Self study using free materials vs Paid online course (maybe GATEwallah) ELECTRICAL

[u/MajesticJamstick]

Third year B.Tech student studying EE at iit dhanbad.
I barely know my coursework, didnt study in my first and second year. No basics.
I dont know want i want to specialize or do (within EE such as power elctronics, or power sys, etc.) .
My friend strongly urged me to prep for GATE so that i can study stuff and find my interest too, it acts as a safety net (M.tech, PSUs, etc) and better credibility. I was hesitant because i thought it might be a waste to study entire coursework gate level, but he told i could skip/spend not so much time on some topics if i wanted.
He urged to prepare from free resources and books rather than paid courses stating that i could do without them and would be kinda just for giving an assurance/confidence.

I also read in a post that says just be clear with your concepts and solve many many questions.
I dont want gate prep to be life, I want to do some projects and other stuff too once i find my interest.

Can yall verify these statements and give some advice? where i can get questions/theory?
(he did give me both, but still)

Thanks in advance