JEE Main Exam Pattern 2026: Paper Structure, Marking Scheme & Analysis
Understanding the exact exam pattern is the first step to cracking JEE Main. Knowing how many questions to expect, the marking scheme, and time allocation helps you plan your attempt strategy.
Paper 1 Structure (B.Tech/B.E.)
Paper 1 has 90 questions across Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics — 30 per subject. Section A has 20 MCQs (4 options, single correct). Section B has 10 Numerical Value Questions (attempt any 5). Total marks: 300. Duration: 3 hours.
Marking Scheme
MCQ correct: +4, wrong: -1, unattempted: 0. Numerical correct: +4, wrong: -1, unattempted: 0. Note: For Section B, only 5 of 10 are marked — choose your best 5. The negative marking of -1 means leave uncertain MCQs unanswered.
Session and Shift Pattern
JEE Main is held in multiple sessions (typically January and April). Each session has 2 shifts per day. Each shift has a different paper. Your best score across sessions is considered for ranking.
Paper 2 (B.Arch/B.Planning)
Paper 2A (B.Arch): Mathematics (30 Qs) + Aptitude (50 Qs) + Drawing (2 Qs). Paper 2B (B.Planning): Mathematics (30 Qs) + Aptitude (50 Qs) + Planning (25 Qs). Most students focus on Paper 1 for B.Tech.
Attempt Strategy Based on Pattern
Target: 18-20 correct MCQs per subject (avoid negative marking). In Section B, attempt only the 5 you are most confident about. Chemistry should be finished in 40-45 minutes, leaving more time for Physics and Maths.
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