JEE Main 2026: 24 January Shift 1 Full Paper Review & Topic Analysis

Key Takeaway

The JEE Main 2026 – 24 January Shift 1 paper was moderate overall with balanced difficulty. While Chemistry remained the most scoring, Physics and Mathematics demanded careful conceptual application and time management. Aspirants with strong fundamentals and strategy benefited from targeted revision and mock test practice.

Exam Overview

The JEE Main 2026 Jan 24 Shift 1 exam followed NTA’s standard pattern of 75 questions (25 per subject) and a full score of 300 marks in a computer-based mode. Students rated the overall difficulty as moderate, with a relatively balanced distribution of questions across topics. Both recall-based and application-oriented problems appeared, demanding clarity of concepts and efficient time management. 

Overall Difficulty Level

Student Feedback:
Students found the paper balanced with predictable patterns. While Mathematics involved multi-step reasoning, Physics tested formulas with application, and Chemistry emphasized NCERT-based questions with high accuracy potential.

Subject-Wise Analysis

Physics

Physics was moderate in difficulty, combining conceptual questions with direct formula applications. Topics such as Electrostatics, Current Electricity, Modern Physics, and Optics were highlighted.

OGcollege Insight:
Physics rewarded concept clarity and formula recall. Practice on application-based concepts enhances performance. 

Chemistry

Chemistry remained highly NCERT-oriented, making it one of the most scoring sections for well-prepared aspirants.

OGcollege Insight:
Chemistry was dominated by textbook-based and straightforward questions, giving scoring opportunities to students with solid NCERT revision. 

Mathematics

Mathematics was moderate overall, with emphasis on calculation and multi-step problems involving key chapters:

OGcollege Insight:
Mathematics continues to reward strategic problem selection and timed practice. Mock tests and past papers are crucial for speed management.

Key Observations & Trends

• Balanced Difficulty: The paper maintained a predictable and balanced structure in line with NTA’s exam blueprint. 
• NCERT Focus: Chemistry again rewarded NCERT-based preparation. 
• Time Management Matters: Students performing well managed their time distribution efficiently across sections.
• Application-Based Questions: Physics and Maths incorporated concept applications — not just recall.

Preparation Strategy for Upcoming Shifts

1. Reinforce Fundamental Concepts

• Focus on formula drills and applications in Physics.
• Revise core organic and inorganic chemistry concepts from NCERT.
• Strengthen calculus, coordinate geometry, and algebra in Mathematics.

2. Practice Mock Tests Frequently

Time-bound mock test practice improves pacing and helps refine strategic question selection for the actual exam.

3. Analyse Previous Shift Patterns

Compare the 21st, 22nd and 23rd shifts to identify high-yield chapters and recurring question trends, and tailor your study plan accordingly.

Contextual Tip

Before finalizing your April revision schedule, use the OGcollege Rank Calculator to estimate your expected percentile. To shortlist colleges based on your performance, try the College Predictor Tool for personalized recommendations.

Conclusion

The JEE Main 2026 – 24 January Shift 1 paper was balanced and manageable for candidates with sharp fundamentals. Chemistry provided the highest scoring potential, while Physics and Mathematics demanded time discipline and concept clarity. Aspirants should reinforce NCERT concepts, practice mock tests rigorously, and focus on high-impact chapters to perform better in future shifts.

Verified Sources:

• NTA — Official JEE Main 2026 Notification
• Physics Wallah — JEE Main 2026 Jan 24 Shift 1 Analysis & Difficulty
• Vedantu — JEE Main 2026 Jan 24 Shift 1 Paper Review