JEE Main 2026: 22 January Shift 2 Full Analysis
Table of content
Key Takeaway
The JEE Main 2026 – 22 January Shift 2 paper was moderate overall, with Chemistry being the easiest, Physics conceptual, and Mathematics lengthy and time-consuming. Students with strong NCERT foundations and balanced time management found the paper manageable.
Exam Overview
The JEE Main 2026 (22 January Shift 2) paper was held from 3 PM to 6 PM in a computer-based format with 75 questions (out of 90).Students and experts rated the overall difficulty as moderate, consistent with other January shifts. While Chemistry favored NCERT followers, Physics tested conceptual understanding, and Mathematics demanded accuracy under time pressure.
Subject-Wise Topic Analysis
Physics Analysis
| Chapter | Approx. Questions | Remarks |
| Ray Optics | 1 | Concept-based, formula-driven |
| Modern Physics | 2 | Easy numerical questions |
| Fluid Mechanics | 1 | Application-based |
| Others | – | Mix of direct NCERT concepts |
OGcollege Insight:
Physics was easy to moderate, focusing on conceptual clarity over lengthy calculations. Most questions were direct and could be completed in about 50 minutes, making it a scoring section for prepared students.
Chemistry Analysis
| Chapter | Approx. Questions | Remarks |
| Coordination Compounds | 1 | Statement-based |
| Electrochemistry | 1–2 | Numerical |
| Thermodynamics | 1 | Entropy-based |
| Ionic Equilibrium | 1 | Buffer-related |
| Biomolecules | 1 | NCERT-based |
| Mole Concept | 1 | Calculation-based |
| Physical Chemistry (Overall) | Few | Integer-type questions |
OGcollege Insight:
Chemistry continued to be the most scoring subject of this shift. Questions were direct, NCERT-oriented, and required basic conceptual understanding rather than complex derivations. Students who revised NCERT thoroughly could score full marks in this section.
Mathematics Analysis
| Chapter / Topic | Questions | Remarks |
| Integration | 1 | Lengthy, calculation-heavy |
| Differentiation | 1 | Standard calculus question |
| Vectors & 3D Geometry | 3 | Dominant and accuracy-based |
| Quadratic Equations | 1 | Direct and scoring |
| Functions | 1 | Conceptual |
| Sets | 1 | From NCERT |
| Binomial Theorem | 1 | Formula-based |
OGcollege Insight:
Mathematics was the lengthiest subject, demanding both speed and accuracy. Most students found Vectors and 3D Geometry time-consuming, though scoring if attempted systematically.
Key Observations
- Balanced Paper Pattern: NTA maintained consistency across subjects and sessions.
- Time Management Crucial: Students who allocated time strategically across sections performed better.
- Concept Clarity Emphasized: Questions in Physics and Chemistry heavily favored understanding over rote learning.
- Maths Remained Challenging: Calculation-heavy and multi-step questions dominated, especially from Algebra and Calculus.
Preparation Strategy for Upcoming Attempts
1. Prioritize NCERT-Based Revision
- Focus on Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, which continue to dominate scoring questions.
- Pay attention to Electrochemistry, Coordination Compounds, and Thermodynamics.
2. Strengthen Conceptual Understanding in Physics
- Revise Modern Physics, Ray Optics, and Mechanics.
- Practice formula-based and conceptual problems to improve speed.
3. Manage Time Effectively in Mathematics
- Practice Vectors, 3D Geometry, and Integration daily under timed conditions.
- Analyze previous memory-based papers to spot repeating question types
Contextual Tip
Before planning your next preparation phase, use the OGcollege Rank Calculator to estimate your percentile and see where you stand. You can also use the College Predictor Tool to explore colleges that match your performance and rank trends.
Conclusion
The JEE Main 2026 – 22 January Shift 2 paper maintained a moderate difficulty level with well-balanced questions across all subjects. Chemistry stood out as the most scoring, Physics tested core concepts, and Mathematics remained lengthy yet predictable.
For aspirants preparing for upcoming shifts, focusing on concept clarity, NCERT-based practice, and time discipline will be key to scoring higher in April.
Sources:
NTA — Official JEE Main 2026 Notification
JoSAA — Official Counselling Portal
Vedantu — JEE Main 2026 22 Jan Shift 2 Paper Analysis
Resonance — JEE Main 2026 Memory-Based Topic & Weightage Analysis
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