JEE Main 2026 Mathematics paper was conducted across multiple shifts during the January session and received mixed to challenging feedback from candidates. Overall, Maths emerged as the most difficult section compared to Physics and Chemistry in most exam shifts.
JEE Main 2026 Maths Difficulty Level
The Mathematics section in JEE Main 2026 was rated moderate to tough by a majority of students. While the questions were conceptually aligned with the syllabus, they were lengthy and calculation-heavy, making time management a key challenge. Several candidates reported that even well-prepared students could attempt only 10 to 14 questions comfortably due to the time required to solve each problem. In comparison to previous years, Maths in 2026 demanded greater speed and accuracy.
JEE Main 2026 Maths: Topic-Wise Weightage
The Maths paper included a balanced mix of Class 11 and Class 12 syllabus topics. However, some chapters carried higher weightage and required multi-step problem-solving. Major topics covered included:
- Calculus, especially integrals and applications of derivatives
- Coordinate Geometry, including circles and conic sections
- Algebra, with questions from sequences and series, matrices, and determinants
- Vectors and 3D Geometry, which appeared in almost all shifts
Most questions were numerical and required detailed calculations rather than direct formula application.
JEE Main 2026 Shift-Wise Maths Paper Trends
Across morning and evening shifts, the difficulty trend remained largely consistent. While a few shifts were rated slightly easier, Mathematics continued to be the most time-consuming section. In certain shifts, questions from Calculus and Coordinate Geometry dominated the paper, whereas Algebra and Vector-based questions were evenly distributed. Students noted that skipping lengthy questions was necessary to manage time effectively.
Student Reactions to JEE Main 2026 Maths
Student feedback highlighted that Maths demanded more effort compared to Physics and Chemistry. Many aspirants found it challenging to balance speed and accuracy under exam pressure. Despite the toughness, students also noted that the questions were syllabus-based and predictable, rewarding those with strong conceptual clarity and regular practice.
Overall Subject-Wise Difficulty Comparison
Based on candidate reactions across shifts, the general difficulty order was:
- Mathematics – Tough
- Physics – Moderate
- Chemistry – Easy to Moderate