysis.
Attempt nowThe GATE 2026 Engineering Sciences syllabus includes 8 subjects. Engineering Mathematics is a common section worth 15 marks for all the students. Apart from that, you need to choose any two subjects from the remaining 7 options, with each subject carrying 35 marks. This accounts for a total of 70 marks. Additionally, there is a mandatory General Aptitude section worth 15 marks. Check below the detailed GATE Engineering Sciences syllabus 2026, starting from GATE XE-A to XE-G.
Section | Topics |
|---|---|
Section 1: Linear Algebra | - Algebra of real matrices: Determinant, inverse and rank of a matrix - System of linear equations (conditions for unique solution, no solution, and infinite solutions) - Eigenvalues and eigenvectors of matrices - Properties of eigenvalues and eigenvectors of symmetric matrices - Diagonalization of matrices - Cayley-Hamilton Theorem |
Section 2: Calculus | Functions of Single Variable: - Limit, indeterminate forms, and L'Hospital's rule - Continuity and differentiability - Mean value theorems - Maxima and minima - Taylor's theorem - Fundamental theorem and mean value theorem of integral calculus - Evaluation of definite and improper integrals - Applications of definite integrals to evaluate areas and volumes (rotation of a curve about an axis) Functions of Two Variables: - Limit, continuity, and partial derivatives - Directional derivative - Total derivative - Maxima, minima, and saddle points - Method of Lagrange multipliers - Double integrals and their applications Sequences and Series: - Convergence of sequences and series - Tests of convergence of series with non-negative terms (ratio, root, and integral tests) - Power series - Taylor's series - Fourier Series of functions of period 2π |
Section 3: Vector Calculus | - Gradient, divergence, and curl - Line integrals and Green's theorem |
Section 4: Complex Variables | - Complex numbers - Argand plane and polar representation of complex numbers - De Moivre’s theorem - Analytic functions - Cauchy-Riemann equations |
Section 5: Ordinary Differential Equations | - First-order equations (linear and nonlinear) - Second-order linear differential equations with constant coefficients - Cauchy-Euler equation - Second-order linear differential equations with variable coefficients - Wronskian - Method of variation of parameters - Eigenvalue problem for second-order equations with constant coefficients - Power series solutions for ordinary points |
Section 6: Partial Differential Equations | - Classification of second-order linear partial differential equations - Method of separation of variables: One-dimensional heat equation and two-dimensional Laplace equation |
Section 7: Probability and Statistics | - Axioms of probability - Conditional probability - Bayes' Theorem - Mean, variance, and standard deviation of random variables - Binomial, Poisson, and Normal distributions - Correlation and linear regression |
Section 8: Numerical Methods | - Solution of systems of linear equations using LU decomposition, Gauss elimination method - Lagrange and Newton's interpolations - Solution of polynomial and transcendental equations by Newton-Raphson method - Numerical integration by trapezoidal rule and Simpson's rule - Numerical solutions of first-order differential equations by explicit Euler's method |
Section | Topics | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|---|
Section 1: Flow and Fluid Properties | Fluid Properties | - Density, viscosity, surface tension - Relationship between stress and strain-rate for Newtonian fluids |
Classification of Flows | - Viscous vs inviscid flows - Incompressible vs compressible flows - Internal vs external flows - Steady vs unsteady flows - Laminar vs turbulent flows - 1-D, 2-D, 3-D flows - Newtonian vs non-Newtonian fluid flow | |
Hydrostatics | - Buoyancy - Manometry - Forces on submerged bodies - Stability | |
Section 2: Kinematics of Fluid Motion | Descriptions of Fluid Motion | - Eulerian and Lagrangian descriptions - Concept of local, convective, and material derivatives |
Fluid Lines | - Streamline - Streakline - Pathline - Timeline | |
Section 3: Integral Analysis for a Control Volume | Reynolds Transport Theorem (RTT) | - Conservation of mass - Conservation of linear and angular momentum |
Section 4: Differential Analysis | Equations of Motion | - Differential equations for incompressible flows - Inviscid flows (Euler equations) - Viscous flows (Navier-Stokes equations) |
Fluid Concepts | - Fluid rotation - Vorticity - Stream function - Circulation | |
Exact Solutions | - Navier-Stokes solutions for Couette flow - Poiseuille flow - Thin film flow | |
Section 5: Dimensional Analysis | Similarity Concepts | - Geometric, kinematic, and dynamic similarity |
Buckingham Pi Theorem | - Applications of Buckingham Pi theorem | |
Non-dimensional Parameters | - Reynolds number - Froude number - Mach number | |
Section 6: Internal Flows | Pipe Flow | - Fully developed pipe flow |
Empirical Relations | - Laminar and turbulent flows - Friction factor - Darcy-Weisbach relation - Moody’s chart - Major and minor losses | |
Section 7: Bernoulli’s Equation and its Applications, Potential Flows | Bernoulli’s Equation | - Assumptions - Applications |
Flow Measurements | - Venturi meter - Pitot-static tube - Orifice meter | |
Potential Flows | - Velocity potential function - Uniform flow - Source - Sink - Vortex - Superposition of flow past simple geometries | |
Section 8: External Flows | Prandtl Boundary Layer Equations | - Concept and assumptions |
Boundary Layer Characteristics | - Boundary layer thickness - Displacement thickness - Momentum thickness - Boundary layer separation | |
Forces on Bodies | - Streamlined and bluff bodies - Drag and lift forces |
Section | Topics | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|---|
1: Classification and Structure of Materials | Classification of Materials | - Metals - Ceramics - Polymers - Composites |
Nature of Bonding in Materials | - Metallic, ionic, covalent, and mixed bonding | |
Structure of Materials | - Fundamentals of crystallography - Symmetry operations - Crystal systems - Bravais lattices - Unit cells - Primitive cells - Crystallographic planes and directions - Structures of metals, ceramics, polymers, amorphous materials, and glasses | |
Defects in Crystalline Materials | - 0-D, 1-D, and 2-D defects - Vacancies - Interstitials - Solid solutions in metals and ceramics - Frenkel and Schottky defects - Dislocations - Grain boundaries - Twins - Stacking faults - Surfaces and interfaces | |
2: Thermodynamics, Kinetics and Phase Transformations | Thermodynamics | - Extensive and intensive thermodynamic properties - Laws of thermodynamics |
Phase Equilibria | - Phase rule - Phase diagrams (unary and binary) | |
Basic Electrochemistry | - Fundamental electrochemical principles | |
Reaction Kinetics | - Fundamentals of diffusion - Fick’s laws, solutions, and applications | |
Phase Transformations | - Solidification of pure metals and alloys - Nucleation and growth - Diffusional solid-state phase transformations (precipitation and eutectoid) - Martensitic transformation | |
3: Properties and Applications of Materials | Mechanical Properties | - Stress-strain response (elastic, anelastic, and plastic deformation) |
Electronic Properties | - Free electron theory - Fermi energy - Density of states - Elements of band theory - Semiconductors - Hall effect - Dielectric, piezoelectric, and ferroelectric behaviour | |
Magnetic Properties | - Origin of magnetism - Para-, dia-, ferro-, and ferri-magnetism | |
Thermal Properties | - Specific heat - Heat conduction - Thermal diffusivity - Thermal expansion - Thermoelectricity | |
Optical Properties | - Refractive index - Absorption and transmission of electromagnetic radiation | |
Applications | - Examples of materials exhibiting mechanical, electronic, magnetic, thermal, and optical properties, and their common applications | |
4: Characterization and Measurements of Properties | Characterization Techniques | - X-ray diffraction - Spectroscopic techniques: UV-Vis, IR, Raman - Optical and electron microscopy |
Measurements | - Composition analysis in electron microscopes - Tensile test - Hardness measurement - Electrical conductivity, carrier mobility and concentrations - Thermal analysis: thermogravimetry and calorimetry | |
5: Processing of Materials | Heat Treatment and Processing | - Heat treatment of ferrous and aluminium alloys - Preparation of ceramic powders - Sintering |
Thin Film Deposition | - Evaporation and sputtering techniques - Chemical vapour deposition - Thin film growth phenomena | |
6: Degradation of Materials | Material Degradation | - Corrosion and its prevention - Embrittlement of metals - Polymer degradation |
Section | Topics | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|---|
1: Mechanics of Rigid Bodies | Equivalent Force Systems | - Free-body diagrams - Equilibrium equations |
Analysis of Structures | - Determinate trusses - Frames - Friction - Principle of minimum potential energy | |
Dynamics of Rigid Bodies | - Particle kinematics and dynamics - Planar motion of rigid bodies - Law of conservation of energy - Law of conservation of momentum | |
2: Mechanics of Deformable Bodies | Stresses and Strains | - Transformation of stresses and strains - Principal stresses and strains - Mohr’s circle for plane stress and plane strain |
Material Behavior | - Generalized Hooke’s Law - Elastic constants - Thermal stresses - Theories of failure | |
Structural Analysis | - Axial force - Shear force - Bending moment diagrams - Axial, shear, and bending stresses - Combined stresses - Deflection (for symmetric bending) - Torsion in circular shafts - Thin walled pressure vessels - Energy methods (Castigliano’s theorems) - Euler buckling | |
3: Vibrations | Free Vibrations | - Undamped single degree of freedom systems |
Section | Topics | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|---|
1: Basic Concepts | Fundamental Concepts | - Continuum and macroscopic approach - Thermodynamic systems (closed and open) - Thermodynamic properties and equilibrium |
State and Processes | - State of a system - State postulate for simple compressible substances - State diagrams - Paths and processes on state diagrams | |
Heat and Work | - Concepts of heat and work - Different modes of work - Zeroth law of thermodynamics - Concept of temperature | |
2: First Law of Thermodynamics | Energy Concepts | - Concept of energy and various forms of energy - Internal energy - Enthalpy - Specific heats |
Application | - First law applied to elementary processes - Closed systems - Control volumes - Steady and unsteady flow analysis | |
3: Second Law of Thermodynamics | Basic Principles | - Limitations of the first law - Concepts of heat engines and heat pumps/refrigerators - Kelvin-Planck and Clausius statements and their equivalence |
Processes and Cycles | - Reversible and irreversible processes - Carnot cycle and Carnot principles/theorems - Thermodynamic temperature scale - Clausius inequality and entropy | |
Entropy | - Microscopic interpretation of entropy - Principle of increase of entropy - T-s diagrams - Second law analysis of control volume - Availability and irreversibility - Third law of thermodynamics | |
4: Properties of Pure Substances | Phase Behavior | - Thermodynamic properties in solid, liquid, and vapor phases - PvT behavior of simple compressible substances - Phase rule |
Equations of State | - Thermodynamic property tables and charts - Ideal and real gases - Ideal gas equation of state - Van der Waals equation of state - Law of corresponding states - Compressibility factor and generalized compressibility chart | |
5: Thermodynamic Relations | Thermodynamic Functions | - TdS relations - Helmholtz and Gibbs functions - Gibbs relations - Maxwell relations - Joule-Thomson coefficient - Coefficient of volume expansion |
Relations and Equations | - Adiabatic and isothermal compressibilities - Clapeyron and Clapeyron-Clausius equations | |
6: Thermodynamic Cycles | Cycles and Processes | - Carnot vapor cycle - Ideal Rankine cycle - Rankine reheat cycle - Air-standard Otto cycle - Air-standard Diesel cycle - Air standard Brayton cycle - Vapor-compression refrigeration cycle |
7: Ideal Gas Mixtures | Mixing Laws and Properties | - Dalton’s and Amagat’s laws - Properties of ideal gas mixtures - Air-water vapor mixtures - Simple thermodynamic processes involving them |
Humidity and Temperature | - Specific and relative humidities - Dew point and wet bulb temperature - Adiabatic saturation temperature - Psychrometric chart |
Section | Topics | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|---|
1: Chemistry of High Polymers | Basic Concepts | - Monomers - Functionality - Degree of polymerizations - Classification of polymers - Glass transition - Melting transition - Criteria for rubberiness |
Polymerization Methods | - Addition and condensation - Kinetics - Metallocene polymers - Newer methods of polymerization - Copolymerization - Monomer reactivity ratios and significance | |
Copolymerization Types | - Random, alternating, azeotropic - Block and graft copolymers - Techniques: bulk, solution, suspension, emulsion | |
Morphology | - Concept of intermolecular order - Amorphous, crystalline, orientation states - Factors affecting crystallinity - Crystalline transition - Effect on polymer properties | |
2: Polymer Characterization | Molecular Weight | - Solubility and swelling - Molecular weight distribution - Average molecular weight: number, weight, viscosity, Z-average - Polymer crystallinity |
Analytical Techniques | - IR, XRD - Thermal: DSC, DMTA, TGA - Microscopic: optical, electronic - GPC - Mooney viscosity | |
3: Synthesis, Manufacturing and Properties | Types of Polymers | - Commodity and general-purpose thermoplastics: PE, PP, PS, PVC, Polyesters, Acrylic, PU polymers - Engineering Plastics: Nylon, PC, PBT, PSU, PPO, ABS, Fluoropolymers - Thermosetting polymers: Polyurethane, PF, MF, UF, Epoxy, Unsaturated polyester, Alkyds - Natural and synthetic rubbers: NR, SBR, Nitrile, CR, CSM, EPDM, IIR, BR, Silicone, TPE - Speciality plastics: PEK, PEEK, PPS, PSU, PES - Biopolymers: PLA, PHA/PHB |
4: Polymer Blends and Composites | Blends and Composites | - Difference between blends and composites - Significance - Choice of polymers for blending - Miscibility: miscible and immiscible blends - Thermodynamics - Phase morphology - Polymer alloys, polymer eutectics - Plastic-plastic, rubber-plastic, and rubber-rubber blends - FRP, particulate, long and short fibre reinforced composites - Polymer reinforcement, reinforcing fibres (natural and synthetic) - Base polymer for reinforcement - Ingredients/recipes for reinforced polymer composite |
5: Polymer Technology | Compounding and Ingredients | - Need and significance of polymer compounding - Compounding ingredients: antioxidants, light stabilizers, UV stabilizers, lubricants, processing aids, impact modifiers, flame retardants, antistatic agents - PVC stabilizers and plasticizers - Function of each ingredient |
Processing Techniques | - Cross-linking and vulcanization - Vulcanization kinetics | |
6: Polymer Rheology | Flow Properties | - Flow of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids - Flow equations - Dependence of shear modulus on temperature - Molecular/segmental deformations |
Rheological Measurements | - Measurements: capillary, rotating, parallel plate, cone-plate rheometer - Visco-elasticity: creep and stress relaxation - Mechanical models - Control of rheological characteristics | |
7: Polymer Processing | Molding and Shaping | - Compression molding - Transfer molding - Injection molding - Blow molding - Reaction injection molding - Filament winding - SMC, BMC, DMC - Extrusion - Pultrusion - Calendaring - Rotational molding - Thermoforming - Powder coating - Rubber processing: two-roll mill, internal mixer, twin screw extruder |
8: Polymer Testing | Mechanical Properties | - Static and dynamic tensile - Flexural, compressive, abrasion - Endurance, fatigue, hardness - Tear, resilience, impact, toughness |
Conductivity and Thermal Properties | - Thermal and electrical conductivity - Dielectric constant, dissipation factor, power factor - Electric resistance - Surface resistivity, volume resistivity - Swelling, ageing resistance - Environmental stress cracking resistance - Limiting oxygen index | |
Thermal Properties | - Heat deflection temperature - Vicat softening temperature - Brittleness temperature - Glass transition temperature - Coefficient of thermal expansion - Shrinkage | |
Optical Properties | - Refractive index - Luminous transmittance and haze - Melt flow index | |
9: Polymer Recycling and Waste Management | Recycling Techniques | - Polymer waste and environmental impact - Sources - Identification and separation techniques - Recycling classification - Recycling thermoplastics, thermosets, and rubbers - Applications of recycled materials - Life cycle assessment of polymer products (e.g., PET bottles, packaging bags) |
Section | Topics | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|---|
1: Food Chemistry and Nutrition | Carbohydrates | - Structure and functional properties - Mono-, oligo-, & poly- saccharides - Starch, cellulose, pectic substances, dietary fiber - Gelatinization, retrogradation |
Proteins | - Classification and structure - Biochemical changes in post mortem - Tenderization of muscles | |
Lipids | - Classification and structure - Rancidity - Polymerization, polymorphism | |
Pigments | - Carotenoids - Chlorophylls - Anthocyanins - Tannins - Myoglobin | |
Food Flavours | - Terpenes - Esters - Aldehydes - Ketones - Quinines | |
Enzymes | - Specificity - Simple and inhibition kinetics - Coenzymes - Enzymatic and non-enzymatic browning | |
Nutrition | - Balanced diet - Essential amino acids, fatty acids - Protein efficiency ratio - Vitamins: water soluble, fat soluble - Role of minerals - Co-factors - Anti-nutrients - Nutraceuticals - Nutrient deficiency diseases | |
Chemical and Biochemical Changes | - Changes occurring in foods during processing | |
2: Food Microbiology | Characteristics of Microorganisms | - Morphology of bacteria, yeast, mold, actinomycetes - Spores and vegetative cells |
Microbial Growth | - Growth and death kinetics - Serial dilution technique - Gram-staining | |
Food Spoilage | - Spoilage microorganisms in milk, fish, meat, egg, cereals, and their products | |
Toxins from Microbes | - Pathogens and non-pathogens: Staphylococcus, Salmonella, Shigella, Escherichia, Bacillus, Clostridium, Aspergillus genera | |
Fermented Foods and Beverages | - Curd, yoghurt, cheese, pickles, soya-sauce, sauerkraut, idli, dosa, vinegar, alcoholic beverages, sausage | |
3: Food Products Technology | Processing Principles | - Thermal processing - Chilling, freezing - Dehydration - Preservatives and food additives - Irradiation - Fermentation - Hurdle technology - Intermediate moisture foods |
Food Packaging and Storage | - Packaging materials - Aseptic packaging - Controlled and modified atmosphere storage | |
Cereal Processing | - Milling of rice, wheat, maize - Parboiling of paddy - Bread, biscuits, extruded products, ready-to-eat breakfast cereals | |
Oil Processing | - Expelling - Solvent extraction - Refining - Hydrogenation | |
Fruits and Vegetables Processing | - Extraction, clarification - Concentration and packaging of fruit juice, jam, jelly, marmalade, squash - Candies, tomato sauce, ketchup, puree, potato chips, pickles | |
Plantation Crops Processing | - Tea, coffee, cocoa - Spice processing - Extraction of essential oils and oleoresins from spices | |
Milk and Milk Products Processing | - Pasteurization, sterilization - Cream, butter, ghee, ice cream, cheese, milk powder | |
Processing of Animal Products | - Drying, canning, freezing of fish and meat - Production of egg powder | |
Waste Utilization | - Pectin from fruit wastes - Uses of by-products from rice milling | |
Food Standards and Quality | - FPO, PFA, A-Mark, ISI - HACCP - Food plant sanitation - Cleaning in Place (CIP) | |
4: Food Engineering | Mass and Energy Balance | - Mass and energy balance principles |
Momentum Transfer | - Flow rate and pressure drop relationships for Newtonian fluids - Reynolds number | |
Heat Transfer | - Conduction - Convection - Radiation - Heat exchangers | |
Mass Transfer | - Molecular diffusion - Fick's law - Conduction and convective mass transfer - Permeability through single and multilayer films | |
Mechanical Operations | - Size reduction of solids - High pressure homogenization - Filtration - Centrifugation - Settling - Sieving - Mixing & agitation of liquid | |
Thermal Operations | - Thermal sterilization - Evaporation of liquid foods - Hot air drying of solids - Spray and freeze-drying - Freezing and crystallization | |
Mass Transfer Operations | - Psychometric - Humidification - Dehumidification |
Section | Topics | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|---|
A: Atmospheric Science | Vertical Structure and Composition | - Layers of the atmosphere - Composition of atmospheric gases |
Blackbody Radiation and Radiation Balance | - Blackbody radiation principles - Radiation balance in the atmosphere | |
Modes of Heat Transfer | - Conduction - Convection - Radiation | |
Greenhouse Effect | - Mechanism - Impact on climate | |
Cloud Types | - Classification - Formation processes | |
Laws of Thermodynamics | - First law - Second law - Third law | |
Gas Laws | - Boyle’s Law - Charles’s Law - Ideal Gas Law | |
Hydrostatic Equation | - Hydrostatic equilibrium - Application in atmospheric science | |
Clausius-Clapeyron Equation | - Derivation - Application to phase changes | |
Adiabatic Processes | - Adiabatic cooling and heating - Dry and moist adiabatic lapse rates | |
Humidity in the Atmosphere | - Measurement - Types: absolute, relative, specific humidity | |
Atmospheric Stability | - Stability criteria - Types of atmospheric stability | |
Weather and Climate | - Distinction between weather and climate - Factors influencing weather and climate | |
Navier-Stokes and Continuity Equations | - Fundamental equations - Applications in atmospheric dynamics | |
Compressible and Incompressible Fluids | - Characteristics - Differences and applications | |
Pressure Gradient, Centripetal, Centrifugal, and Coriolis Forces | - Pressure gradient force - Centripetal force - Centrifugal force - Coriolis effect | |
Geostrophic, Gradient, and Cyclostrophic Balances | - Geostrophic balance - Gradient balance - Cyclostrophic balance | |
Circulations and Vorticity | - Atmospheric circulation patterns - Vorticity and its significance | |
General Circulation of the Atmosphere | - Large-scale circulation patterns - Zonal and meridional circulations | |
Broad Features of Indian Monsoons | - Seasonal variations - Monsoon onset and withdrawal | |
Monsoon Depressions | - Formation - Impact on weather | |
Tropical Convergence Zones | - Definition - Role in global circulation | |
Tropical Cyclones | - Formation - Structure - Impacts and forecasting | |
B: Ocean Sciences | Vertical Profiles of Temperature and Salinity | - Measurement - Effects on ocean circulation |
Stability and Double Diffusion | - Stability in the ocean - Double diffusion processes | |
Equation of State | - Thermodynamic equation of state for seawater | |
Equations for Conservation of Mass, Momentum, Heat, and Salt | - Fundamental equations - Applications in oceanography | |
Inertial Currents | - Generation and characteristics - Impact on ocean circulation | |
Geostrophic Motion | - Mechanism - Relation to ocean currents | |
Air-Sea Surface Fluxes | - Heat fluxes - Momentum fluxes - Impact on climate | |
Wind-Driven Circulation | - Mechanism - Ekman and Sverdrup transports | |
Storm Surges, Tides, Tsunamis, and Wind Waves | - Characteristics - Formation - Impact on coastal areas | |
Eddies and Gyres | - Types of eddies - Major gyres in the ocean | |
Eastern and Western Boundary Currents | - Characteristics - Examples: Gulf Stream, Kuroshio Current | |
Equatorial Currents | - Characteristics - Importance for climate | |
Indian Ocean Current Systems | - Major currents - Seasonal variations | |
Thermohaline Circulation | - Mechanism - Role in global climate | |
Chemical Properties of Seawater | - Major and minor elements - Ocean acidification | |
Biochemical Cycling of Nutrients | - Nutrient cycles - Role in marine ecosystems | |
Trace Metals and Organic Matter | - Presence and significance - Impact on marine life | |
Biological Pump | - Mechanism - Impact on carbon sequestration | |
Primary and Secondary Biological Productivity | - Measurement - Factors affecting productivity | |
Air-Sea Exchange of Biogenic Dissolved Gases | - Types of gases - Exchange processes | |
Marine Ecology | - Marine ecosystems - Interactions between organisms |
Quick Links:
GATE Previous Year Question Papers with Solutions and Answer Keys PDFs |
The GATE General Aptitude syllabus 2026 is a vital section of the GATE exam, common to all papers. Good performance in General Aptitude can significantly add to the your overall GATE score, making it an important focus area for all aspirants. Here is a look at the GATE XE General Aptitude syllabus 2026.
Section | Topics |
|---|---|
Spatial Aptitude | - Transformation of Shapes: Translation, Rotation, Scaling, Mirroring - Paper Folding and Cutting: Patterns in 2 and 3 Dimensions - Assembling and Grouping |
Analytical Aptitude | - Logic: Deduction and Induction - Analogy - Numerical Relations and Reasoning |
Quantitative Aptitude | - Data Interpretation: Data Graphs (Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, 2D and 3D Plots, Maps, Tables) - Numerical Computation and Estimation: Ratios, Percentages, Powers, Exponents, Logarithms, Permutations, Combinations, Series - Mensuration and Geometry - Elementary Statistics and Probability |
Verbal Aptitude | - Basic English Grammar: Tenses, Articles, Adjectives, Prepositions, Conjunctions, Verb-Noun Agreement, and Other Parts of Speech - Basic Vocabulary: Words, Idioms, Phrases in Context - Reading and Comprehension - Narrative Sequencing |
Quick Links:
| GATE 2026 Exam Centres | GATE 2026 Eligibility Criteria |
| GATE 2026 Registration | GATE 2026 Admit Card |
If you are preparing for the GATE Engineering Sciences (XE) paper, then downloading the official syllabus PDF is the first step. Here is the GATE 2026 XE syllabus PDF link that provides a detailed outline of all the topics and subtopics they need to study for the exam.
| GATE XE Syllabus 2026 PDF Download Link |
|---|
Also Check:
While studying the GATE 2026 XE syllabus, focusing on the following topics can be particularly beneficial as they are frequently asked in the examination.
Subject | Important Topics |
|---|---|
XE-A: Engineering Mathematics | - Calculus: Differentiation, Integration, Differential Equations, Multiple Integrals - Linear Algebra: Matrix Theory, Vector Spaces, Systems of Linear Equations - Probability and Statistics: Probability Distributions, Statistical Inference, Regression and Correlation Analysis - Numerical Methods: Numerical Solutions, Root Finding Algorithms, Numerical Integration |
XE-B: Fluid Mechanics | - Fluid Properties: Viscosity, Density, Surface Tension - Hydrostatics: Buoyancy, Manometry - Fluid Flow Analysis: Reynolds Transport Theorem, Navier-Stokes and Euler Equations - Dimensional Analysis: Buckingham Pi Theorem, Non-Dimensional Numbers - Internal and External Flows: Pipe Flow, Bernoulli’s Equation Applications |
XE-C: Materials Science | - Material Classification and Structure: Metals, Ceramics, Polymers, Composites, Crystallography - Thermodynamics and Phase Transformations: Phase Diagrams, Diffusion, Solidification - Properties of Materials: Mechanical, Thermal, Magnetic, Optical Properties - Characterization Techniques: X-ray Diffraction, Spectroscopy, Mechanical Testing |
XE-D: Solid Mechanics | - Mechanics of Rigid Bodies: Equilibrium, Free-Body Diagrams, Analysis of Trusses and Frames - Mechanics of Deformable Bodies: Stress and Strain Analysis, Mohr’s Circle, Generalized Hooke’s Law - Vibrations: Free Vibration of Single Degree of Freedom Systems |
XE-E: Thermodynamics | - Basic Concepts: Thermodynamic Systems, Properties, Laws of Thermodynamics - First Law of Thermodynamics: Energy, Internal Energy, Enthalpy, Steady and Unsteady Flow Analysis - Second Law of Thermodynamics: Entropy, Carnot Cycle, Reversible and Irreversible Processes - Thermodynamic Cycles: Carnot, Rankine, Otto, Diesel, Brayton Cycles |
XE-F: Polymer Science and Engineering | - Chemistry of High Polymers: Polymerization Methods, Copolymerization, Morphology - Polymer Characterization: Molecular Weight Distribution, Techniques (IR, XRD, DSC) - Polymer Properties and Processing: Thermoplastics, Thermosets, Processing Techniques - Polymer Testing and Recycling: Mechanical and Thermal Properties, Recycling |
XE-G: Food Technology | - Food Chemistry and Nutrition: Carbohydrates, Proteins, Lipids, Vitamins, Minerals - Food Microbiology: Microbial Growth, Spoilage, Toxins, Fermented Foods - Food Products Technology: Processing Techniques, Packaging, Storage - Food Engineering: Mass and Energy Balances, Heat and Mass Transfer Operations |
XE-H: Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences | - Atmospheric Science: Vertical Structure, Composition, Thermodynamics, Cloud Types, Monsoons - Ocean Sciences: Temperature and Salinity Profiles, Ocean Circulation, Chemical Properties of Seawater |
Understanding the GATE 2026 XE syllabus weightage help you plan your studies in an effective manner, focusing on the topics that are likely to be asked in the exam. By going through the high-weightage topics, you can improve your chances of scoring well in the GATE exam 2026. Here is the table outlining the expetced topic weightage of all subjects (XE-A to XE-G) in the GATE Engineering Sciences syllabus 2026:
Paper Code | Section | Topic | Expected Weightage of Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
XE-A | Engineering Mathematics | Linear Algebra | 15% |
Calculus | 20% | ||
Vector Calculus | 10% | ||
Complex Variables | 10% | ||
Ordinary Differential Equations | 10% | ||
Partial Differential Equations | 10% | ||
Probability and Statistics | 15% | ||
Numerical Methods | 10% | ||
XE-B | Fluid Mechanics | Flow and Fluid Properties | 15% |
Kinematics of Fluid Motion | 10% | ||
Integral Analysis for a Control Volume | 15% | ||
Differential Analysis | 15% | ||
Dimensional Analysis | 10% | ||
Internal Flows | 10% | ||
Bernoulli’s Equation and its Applications, Potential Flows | 15% | ||
External Flows | 10% | ||
XE-C | Materials Science | Classification and Structure of Materials | 15% |
Thermodynamics, Kinetics and Phase Transformations | 20% | ||
Properties and Applications of Materials | 20% | ||
Characterization and Measurements of Properties | 15% | ||
Processing of Materials | 15% | ||
Degradation of Materials | 15% | ||
XE-D | Solid Mechanics | Mechanics of Rigid Bodies | 30% |
Mechanics of Deformable Bodies | 40% | ||
Vibrations | 30% | ||
XE-E | Thermodynamics | Basic Concepts | 15% |
First Law of Thermodynamics | 15% | ||
Second Law of Thermodynamics | 20% | ||
Properties of Pure Substances | 15% | ||
Thermodynamic Relations | 15% | ||
Thermodynamic Cycles | 10% | ||
Ideal Gas Mixtures | 10% | ||
XE-F | Polymer Science and Engineering | Chemistry of High Polymers | 20% |
Polymer Characterization | 15% | ||
Synthesis, Manufacturing and Properties | 20% | ||
Polymer Blends and Composites | 15% | ||
Polymer Technology | 10% | ||
Polymer Rheology | 10% | ||
Polymer Processing | 15% | ||
Polymer Testing | 15% | ||
Polymer Recycling and Waste Management | 10% | ||
XE-G | Food Technology | Food Chemistry and Nutrition | 25% |
Food Microbiology | 20% | ||
Food Products Technology | 25% | ||
Food Engineering | 30% | ||
XE-H | Atmospheric and Oceanic Science | Atmospheric Science | 55% |
Ocean Science | 45% |
Preparing the GATE 2026 XE syllabus involves a combination of strategic study, practice, and understanding the exam pattern. Here are some tips to help students prepare:
1. Go through the GATE XE syllabus 2026 thoroughly to understand the topics properly.
2. Arrange your study time based on the weightage of topics. Focus more on areas with higher weightage but also don't ignore less weighted topics.
3. Apart from reading textbooks, read reference books too. Solve GATE previous year question papers to understand the pattern and difficulty level.
5. Take regular mock tests to create exam conditions and improve time management.
6. Revise important formulas, reactions, and create summary for quick revision.
7. Keep track of any updates or changes related to the GATE XE exam, including changes in the syllabus or exam dates.
8. Maintain a healthy study routine with enough breaks and rest. Engage in activities like exercise, meditation, or hobbies to keep your mind fresh.
The selection of good books is very important to crack the GATE XE 2026 exam. Apart from the textbooks, the following reference books can help you explore the chapters with more information. Provided below is the list of best books recommended by experts for the GATE Engineering Sciences syllabus 2026.
Book Title | Author(s) | Publisher |
|---|---|---|
Higher Engineering Mathematics | B.V. Ramana | McGraw Hill |
Advanced Engineering Mathematics | R.K. Jain & S.R.K. Iyengar | Narosa Publishing |
Engineering Mathematics | K.A. Stroud | Palgrave Macmillan |
Fluid Mechanics | Frank M. White | McGraw Hill |
Materials Science and Engineering: An Introduction | William D. Callister Jr. | Wiley |
Mechanics of Materials | Ferdinand P. Beer & E. Russell | McGraw Hill |
Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach | Yunus Çengel & Michael Boles | McGraw Hill |
Predict your Percentile based on your GATE performance
Predict Your RankTypical response between 24-48 hours
Get personalized response
Free of Cost
Access to community