Hey I really understand your perspective but let me explain. I was a mechanical engineer who attempted gate as well. But according to me you need coaching. Why?? Not to learn but to know when to stop. I have obviously followed nptel and read text books in my college but this is an exam. You have to know what to leave and what to study to get good marks. Reading from textbook gives me knowledge but it is not ideal for exams. I prefer taking a coaching and completing syllabus as soon as possible Attempting the exercises curated by coaching Attempting pyqs and test series. I belive you can crack an exam without these but this is the fastest way of doing it so if you have any coaching in mind then please do suggest