The GATE Pattern
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is an examination conducted annually for admission to postgraduate programs in engineering and technology. The GATE pattern is designed to assess the comprehensive understanding of various undergraduate subjects in engineering and science.

Consistency in the GATE Pattern
The GATE pattern generally remains consistent each year, with only minor changes or updates. This consistency allows candidates to prepare effectively and know what to expect in the examination. However, it is important to note that slight variations may occur, and candidates should stay updated with the official GATE website for any changes in the pattern.

Sections and Marks Distribution
The GATE examination consists of a single paper with multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and numerical answer type questions (NATs). The paper is divided into multiple sections, each focusing on a specific subject or topic. The number of sections may vary based on the discipline chosen by the candidate. The marks distribution for each section may also vary, depending on the weightage assigned to different topics.

Types of Questions
GATE includes two types of questions: MCQs and NATs. MCQs have four options, and candidates need to select the correct one. Each correct answer carries 1 or 2 marks, while incorrect answers may result in negative marking. NATs, on the other hand, require candidates to enter a numerical value as the answer. These questions do not have negative marking.

Duration and Marking Scheme
The GATE examination is usually conducted for a duration of 3 hours. The total marks for the paper vary depending on the discipline and the number of sections. The marking scheme may also differ for MCQs and NATs, with negative marking applicable only for MCQs.

Changes in the GATE Pattern
While the overall pattern of GATE remains fairly consistent, there have been some changes over the years. These changes are usually introduced to align the examination with the evolving needs of the industry and academia. Some common changes include:

1. Introduction of new subjects or topics to reflect emerging fields.
2. Addition or removal of sections based on the relevance of certain subjects.
3. Modification in the distribution of marks across sections to emphasize specific topics.
4. Inclusion of virtual calculator for numerical calculations.
5. Introduction of a few new question formats to assess analytical and reasoning abilities.

The changes in the GATE pattern are implemented to ensure that the examination remains relevant and up-to-date with the latest advancements in engineering and technology.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the GATE pattern generally remains consistent with minor variations each year. Candidates should thoroughly understand the sections, types of questions, duration, and marking scheme to prepare effectively. While changes may occur, staying updated with official notifications is crucial. GATE is a reputable examination that evaluates the knowledge and understanding of various engineering subjects and serves as a gateway to higher education opportunities.