JEE Main 2026 Jan 22 Shift 1: Full Paper Review & Topic Analysis
Table of content
Key Takeaway
The JEE Main 2026 January 22 Shift 1 paper was moderate overall, with Physics being time-intensive, Chemistry highly NCERT-based and scoring, and Mathematics balanced yet formula-driven. Students who focused on conceptual understanding and speed management found the paper manageable.
Exam Overview
The JEE Main 2026 (22 January, Shift 1) paper followed NTA’s traditional pattern of 90 questions (75 to attempt) across Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. While there were no major surprises, Physics questions were lengthy, Chemistry favored NCERT learners, and Maths rewarded methodical solvers.
Subject Difficulty Overview
| Subject | Difficulty Level | Scoring Potential |
| Physics | Moderate to Hard | Moderate |
| Chemistry | Easy to Moderate | High |
| Mathematics | Moderate | High |
Student Feedback:
A majority of students reported that Physics took the most time, while Chemistry allowed quick scoring. Mathematics was conceptual but fair, with direct formula applications.
Subject-Wise Topic Analysis
Physics Topics Asked
| Topic | Number of Questions | Nature |
| Electrostatics | 2 | Numerical |
| Gravitation | 2 | Conceptual |
| Rotational Mechanics | 1 | Numerical |
| Magnetic Field | 1 | Conceptual |
| Kinetic Energy | 1 | Numerical |
| Induction | 1 | Conceptual |
| Logic Gates | 1 | Direct |
| Nuclear Physics | 2 | Direct |
| Thermodynamics | 2 | Numerical |
OGcollege Insight:
Physics required precision and quick recall of formulas. Questions from Electrostatics, Thermodynamics, and Gravitation were lengthy and tested application depth over memorization.
Mathematics Topics Asked
| Topic | Number of Questions | Notes |
| Vectors & 3D Geometry | 3 | Moderate difficulty |
| Coordinate Geometry | 3 | Included Hyperbola and Line questions |
| Calculus | 3 | Integration and Differential Equations |
| Arithmetic Progression | 1 | Direct |
| Binomial Theorem | 1 | Standard question |
OGcollege Insight:
Mathematics was concept-oriented and time-managed. Chapters like Vectors, Coordinate Geometry, and Calculus dominated, indicating continued emphasis on multi-step logical problems.
Chemistry Topics Asked
| Topic | Number of Questions | Question Type |
| Biomolecules | 1 | NCERT-based |
| Coordination Compounds | 1 | Theory |
| Mole Concept | 1 | Numerical |
| Chemical Kinetics | 2 | Conceptual |
| Chemical Reactions | Multiple | Direct |
| d- and f-Block Elements | 1 | NCERT-based |
| Salt Analysis | 1 | Conceptual |
OGcollege Insight:
Chemistry was the most scoring section. Around 80% of the questions were NCERT-based, especially from Organic and Inorganic topics. Students who revised theory line-by-line from NCERT found it easy.
Preparation Strategy for Upcoming April Attempt
1. Prioritize NCERT Mastery in Chemistry
- Revise Organic and Inorganic Chemistry from NCERT thoroughly.
- Focus on definitions, reactions, and exceptions — these are often asked directly.
2. Refine Physics Problem-Solving Skills
- Emphasize Electrostatics, Thermodynamics, Gravitation, and Magnetism.
- Practice calculation-based questions to build speed and accuracy.
3. Strengthen Maths Foundations
- Focus on Vectors, Coordinate Geometry, and Calculus.
- Attempt mock tests with time limits to manage lengthy calculations.
Review previous year question papers to understand recurring question trends.
Contextual Tip
Before finalizing your April session revision plan, use the OGcollege Rank Calculator to estimate your percentile and see where you stand. If you’re unsure about college options, try the College Predictor Tool for a personalized list of institutes based on your expected score.
Conclusion
The JEE Main 2026 January 22 Shift 1 paper maintained a balanced difficulty profile. While Physics challenged with time-bound numerical problems, Chemistry offered quick scoring opportunities, and Mathematics rewarded strategic practice.
For upcoming shifts, focus on:
- Strengthening conceptual clarity
- Managing speed under pressure
- Prioritizing NCERT revision and past paper analysis
Students who combine smart strategy with consistent mock test practice are likely to improve significantly in the next attempts.
Sources:-
NTA — Official JEE Main 2026 Notification
JoSAA — Official Counselling Portal
Vedantu — JEE Main 2026 Paper Review
Resonance — JEE Main 2026 Memory-Based Analysis
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