GATE 2026 Data Science & AI (DA) Guide: Weightage & Strategy

Complete exam day strategy for the GATE DA 2026 paper, covering Machine Learning weightage, MSQ tips, and IIT Guwahati's afternoon session rules.

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Categories: Engineering Entrance, Data Science, AI & Machine Learning, Career Guide
Tags: GATE DA 2026, GATE Data Science and AI, IIT Guwahati GATE, Machine Learning GATE Tips
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GATE 2026: Data Science & AI (DA) Strategy Guide
Cracking the Algorithms: Afternoon Session Protocol
1. Sectional Weightage & High-Yield Units

The GATE DA paper focuses less on traditional OS/Networking and more on the mathematical backbone of AI. Probability and Machine Learning alone often account for over 35% of the paper.

20-25%Probability & Statistics
15-20%Machine Learning
15%Linear Algebra
10-12%Programming & Data Structures
2. Master the MSQ (Multiple Select Questions)
Critical Alert: The DA paper is known for conceptual MSQs in Machine Learning (e.g., Bias-Variance Tradeoff or SVM kernels).

Rule of Thumb: There is no negative marking for MSQs. However, you must select all correct options to score. If you are 80% sure of three options, check the fourth carefully before leaving it.
3. Mandatory "Afternoon Session" Checklist

Since the DA paper (Session S6) is on Feb 15, 2026, from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM, your preparation should account for peak afternoon heat and post-lunch lethargy.

✓ Admit Card: Color printout with a clear photo.
✓ Original ID: Aadhaar/PAN/Passport (Must match registration).
✓ Virtual Calculator: Ensure you've practiced logarithmic and matrix operations on the gateda.iitg.ac.in mock link.
✓ Pen: One transparent blue/black ballpoint pen for rough work on the scribble pad.
4. IIT Guwahati Security & Dress Code

Security frisking for the DA session will be identical to other branches. Reach the center by 1:00 PM for the 2:30 PM start.

  • Apparel: Wear light-colored, half-sleeve clothing. Avoid large buttons or multi-pockets.
  • Footwear: Slippers or thin-soled sandals. Shoes are strictly prohibited.
  • Banned: Any kind of watch, wallet, or electronic gadget. A digital clock will be visible on your screen.
5. Strategic Time Management

Use the 180 minutes to maximize your accuracy in NAT (Numerical Answer Type) questions:

  1. General Aptitude (20 Mins): 15 Marks. Do not skip this; it's often easier than the AI core.
  2. Maths & Statistics (60 Mins): Tackle Probability, Calculus, and Linear Algebra while your mind is fresh.
  3. ML & AI (70 Mins): These often involve reading long MSQ statements. Read twice, solve once.
  4. The Final Sweep (30 Mins): Revisit NATs. Ensure you haven't made "unit conversion" errors in your final answers.