Understanding the GATE subject-wise weightage for Computer Science Engineering (CSE) is essential for strategic exam preparation. This comprehensive analysis shows the marks distribution across different subjects in GATE CSE papers from 2019 to 2009, helping you identify high-weightage topics and optimize your study plan.
The GATE CSE paper covers various subjects including Data Structures, Algorithms, Operating Systems, Computer Networks, DBMS, Theory of Computation, Compiler Design, Computer Organization, Digital Logic, Discrete Mathematics & Graph Theory, and Engineering Mathematics along with General Aptitude. The weightage of each subject varies from year to year based on the paper set and exam pattern.
Important: The weightage shown below represents the total marks allocated to each subject in the respective year. This data helps you understand which subjects carry more weight and should be prioritized during your GATE CSE preparation.
GATE CSE Weightage 2019-2016
| Subject | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S1 | S2 | S1 | S2 | |||
| Compiler Design | 5 | 4 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 5 |
| Computer Networks | 9 | 5 | 9 | 5 | 10 | 8 |
| Computer Organization | 4 | 7 | 11 | 6 | 6 | 10 |
| Data Structures | 14 | 6 | 11 | 4 | 10 | 13 |
| DBMS | 9 | 3 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Design and Analysis of Algorithm | 6 | 4 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 8 |
| Digital Logic | 6 | 3 | 4 | 11 | 3 | 3 |
| DMGT (Discrete Mathematics & Graph Theory) | 11 | 7 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 5 |
| Engineering Mathematics | 7 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 14 | 13 |
| General Aptitude | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Operating System | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 6 |
| Theory of Computation | 6 | 3 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 10 |
GATE CSE Weightage 2015-2014
| Subject | 2015 | 2014 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S1 | S2 | S3 | S1 | S2 | S3 | |
| Compiler Design | 5 | 4 | 3 | 6 | 7 | 5 |
| Computer Networks | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Computer Organization and Architecture | 3 | 8 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 7 |
| Data Structures and Algorithms | 14 | 17 | 25 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| DBMS | 6 | 5 | 6 | 3 | 4 | 6 |
| Digital Logic | 5 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| Engineering & Discrete Mathematics | 25 | 21 | 17 | 30 | 23 | 24 |
| General Aptitude | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| Operating System | 10 | 5 | 6 | 10 | 11 | 9 |
| Software Engineering and Web Technologies | 4 | 5 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Theory of Computation | 5 | 7 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 6 |
GATE CSE Weightage 2013-2009
| Subject | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algorithms | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 14 |
| Compiler Design | 3 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 2 |
| Computer Networks | 7 | 9 | 6 | 8 | 10 |
| Computer Organization and Architecture | 11 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 5 |
| Databases | 7 | 11 | 5 | 7 | 10 |
| Digital Logic | 3 | 3 | 8 | 7 | 5 |
| General Aptitude | 15 | 15 | 15 | 15 | – |
| Information Systems and Software Engineering | 3 | – | 7 | – | 6 |
| Operating System | 12 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 16 |
| Programming And Data Structures | 10 | 12 | 7 | 13 | 7 |
| Theory of Computation | 8 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 9 |
Key Insights from GATE CSE Weightage
High Weightage Subjects
Data Structures and Algorithms consistently carry the highest weightage (10-25 marks) across most years. Engineering & Discrete Mathematics also maintains substantial weightage (17-30 marks), especially in earlier years. Operating Systems and Computer Networks are also important with 5-16 marks.
Moderate Weightage Subjects
DBMS, Theory of Computation, Computer Organization, and Compiler Design typically carry 3-11 marks. These subjects require balanced preparation as they appear regularly in the exam.
Preparation Strategy
Focus heavily on Data Structures and Algorithms as it's the highest weightage subject. General Aptitude (15 marks) is constant across all years and can significantly boost your score. Practice previous year papers to understand the pattern and difficulty level. Don't ignore moderate-weightage subjects as they can make a difference in your overall score.
Related Resources
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Subject-wise weightage for Civil Engineering
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Subject-wise weightage for Electronics & Communication Engineering
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Subject-wise weightage for Electrical Engineering
GATE Mechanical Weightage
Subject-wise weightage for Mechanical Engineering
Note: The weightage data shown above is based on analysis of previous year GATE CSE papers. Actual weightage may vary slightly in future exams. Use this data as a guide to prioritize your preparation, but ensure comprehensive coverage of all subjects in the GATE CSE syllabus.