GATE Civil Engineering Preparation: Formula Book vs Made Easy Handbook
The General Aptitude and Engineering Mathematics (GATE) examination is a crucial step for aspiring civil engineers, offering a pathway to higher education and employment. When preparing for the GATE in civil engineering, one of the key decisions you will face is whether to prepare a formula book or utilize the Made Easy Handbook. The Made Easy Handbook is a comprehensive resource that covers the entire syllabus with key points, formulas, and concepts. It is often hefty, weighing in at around 600 pages. A formula book, on the other hand, should contain only the essential formulas and key points, making it more concise and focused for rapid revision.
Choosing the Right Study Material for GATE Civil Engineering
When deciding whether to prepare a formula book or study with a Made Easy Handbook, consider the following factors:
The Made Easy Handbook
The Made Easy Handbook is a one-stop resource for GATE civil engineering preparation. It covers the entire syllabus comprehensively, including key points, formulas, and concepts. While it is extensive, this thoroughness can be both a blessing and a curse. The handbook provides a detailed understanding of the subject matter but may be overwhelming in its sheer bulk (600 pages).
Creating a Formula Book
A formula book is a more focused tool for quick revision. It should contain only the essential formulas and key points, making it easier to recall during the exam. The act of preparing the book itself serves as a valuable learning tool. Writing down the information once can be equivalent to reading it multiple times, enhancing memory retention. Moreover, creating a formula book is cost-effective and can be tailored to individual needs.
Benefits of Preparing a Formula Book
Preparing a formula book offers several advantages:
Improved Retention
Studies show that students who write information by hand retain it better than those who simply read or listen to it. Writing the formulas and important points yourself will help you remember them more easily. This method of active learning is scientifically proven to enhance recall and understanding.
Personalization
You can add your own notes, key points, and even color-code the information. This personal touch makes the material more memorable and relatable, as you can connect the concepts with your own understanding and language. Utilize colors strategically to highlight important points or group related formulas together, making the material more visually appealing and easier to review.
How to Prepare a Formula Book
While the Made Easy Handbook serves as a general reference, creating a formula book is a highly recommended practice. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create an effective formula book:
Step 1: Gather Essential Formulas and Key Points
Go through your textbooks, notes, and the Made Easy Handbook to collect all the necessary formulas and key points. Organize these into categories such as Statics, Mechanics of Materials, Fluid Mechanics, and Geomatics.
Step 2: Write and Review
Write down the formulas and key points in a notebook or on A4 sheets of paper. Review them regularly, ensuring that you understand each formula and its application. You can also include brief notes on how to solve common problems related to each formula.
Step 3: Color Coding and Organization
Use colors to classify different types of formulas or to highlight important points. For example, use green for kinematic formulas, blue for statics, and red for key derivation steps. This visual organization will make it easier to quickly locate information during last-minute revision.
Regular Revision and Use of General References
Once you've completed your formula book, it's crucial to revise it regularly. Dedicate at least 1.5 hours in the morning for revision. While the formula book serves as a quick review tool, the Made Easy Handbook can be used as a general reference. Its comprehensive coverage will help you build a strong foundation, making it easier to recall formulas and concepts during the exam.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to prepare a formula book or study with the Made Easy Handbook, incorporating both methods into your GATE civil engineering preparation can significantly enhance your chances of success. A formula book, with its focus on essential information and active learning, is a valuable tool for quick revision and improved retention. Meanwhile, the Made Easy Handbook serves as a comprehensive reference that can provide a deep understanding of the subject matter. By combining both approaches, you can create a robust study plan that will help you ace the GATE.
Keywords and Meta Descriptions
Keywords: GATE Civil Engineering, Formula Book, Made Easy Handbook
Meta Description: Discover the benefits of creating a formula book for GATE civil engineering preparation. Compare it with the Made Easy Handbook and learn how to maximize your study efficiency and retention. Get tips on how to prepare a formula book for quick review and improved test scores.