JEE Main 2026 LIVE: Jan 21 to 24 Question Papers & Solutions PDF, Shift Wise Analysis & Marks vs Percentile

The second shift of the day was generally rated as moderate. While Physics and Chemistry were scoring for many, Mathematics remained a challenge due to its execution length. Experts noted that the first few days of the session generally appear easier compared to later dates.

The Chemistry section was rated moderate to difficult and was considered notably lengthy. Physical Chemistry was identified as the toughest branch due to extensive, time-consuming calculations. Inorganic Chemistry questions were largely NCERT-based but often lengthy to read and solve.

Candidates found the Physics section in the first shift of JEE Main 21 Jan exam to be easy to moderate. The questions featured a balanced mix of conceptual and formula-based problems. Prominent topics included Mechanics, Modern Physics, and Electrostatics, making it a manageable section for those with clear fundamentals.

The Mathematics section in JEE Mains 21 Jan Shift 1 was moderate in difficulty but very lengthy. Coordinate Geometry, Vectors, and 3D Geometry dominated the paper. Most questions were calculation-intensive, and many candidates required 70 to 90 minutes to complete this section alone.

The morning session of the first day was rated moderate in difficulty by most candidates and experts,. While the paper followed the standard NTA pattern, it was noted for being lengthy, requiring effective time management across all three subjects. Some sources suggest Shift 1 was conceptually tougher than Shift 2.

In the JEE Main 2026 January session, the Chemistry section was no longer the traditional "easy and scoring" one. It was on the other hand, it had many complex questions with multi-concept problems.

In fact, unlike previous years where direct NCERT-based questions dominated, the 2026 papers featured many statement-based questions. Some questions included up to six or seven statements that required individual verification, making them both tricky and time-consuming.

Physical chemistry questions were calculation-heavy

Physical Chemistry was notably calculation-heavy. Candidates who attempted the January 24 (Shift 2) exam said that the questions from physical chemistry were "very calculation-heavy" and "lengthy," with a significant focus on topics like Equilibrium, Thermodynamics, and Electrochemistry.

The JEE Main 2026 January session, which began on January 21, has emerged as a significant "trend breaker" due to unexpected shifts in difficulty distribution and subject-wise weightage. As of January 25, 2026, the exam has challenged traditional preparation methods by prioritising complex, multi-concept problems over straightforward, formula-based questions.

This year, there have been some observations:

1. Chemistry beyond NCERT: Experts report that solely relying on NCERT textbooks is no longer sufficient for high scores.
2. JEE Advanced level questions: The 2026 papers feature a higher frequency of mixed-concept questions and patterns typically seen in JEE Advanced.
3. Time Management:  Almost all shifts so far have been reported as "moderate but very lengthy". Many well-prepared candidates could only attempt 50–55 questions, making speed and selectivity the primary factors for success.