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JEE Main 2026 Session 1 exam continued on January 24, 2026, with the Shift 1 paper, giving students a clearer idea of the paper pattern and difficulty level for this year. Conducted by NTA, the exam tested students on Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, with a strong focus on concepts, calculations, and problem-solving skills.
As per student reactions, JEE Mains 24 Jan Shift 1 paper was moderate to difficult. The JEE Main shift 1 paper was lengthy and calculation-heavy. Due to this, time management became a major challenge for many candidates to solve JEE Mains Shift 1 question paper in time. As per JEE Mains 2026 analysis, several questions required multi-step solving and careful calculations, making accuracy just as important as speed. This shift clearly showed that strong basics, regular practice, and calm exam handling are key to doing well in JEE Main 2026. This JEE Main analysis helps aspirants understand the expected difficulty level and identify the important topics from where questions may appear in the upcoming shifts.
Also Check:
- JEE Mains 2026 Jan 21 Shift 1 Exam Analysis
- JEE Mains Jan 21 Shift 2 Paper Analysis 2026
- JEE Main January 22 2026, Shift 1 Paper Analysis
- JEE Main January 22, 2026 Shift 2 Paper Analysis
- JEE Main Januay 23, 2026 Shift 1 Paper Analysis
- JEE Main January 23 2026, Shift 2 Paper Analysis
Where To Check JEE Mains Paper Analysis 2026?
Regularly checking the JEE Main shift-wise paper analysis helps students understand the changing exam pattern, difficulty level, and the topics that matter most. To make this easier, the academic team at CollegeDost prepares a detailed JEE Main paper analysis for every shift, helping students not only review the paper but also plan better for the upcoming exams.
All the major insights are available in one place, including subject-wise difficulty levels, important topics from each section, and genuine student feedback. You can explore the complete JEE Main 2026 paper analysis through the link below, along with detailed reviews of previous exam days.
JEE Mains Mock Test: How Can Students Prepare For The Upcoming Shifts?
For the upcoming sessions of JEE Main 2026 exams, students can benefit from taking short, quick mock tests for fast revision. CollegeDost offers subject-wise and topic-wise JEE Main mock tests, each with small sets of 10-20 questions, making them easy to attempt in one sitting. These mini tests are perfect for 30-40 minutes of focused revision and include questions based on more than 12 years of JEE Main question paper.
Even practising a mock test without stressing over the score can be helpful. The real value lies in the revision, confidence boost, and exam-like experience it provides. At this stage, marks matter less than building mental readiness and calmness. These quick mock sessions help students feel more prepared and comfortable, which can make a big difference in the actual JEE Main exam the next day.
Recommended for JEE Mains 2026 aspirants 👇
JEE Main Paper Analysis 2026 January 24 2026 Shift 1
JEE Main 2026 January 24 Shift 1 paper was more about time management and concept application than direct questions. The paper was lengthy, and although most questions were doable, many students found it hard to complete the exam on time.
Maths took the most time, while Physics and Chemistry were moderate but still time-consuming. Students also noticed mixed-concept questions similar to JEE Advanced level. Following JEE Main Paper Analysis 2026, overall, the paper felt easy to moderate, but the real challenge was finishing it within the given time.
JEE Main 2026 Exam Difficulty Level Analysis: At a Glance
Based on student feedback and exam analysis, the subject-wise difficulty level of JEE Main 2026 is summarised below. Candidates can refer to JEE Main 2026 Exam Difficulty Level Analysis table below:
| Subject | Difficulty Level |
| Physics | Moderate to Easy |
| Chemistry | Easy to Moderate |
| Mathematics | Tough |
JEE Main Analysis: Physics Analysis
According to students’ reports, JEE Mains physics questions were characterised primarily by their length rather than conceptual difficulty. It heavily relied on formula application but required significant calculation time. The Physics section tested the students’ patience with calculations. Teachers noted that topics like Unit and Dimensions and EM waves provided “easy” marks through direct formula application.
Many students have reported that a significant portion of the paper was formula-based. For instance, questions on Electromagnetic Waves (EM Waves) and Viscosity were direct applications of formulas. However, calculations were time-consuming (e.g., thermodynamics work done, energy release in fission).
| Difficulty Level | Chapters Name | JEE Mains Physics Questions Asked from Key Topics |
| Moderate to Lengthy | Optics | Prism (TIR condition), Lens formula, Polarization (Brewster’s Law) |
| Electrodynamics | Magnetic field calculations (centroid of triangle), EMI (Ring on solenoid), Capacitors (dielectric insertion), Electrostatics (Dipole systems) | |
| Modern Physics | Energy released in fission, Isobars, De Broglie wavelength, Photoelectric effect | |
| Mechanics & Properties of Matter | Rotation (MOI of modified disc), Kinematics (Motion under gravity), Viscosity. |
JEE Main Analysis: Chemistry Analysis
According to the students, Chemistry was generally considered easier and faster to attempt compared to Physics, with several questions repeating concepts from previous shifts. Many students claim the paper to be easy who have studied JEE Mains PYQs and trends from earlier shifts. Experts noted that many questions followed a “common philosophical thread” or pattern seen in earlier shifts. As per the students, the questions were conceptual & Memory-Based. There was a mix of numerical types (Physical Chemistry) and theoretical questions (Inorganic/Organic). Practical Organic Chemistry (POC) appeared again, emphasising its importance. Let’s check, what questions were asked from JEE Mains 2026 Syllabus
| Difficulty Level | Chapters Name | JEE Mains Chemistry Questions Asked from Key Topics |
| Easy to Moderate | Organic Chemistry | Practical Organic Chemistry (Carius method, Nitrogen estimation), GOC (Carbocation stability), Reaction Mechanisms (Zinc-dust, Iodoform test, Friedel-Crafts, Aldol), Biomolecules (Chirality in DNA/RNA) |
| Inorganic Chemistry | Coordination Compounds (Hybridisation, CFT, Colour), Chemical Bonding, P-block (Group 15 electronegativity), Salt Analysis concepts. | |
| Physical Chemistry | Chemical Equilibrium (Le Chatelier’s), Mole Concept (POAC), Liquid Solutions (Raoult’s Law), Electrochemistry (Concentration cells), Kinetics. |
JEE Main Analysis: Mathematics Analysis
According to many students, Mathematics have received mixed reviews but was generally viewed as doable for students who selected questions wisely. Somes tudents found it tougher than the previous evening’s shift. Many students have reported that the Mathematics paper included “standard questions” found in the JEE Mains mock test, such as specific logarithmic equations.
| Difficulty Level | Chapters Name | JEE Mains Maths Questions Asked from Key Topics |
| Tough | Algebra | Sequence & Series (Sn formula), Complex Numbers (Euler form), Matrices (Adjoint/Inverse properties), Binomial/PNC (Distribution, Beggar’s method), Probability. |
| Calculus | Definite Integration (Area bounded by curves), Differential Equations (Linear DE), Limits & Continuity | |
| Coordinate Geometry | Parabola (Inscribed triangle), Ellipse, Hyperbola, Rhombus properties. | |
| Trigonometry & Vectors | Max/Min values, Vector identities |
Weightage Of Chapters In JEE Mains 2026
Based on the JEE Main 24 January Shift 1 paper, the following subject-wise tables show which chapters had higher, moderate, and lower importance in the exam. This JEE Main analysis can help students plan smarter revision and prioritise high-impact JEE Mains chapter-wise questions and topics
JEE Main 24 Jan Shift 1 Paper 2026: Mathematics Chapter-Wise Weightage
Mathematics in this shift was lengthy and time-consuming, with a clear focus on Conics, Vectors, and 3D Geometry. Chapters like Conic Sections carried the highest number of questions, while Algebra, Calculus, and Combinatorics had limited but important presence. Students needed both strong concepts and good calculation speed to handle this section. Let’s check JEE Mains Weightage for Mathematics in January 24, Shift 1 exam:
| Unit | Chapter | Total Questions in JEE Mains | Notes |
| 3D & Vectors | Vectors & 3D | 3 | High weightage |
| Coordinate | Coordinate Geometry | 2 | Standard |
| Conics | Conic Sections (overall) | 4 | Very high weightage |
| Conics | Hyperbola | 1 | Included within conics |
| Algebra | Complex Numbers | 1 | Doable |
| Combinatorics | Permutation & Combination | 1 | Standard |
| Algebra | Matrices / Determinants | 1 | Likely matrices/determinants |
| Calculus | Integration | 1 | Lengthy |
JEE Main 24 Jan Shift 1 Paper 2026: Physics Chapter-Wise Weightage
Physics was moderate in difficulty but highly time-consuming, with a strong focus on Optics, along with balanced coverage from Mechanics, Electricity, Magnetism, and Modern Physics. Topics like Ray Optics had higher weightage, while some chapters such as Capacitors, Sound Waves, and Centre of Mass were completely absent in this shift. To check JEE Mains Chapter-wise questions for Physics, you can refer to the table below:
| Unit | Chapter | Total Questions in JEE Mains | Notes |
| Optics | Ray Optics | 2–3 | Higher weightage |
| Optics | Prism | 1 | Standard |
| Optics | Microscope | 1 | Application-based |
| Optics | Wave Optics | 1 | Direct-concept |
| Modern Physics | Modern Physics | 1 | Not fully direct |
| Modern Physics | Semiconductor | 1 | Basic concept |
| Mechanics | Kinematics | 1 | Standard |
| Mechanics | NLM | 1 | Direct |
| Mechanics | Circular Motion | 1 | Doable |
| Mechanics | Rotation | 1 | Concept-based |
| Mechanics | Gravitation | 1 | Direct concept |
| Fluids | Fluid Mechanics | 1 | Included |
| Electrostatics | Electrostatics | 1 | Standard |
| Current Electricity | Current Electricity | 1 | Doable |
| Magnetism | Magnetic Effect of Current | 1 | Conceptual |
| EMI & AC | EMI | 1 | Standard |
| EMI & AC | AC | 1 | Formula-based |
| Not Asked | Capacitor | 0 | Not present |
| Not Asked | Sound Waves | 0 | Not present |
| Not Asked | Centre of Mass | 0 | Not present |
JEE Main 24 Jan Shift 1 Paper 2026: Chemistry
Chemistry was considered the easiest section overall, with a clear dominance of Physical and Inorganic Chemistry. Coordination Compounds had the highest weightage, mostly in statement-based and mixed-concept questions. Several common topics such as Salt Analysis, Biomolecules, P-Block, and Solid State were not asked in this shift.
| Branch | Chapter | Total Questions in JEE Mains | Notes |
| Inorganic | Coordination Compounds | 4 | Mostly statement-based + mixed |
| Inorganic | Chemical Bonding | 2–3 | Easy-to-moderate |
| Inorganic | Atomic Structure | 1 | Standard |
| Physical | Thermodynamics | 1 | Direct |
| Physical | Solutions | 1 | Formula-based |
| Physical | Electrochemistry | 2 | Mixed + calculation |
| Physical | Ionic + Electrochem (mixed) | Included | Integrated questions |
| Physical | Chemical Equilibrium | 1 | Concept-based |
| Physical | Mole Concept | 1 | Standard |
| Mixed | Chemical + Coordination combined | Included | Integrated framing |
| Not Asked | Salt Analysis | 0 | Not present |
| Not Asked | Biomolecules | 0 | Not present |
| Not Asked | P-block | 0 | Not present |
| Not Asked | Solid State | 0 | Not present |
JEE Mains Paper Analysis: 2025 vs 2026
From 2025 to 2026, the JEE Main exam has changed in many ways. The 2026 papers showed more variation between shifts, and the numerical questions became compulsory for all students. Maths difficulty changed across shifts, and Chemistry became more NCERT-focused, making time management and exam strategy more important than before
| Aspect of Comparison | JEE Mains 2025 Analysis | JEE Mains 2026 Analysis |
| Paper Difficulty Flow | Papers stayed within a predictable moderate range throughout the session. | Difficulty level shifted from paper to paper, with some shifts being unexpectedly tough or easy. |
| Question Format Rules | Numerical section allowed optional questions in several sessions. | Numerical questions are now compulsory with no optional choices. |
| Maths Behaviour | Maths was long and calculation-heavy in almost every shift. | Maths showed mixed behaviour — tough in early shifts, simpler in a few later ones. |
| Physics Behaviour | Focused more on numericals from mechanics and electricity. | More concept- and formula-driven, often the least difficult section. |
| Chemistry Behaviour | Alternated between memory-based and calculation-based questions. | Strong NCERT alignment, especially in Inorganic Chemistry. |
| Paper Balance | Subject difficulty remained fairly balanced across shifts. | Subject difficulty balance changed across different days and shifts. |
| Main Challenge for Students | Handling lengthy Maths papers. | Managing time due to compulsory numericals and paper length. |
Student’s Feedback to JEE Mains 24 Jan Shift 1 2026 Paper Analysis
The JEE Main 2026 January 24 Shift 1 examination has drawn a wide range of reactions from students across the country, reflecting varied experiences with the paper’s difficulty level, question patterns, and time management demands. As one of the early shifts in the January session, this paper set the tone for expectations around subject-wise balance, numerical intensity, and conceptual depth.
From Physics being perceived as moderately tricky to mixed opinions on Mathematics and Chemistry, students’ immediate feedback offers valuable insights for upcoming aspirants. This student reaction-based analysis highlights key takeaways, surprises, and overall sentiment surrounding the JEE Main 24 Jan Shift 1 paper.
Chemistry
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate for most students.
Students’ Feedback: One student reported completing the section in 30–35 minutes. Some students said that there was a noted emphasis on Class 11 Organic Chemistry, particularly General Organic Chemistry (GOC), with very few reaction mechanisms from Class 12 being asked. Many students have reported that most of the questions are from Inorganic and Organic Chemistry, which had a higher weightage compared to Physical Chemistry. Moreover, questions were largely conceptual and direct, and Biomolecules was reportedly skipped entirely in this paper. However, according to many students, coordination compounds were present in the exam.
Physics
Difficulty Level: Moderate to easy, with a mix of conceptual and formula-based questions.
Students’ Feedback: However, some students felt the “trend” had broken, with questions being more twisted or statement-based compared to previous years. Many students have reported that questions were direct formula applications, and there was a shift towards statement-based questions, requiring more analysis than simple calculation.
According to the students’ feedback, questions were from Ray Optics, which had high weightage, with approximately three questions followed by 2 questions from Electrostatics. The other topics that came were from EMI, AC, and a specific question from Nuclei. A few more students reported that Modern Physics reportedly had lower weightage than usual, and there was one question on Rotation.
Mathematics
Difficulty Level: Consistently described as tough, hard, and lengthy.
Students’ Feedback: According to many students, the section was highly calculative; while questions seemed “doable” logically, the calculations were extensive, often requiring multiple steps that expanded the answer further. Due to the length, many students attempted this section last, leaving them with insufficient time (e.g., around 70 minutes) to complete it comfortably.
Overall, Students’ said that the paper generally followed a pattern where Chemistry was the easiest, Physics was moderate, and Mathematics was the toughest and most time-consuming. Some students felt that a significant portion, particularly in Organic Chemistry, came from the Class 11 JEE Mains Syllabus 2026
Check: JEE Main Paper Pattern 2026
JEE Mains Answer Key Response Sheet
National Testing Agency will release the JEE Main 2026 provisional answer key along with the individual response sheet on the official candidate dashboard at jeemain.nta.nic.in. Students will be able to check their marked answers and compare them with the official responses provided by NTA.
Along with the answer key, the answer key challenge window will also open on the same day. This window usually remains active for the next two days. During this time, students who feel that any answer is incorrect can raise objections by submitting valid proof and supporting documents. This process allows candidates to challenge responses they believe are wrong before the final answer key is released.
How to Check JEE Mains 2026 Answer key?
Students can follow the steps below to easily access and download the JEE Main 2026 answer key and response sheet:
- Visit the official website of JEE Main 2026 at jeemain.nta.nic.in.
- Click on the link for JEE Main 2026 Answer Key / Candidate Response Sheet available on the homepage.
- You will be redirected to the login page. Enter your application number, password, and date of birth.
- After logging in, your answer key and response sheet will appear on the screen.
- Download and save the files for future reference and result calculation.
JEE Mains 2026 Percentile Predictor
Once you calculate your expected marks using the JEE Main 2026 answer key, you’ll get a fair idea of your probable score. To understand your performance better, you can also use CollegeDost’s JEE Main 2026 Percentile Predictor Tool, which helps estimate your percentile. Along with this, the CollegeDost Rank Predictor gives you an early idea of your possible rank.
These tools help students understand where they stand among other candidates and what kind of colleges and branches they may get, even before the official results are declared. This early clarity helps reduce stress and allows students to prepare in advance for results and JoSAA counselling, making the entire process more manageable and less stressful.
JEE Mains 2026 Exam Day Guidelines For Upcoming Shifts
To help students stay calm and well-prepared on exam day, it is important to understand the JEE Main 2026 exam day guidelines clearly. Following the correct reporting time, carrying the required documents, and knowing the do’s and don’ts in advance can help avoid last-minute confusion and unnecessary stress during the upcoming shifts.
Shift Timings
- Morning shift: Reporting by 7:30-8:30 AM, gates close at 8:30 AM, exam from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (3 hours).
- Afternoon shift: Reporting by 1:00-2:30 PM, gates close at 2:30 PM, exam from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (3 hours).
- No entry after gate closure; arrive 1 hour early for security and biometrics.
Documents Required
- Printed JEE Main 2026 admit card with photo and venue details.
- Valid government ID (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID, etc.) and one passport-size photo.​
- No bags or electronics allowed; rough sheets provided at center.
Dress Code Rules
- Light clothing without metal (avoid jewelry, belts, ties); half-sleeve shirts for males.
- Caps, scarves, or goggles prohibited; transparent water bottle permitted.​
Pre-Exam Preparation
- Wake early for morning shift (light breakfast by 6 AM); light lunch for afternoon (by 12:30 PM).​
- Sleep well the night before, stay calm, and review instructions on admit card.​
- Reach center early to handle frisking, document check, and seating.​
During Exam
- Follow the invigilator’s instructions; read the questions carefully and manage time.​
- Use on-screen calculator; no rough work outside provided sheets.​
- Stay until the exam ends; no breaks or early exit.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis so far, the JEE Main 24 January Shift 1 paper was moderate to difficult, mainly due to its length and calculation-heavy nature, even though most questions were conceptually doable. The paper clearly tested students on time management, accuracy, and conceptual clarity, making it more challenging to complete within the given time.
The JEE Main exam analysis helps aspirants understand the expected difficulty level, subject-wise trends, and the important topics from where questions are likely to be asked in the upcoming shifts. Stay connected with us to get shift-wise JEE Main 2026 paper analysis, along with student feedback, unofficial answer keys, and expert insights for all remaining sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many questions were there in JEE Main 24 January Shift 1?
JEE Main 24 January Shift 1 had a total of 90 questions, 30 each from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Students were required to attempt 75 questions, 25 from each subject.
2. What was the difficulty level of JEE Main 24 January Shift 1?
The overall difficulty level of JEE Main 24 January Shift 1 was moderate to difficult. The paper was lengthy and calculation-heavy.
3. Which subject was the toughest in JEE Main 24 January Shift 1?
Mathematics was the toughest and most time-consuming subject in JEE Main 24 January Shift 1.
4. Which subject was the easiest in JEE Main 24 January Shift 1?
Chemistry was considered the easiest section by most students in JEE Main 24 January Shift 1.
5. Were numerical questions compulsory in JEE Main 24 January Shift 1?
Yes, in JEE Main 2026, numerical questions are compulsory, and students must attempt all 5 numerical questions per subject.
6. Was JEE Main 24 January Shift 1 based on the NCERT syllabus?
Yes, JEE Main 24 January Shift 1 was largely based on the NCERT syllabus, especially in Chemistry.
7. Where can students check the analysis of the JEE Main 24 January Shift 1 paper?
Students can check the detailed JEE Main 24 January Shift 1 paper analysis on platforms like CollegeDost, which provide subject-wise difficulty, topic-wise weightage, student feedback, and answer key updates.
