1NF, 2NF, 3NF and BCNF — GATE CS Topic Guide

Topic Overview

The topic 1NF, 2NF, 3NF and BCNF is an essential component of the Normalisation chapter in GATE CS Databases. Candidates must master the theoretical foundations, solve sample problems, and identify shortcuts to answer questions on this topic quickly under exam conditions.

Suggested Study Strategy

• Review standard formulas and theorems associated with 1NF, 2NF, 3NF and BCNF.
• Solve at least 15-20 practice questions of varying difficulty levels (easy, moderate, hard).
• Go through previous years' solved papers to examine how 1NF, 2NF, 3NF and BCNF questions were framed.
• Take short timed quizzes to evaluate your accuracy and problem-solving speed.