Interview: Meet Kailash, Who Topped GATE 2025 While Working Full-Time – News18

Last Updated:March 21, 2025, 19:02 IST

GATE 2025 Results: Kailash Goyal, who topped GATE 2025 while working full-time, shares his preparation strategy, the challenges he faced, and valuable tips for aspirants.

The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee released the GATE 2025 results on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. GATE is a national-level exam for admission to postgraduate engineering programs and PSU recruitment in India. Cracking the GATE exam is a dream for many engineering aspirants, and achieving an All India Rank (AIR) 1 is an extraordinary feat.

This year, Kailash Goyal has emerged as the GATE 2025 topper in Instrumentation Engineering, securing AIR 1, along with an AIR 2 in Electrical Engineering. In an exclusive interview with News18.com, he shares his preparation strategy, the challenges he faced, and valuable tips for future aspirants aiming to excel in one of India’s toughest competitive exams.

Here are the edited excerpts from the interview:

Q: Congratulations on securing AIR 1 in Instrumentation Engineering! Can you share your initial reaction upon seeing your result?

A: Thank you so much! The moment I saw my result and realised I had secured AIR 1 in Instrumentation Engineering, I was speechless. For about 10-15 seconds, I just sat there, letting the moment sink in. It was truly surreal. Then, I decided to check my result in Electrical Engineering, and to my surprise, I had secured AIR 2 there as well! The excitement was overwhelming, and everyone around me was cheering and celebrating.

Q: What was your preparation strategy, and how did you manage your time effectively?

A: My preparation strategy was built around a clear goal—achieving a top rank in GATE. To ensure a balance between work and study, I joined as a subject expert at PW which complemented my preparation. My work involved deep engagement with GATE subjects, which helped me strengthen my understanding. Answering student queries also played a crucial role in identifying and addressing my weak areas. This continuous subject exposure and problem-solving approach were key to my success.

Q: Did you follow any specific books or online resources that helped you excel?

A: After completing my B.Tech, I enrolled in a classroom program for structured learning. Additionally, I solved a large number of previous years’ question papers (PYQs) and test series. Whenever I had doubts about a topic, I referred to multiple resources, including standard textbooks and online lectures. Seeking guidance from experienced mentors also helped me refine my concepts.

Q: What were the biggest challenges you faced during your preparation, and how did you overcome them?

A: Coming from a private college, I initially had weak conceptual knowledge, which led to a lot of doubts in the early stages of my preparation. Another major challenge was dealing with self-doubt. I had attempted GATE multiple times but couldn’t achieve a good rank. It was frustrating to figure out where I was going wrong. However, I remained persistent, worked on my weaknesses, and refined my approach with each attempt.

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Q: Many aspirants struggle with revision and time management. What tips would you give them?

A: Here are a few key revision strategies that worked for me:

• Revise your class notes immediately after the lecture.
• Solve PYQs and practice problems related to the topics covered in class.
• Once a subject is completed, create short notes for quick revision.
• Minimise distractions and stay disciplined in your daily learning.
• In the last 2-3 months, focus on attempting as many mock tests as possible.
• Instead of revising the entire syllabus repeatedly, focus on weak areas and problem-solving.

Q: What role did mock tests and previous years’ papers play in your preparation?

A: Mock tests were crucial in identifying weak areas and improving time management. In GATE, speed and accuracy are key, and regular mock tests helped me enhance both. PYQs are equally important, as they give an idea of the types of questions asked in past exams. Many times, similar concepts are repeated. I strongly recommend solving at least 10-15 years’ worth of PYQs for thorough preparation.

Q: What are your future plans—will you pursue higher studies, research, or a PSU job?

A: I do not have plans for higher studies, research, or a PSU job at the moment. Instead, I am considering state government jobs near my hometown. Alternatively, I may continue working in the education sector, guiding future GATE aspirants.