JEE Main 2026: 21 January Shift 1 Paper Analysis & Topic Weightage
Table of content
Key Takeaway
The JEE Main 2026 – 21 January Shift 1 paper was moderate in difficulty, with Mathematics being the most time-consuming, Physics focusing on conceptual clarity, and Chemistry favoring NCERT-based preparation. Students with consistent practice and strong fundamentals found it manageable.
Overview of the Paper
The JEE Main 2026 – 21 January Shift 1 exam, conducted by NTA, followed the standard pattern of 90 questions (75 to attempt) across Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Overall, the paper maintained a balanced difficulty level, testing both conceptual understanding and time management skills.
Overall Difficulty Level
| Subject | Difficulty Level | Nature of Questions |
| Mathematics | Moderate & Calculation-Heavy | Geometry and Algebra dominated |
| Physics | Moderate | Conceptual and formula-based |
| Chemistry | Moderate to Lengthy | Balanced across all three branches |
| Overall | Moderate | Concept-based, time-intensive |
Student Feedback:
Most students found the paper balanced but slightly time-consuming, especially due to lengthy Maths calculations.
Subject-Wise Analysis and Topic Weightage
Mathematics
| Topic | No. of Questions | Remarks |
| Calculus | 1–2 | Based on standard NCERT concepts |
| Vector & 3D Geometry | 2–3 | Multi-step and time-consuming |
| Quadratic Equations | 1 | Direct question |
| Sets & Relations | 2 | Conceptual |
| Matrices | 1 | Calculation-heavy |
| Sequence & Series | 1 | Moderate |
| Coordinate Geometry | 2 | High-scoring area |
OGcollege Insight:
Mathematics focused heavily on geometry and algebra, rewarding students with strong conceptual clarity and effective time management.
Physics
| Topic | No. of Questions | Level |
| Optics | 1–2 | Moderate |
| Semiconductors | 1 | Easy |
| Units & Dimensions | 2 | Straightforward |
| Current Electricity | 1 | Conceptual |
| Rotational Motion | 1 | Calculation-based |
| Heat and Calorimetry | 1 | Formula-driven |
OGcollege Insight:
The Physics section was NCERT-oriented, with questions testing direct formula application and conceptual accuracy.
Chemistry
| Branch | Focus | Notes |
| Physical Chemistry | Moderate | Numeric and conceptual mix |
| Organic Chemistry | High | Reaction-based questions |
| Inorganic Chemistry | Balanced | NCERT-heavy |
| Mixed Concepts | 1–2 | Conceptual and factual |
OGcollege Insight:
Organic Chemistry had the highest weightage, with questions emphasizing mechanisms and direct reaction applications.
Key Takeaways
- The paper maintained a moderate difficulty level across all subjects.
- Mathematics required precise time management due to lengthy questions.
- NCERT-based preparation dominated Physics and Chemistry.
- Students with clear concepts and consistent practice found the paper manageable.
Preparation Strategy for Upcoming Shifts
Mathematics
- Focus on coordinate geometry, algebra, and calculus.
- Practice timed problem-solving sessions daily.
- Revise previous year questions to identify patterns.
Physics
- Revise modern physics, optics, and current electricity.
- Focus on direct formula-based questions.
- Strengthen fundamentals with short, topic-wise mock tests.
Chemistry
- Study NCERT thoroughly, especially Organic and Inorganic chapters.
- Revise reaction mechanisms and practice conceptual numerical problems.
- Balance attention across all three branches.
Contextual Tip
Before starting your April revision sprint, try the OGcollege Rank Calculator to check your expected percentile and identify your weak areas. If you’re unsure about your college options, explore the College Predictor Tool for personalized insights and guidance.
Conclusion
The JEE Main 2026 – 21 January Shift 1 paper was moderate, concept-based, and balanced. Mathematics was slightly lengthy, while Physics and Chemistry were grounded in NCERT-level theory.
For upcoming shifts, focus on:
- Strengthening core concepts
- Maintaining speed and accuracy
- Practicing mock tests under timed conditions
Sources:
NTA — Official JEE Main 2026 Notification
JoSAA — Official Counselling Portal
PW (Physics Wallah) — JEE Main 2026 – 21 January Shift 1 Paper Analysis
Vedantu — JEE Main 2026 Paper Review
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