JEE Main 2026: 23 January Shift 2 Full Paper Review & Topic Analysis

Key Takeaway

The JEE Main 2026 – 23 January Shift 2 paper was moderate to lengthy, with Physics and Mathematics proving calculation-intensive, and Chemistry emerging as comparatively easier and NCERT-oriented. Students who balanced speed, accuracy, and concept clarity performed better in this exam shift.

Exam Overview

The JEE Main 2026 – 23 January Shift 2 was held in a computer-based format with 75 questions (25 per subject) and a maximum of 300 marks. Candidates reported an overall moderate difficulty level, with each section presenting its own challenges. While Chemistry was scoring for most aspirants, Physics and Mathematics required high accuracy and time management.

Overall Difficulty Level

Student feedback highlights:
Many students described Physics as the most time-consuming, Chemistry as relatively direct, and Mathematics as lengthy due to multi-step problems.

Subject-Wise Analysis

Physics

Physics was viewed as moderate to tough, focusing on deeper conceptual understanding and calculation intensity. Topics that appeared frequently included fluid mechanics, electrostatics, modern physics, and rotational motion, requiring higher-order reasoning.

OGcollege Insight:
Physics demands strong grasp of core concepts and practice of problem sets that combine formulas with real-world reasoning.

Chemistry

Chemistry stood out as the most scoring section — primarily because of NCERT-based and statement-type questions. Organic and inorganic topics saw good representation, and students found this section easier to navigate compared to Physics and Maths.

OGcollege Insight:
A thorough revision of NCERT fundamentals helps cover most questions in Chemistry.

Mathematics

Mathematics was moderate in difficulty but lengthy, with several questions requiring multi-step reasoning. Major areas included coordinate geometry, straight lines and circles, quadratic equations, calculus, and vector concepts, demanding both accuracy and time control.

OGcollege Insight:
Consistent practice of previous year papers and mock tests sharpens both speed and strategic question selection in Mathematic

Key Observations & Trends

• Balanced paper pattern: NTA maintained a similar structure across subjects and shifts, ensuring balanced testing of concepts.
• Chemistry was the highest scoring due to direct and NCERT-aligned questions.
• Physics and Mathematics were more demanding, requiring careful time allotment and conceptual clarity.
• Time management was crucial — especially in Physics and Maths.

Preparation Strategy for Upcoming Shifts

1. Strengthen Core Concepts

• Focus on Fluid Mechanics, Electrostatics, Rotational Motion in Physics.
• Prioritize Coordinate Geometry, Calculus, Vectors in Mathematics.
• Revise NCERT thoroughly for Chemistry to secure easy marks.

2. Practice Timed Mock Tests

Attempt full-length tests under strict time conditions to improve pacing and question prioritization.

3. Analyze Trends Across Shifts

Review patterns from other shifts (21st, 22nd, and 23rd morning) to spot recurring high-yield topics. This helps tailor the revision plan more effectively.

Contextual Tip

Before setting your final revision schedule for the April attempt, check your expected percentile with the OGcollege Rank Calculator. To explore college options based on your JEE Main score, use the College Predictor Tool for personalized insights.

Conclusion

The JEE Main 2026 – 23 January Shift 2 exam presented a balanced yet demanding challenge. While Chemistry was relatively easier and high-scoring, Physics and Mathematics pushed students’ conceptual depth and calculation speed. Aspirants can improve future performance by strengthening fundamentals, focusing on high-weightage topics, and managing time effectively.

Verified Sources:

• NTA — Official JEE Main 2026 Notification
• Shiksha — JEE Main 2026 Jan 23 Shift2 Question Paper & Key
• Physics Wallah — JEE Main 2026 Jan 23 Shift 2 Analysis