Analysis of ESE Prelims 2019 ECE: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring Engineers
Introduction
Electronics students in 2019 faced a substantially easier technical paper in the ESE (Engineering Services Examination) Prelims compared to previous years. This article aims to provide a detailed analysis of the paper, subject-wise, to help aspiring engineers prepare effectively for future exams.
GS Paper Analysis: A Moderate Challenge
The GS (General Studies) paper in the ESE Prelims 2019 was noted to be slightly more challenging than its predecessors. Questions were predominantly from areas that were not covered extensively in previous exams, with a strong emphasis on application-oriented topics such as AutoCAD. The mathematics and aptitude sections were relatively straightforward, allowing students to secure a minimum of 20–25/30 marks. The material science section, which included questions on polymers and ceramics, posed a significant challenge, especially for equilibrium no of vacancies questions.
Network Paper: A Mixed Bag of Easy and Tough Questions
The Network paper comprised 16 questions, with 8–9 repeated from previous years. While the overall level was moderate, questions on the steady state of RLC and two-port basics were somewhat basic. Time management could be challenging due to the numerical nature of many questions. Nonetheless, with proper preparation and a strategic approach, students were able to secure a good score.
EDC (Electrical and Electronics Devices and Circuits) Paper: An Easy Ride
The EDC paper, consisting of 3 questions, was described as very easy by the author. This section provided a welcome respite from the more challenging topics covered in other papers.
Material Science Paper: A Blend of Easy and Tough Questions
Material science also presented a mixed bag of questions. While some, like the equilibrium no of vacancies, were tough, others, such as cation-anion ratio and the triclinic structure, were straightforward. Preparation in this area is crucial, as the subject matter can be quite vast.
Basic Electrical Paper: Relatively Easier with Notes
The basic electrical paper, comprising 9 questions, was generally considered easier if students followed Kiran sir's notes closely. Although some questions, particularly on batteries, required additional preparation, the overall difficulty level was manageable for those who were well-prepared.
Control System Paper: A High-Scoring Subject
The control system paper was the most scoring and easiest among the technical papers. Questions were primarily based on fundamental concepts such as steady-state error, characteristic equations, and the angle of asymptotes. Mastering these basics is key to acing this section.
Digital Paper: A Fundamental and Scoring Section
The digital paper, which covered basic topics like Boolean algebra, DAC/ADC, and counters/registers, was also considered scoring. One question on FSM (Finite State Machines) was included for mealy and moore basic concepts. This section is comparatively easier and can significantly contribute to overall marks.
Measurement and Instrumentation Paper: Moderate Level Questions
The measurement and instrumentation paper required moderate-level numerical answers. Students who used the Made Easy theory book were well-prepared for these questions. Additionally, a scientific calculator was useful for temperature-related questions.
Analog Paper: Moderately Challenging Topics
The analog paper covered rectifiers, oscillators, and the 555 astable multivibrator. While the questions were moderately challenging, Iftikhar Khan sir's notes were sufficient for preparation. Attention to basics and fundamental formulas will be pivotal.
EMT (Electromagnetic Theory) Paper: Basics and Simple Formulas
The EMT paper included mostly straightforward questions with a few requiring simple formulas. There was one basic question related to antennas, specifically broadside array. For students with a solid understanding of these fundamental concepts, this section is quite manageable.
Advance Electronics and Advance Communication Paper: Varying Difficulty Levels
The VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) and microprocessor topics in the advance electronics paper were noted to be tough, while other questions were relatively straightforward. Similar to the analog paper, the DVC (Digital Video Coding) questions were moderately challenging. The advance communication paper, which included satellite questions, was noted to be more difficult due to the specialized nature of the content.
Overall Score Prediction and Final Advice
Based on the analysis, a score of 150–160 was considered easy to achieve, with 160 being a good benchmark. Students aiming for a higher score should focus on the sections that posed the biggest challenge, such as GS, material science, VLSI, and advance communication.
One piece of advice for all students is to start preparing for the ESE Mains right after the publication of the prelims results. This early preparation will give you a better understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus on areas that need improvement.
Best of luck to all aspiring engineers preparing for the ESE Exam!
Conclusion
The ESE Prelims 2019 ECE was a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities. By understanding the pattern and focusing on key areas, students can increase their chances of securing a good score and progressing to the ESE Mains. Emphasizing technical preparation, time management, and strategic study are critical steps on the path to success.