JEE Main 2026 Jan 22 Shift 2 Analysis: Difficulty, Topics, Review

The National Testing Agency conducted the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 examination for 22 January 2026 Shift 2 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in computer-based test mode. The paper consisted of 75 questions carrying a total of 300 marks, evenly divided among Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Based on student feedback and early expert reviews, the overall structure of the paper remained aligned with the prescribed JEE Main pattern, with no major deviations from the syllabus.

JEE Main 2026 Jan 22 Shift 2 Exam Pattern Overview

Before assessing the subject-wise difficulty, it is important to understand the overall paper framework followed by NTA in this shift. The key exam details are outlined below:

• Exam duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
• Total questions: 75 (25 per subject)
• Total marks: 300
• Marking scheme: +4 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect answer
• Mode of examination: Computer-Based Test

The paper tested conceptual clarity, numerical accuracy, and time management skills.

Overall Difficulty Level of JEE Main 2026 January 22 Shift 2

Candidates rated the overall difficulty level as moderate. The paper included a mix of direct NCERT-based questions and calculation-intensive problems. While Physics and Chemistry were manageable for most students, Mathematics required careful time allocation due to lengthy problem statements. The exam focused more on application of concepts rather than rote memorisation.

Physics Analysis for JEE Main 2026 Jan 22 Shift 2

The Physics section was considered easy to moderate in difficulty. Many candidates were able to complete the section within a reasonable time. Key features of the Physics paper included:

• Questions from Ray Optics, Modern Physics, and Fluid Mechanics
• Formula-based numericals with limited multi-step calculations
• Fewer questions from traditionally high-weightage chapters

Overall, Physics was not lengthy and allowed students to score with conceptual clarity.

Chemistry Analysis for JEE Main 2026 Jan 22 Shift 2

Chemistry emerged as the most scoring section in this shift. The questions were largely NCERT-based and straightforward. Before listing topics, it is important to note that Organic and Inorganic Chemistry dominated the section. Major observations include:

• Organic Chemistry focused on reaction-based and theory questions
• Inorganic Chemistry included statement-based questions
• Physical Chemistry had fewer but direct numerical questions

Coordination Compounds, Thermodynamics, Electrochemistry, Biomolecules, and Ionic Equilibrium were among the visible topics.

Mathematics Analysis for JEE Main 2026 Jan 22 Shift 2

Mathematics was reported as the most time-consuming section of the paper. While questions were conceptually familiar, lengthy calculations increased difficulty. Key highlights of the Mathematics section include:

• Questions from Vectors and 3D Geometry had noticeable weightage
• Calculus problems involved multi-step solutions
• Accuracy and speed played a crucial role

Students with strong calculation skills were better positioned to attempt more questions.

Key Takeaways for Upcoming JEE Main Shifts

The January 22 Shift 2 paper reflects NTA’s consistent approach toward balanced question papers. Candidates preparing for upcoming shifts can expect similar difficulty levels, with emphasis on NCERT-based Chemistry, application-driven Physics, and time-intensive Mathematics. Analysing this shift can help aspirants fine-tune time management strategies and prioritise high-weightage topics without making early assumptions about cut-offs or results.