
JEE Main 2026 21 Jan Shift 1 Mathematics Exam Analysis reveals that the paper was moderate in difficulty but lengthy, with a strong focus on calculation-based and multi-step numerical questions. The National Testing Agency (NTA) examined 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM across centres nationwide as part of Session 1.
As per student feedback and expert reviews, time management played a decisive role in this shift, with most candidates requiring 70 to 90 minutes to complete the Maths section.
This session maintained the standard JEE Main pattern and stayed completely within the prescribed syllabus.
| Particular | Details |
| Exam Date | 21 January 2026 |
| Shift | Morning (Shift 1) |
| Timing | 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Conducting Authority | NTA |
| Section | Mathematics |
| Overall Level | Moderate |
| Nature of Questions | Lengthy, calculation-intensive |
According to candidates who appeared in the exam:
The paper was not conceptually tough, but time-consuming
Majority of questions required step-by-step solving
Very few one-line or direct formula-based answers
Strong fundamentals in Geometry and Calculus proved highly beneficial
Overall, the JEE Mains 2026 Shift 1 Maths difficulty level can be categorised as moderate to moderately lengthy.
The Mathematics paper covered a balanced mix of Class 11 and Class 12 topics, with slightly higher weightage from Class 11.
The Mathematics section featured fewer calculus questions overall, with emphasis on algebra and coordinate geometry topics from Class 11-12 syllabus.
| Topics | Number of Questions |
| Calculus | Relatively fewer |
| Vector Algebra & 3D Geometry | 2-3 |
| Quadratic Equations | 1 |
| Sequence & Series | 1 |
| PnC & Probability (combined) | 1 |
| Straight Lines | 2 |
| Circle | 1 |
| Matrices (lengthy) | 1 |
| Sets & Relations | 2 |
| Arithmetic & Geometric Progression | Included |
| Conic Sections (1 each: Parabola, Ellipse, Hyperbola) | 3 |
| Application of Derivatives | 1 |
| Binomial Theorem | Included |
| Trigonometry | Included |
Vectors & 3D Geometry formed a major chunk
Calculus questions were mostly from limits and continuity
Algebra was comparatively light and scoring
Physics Wallah has released Memory-based question papers and Detailed solutions along with Shift-wise answer. These resources will help candidates evaluate performance and plan their next phase of preparation effectively.
JEE Main 2026 Maths Question Paper & Answer Key PDF
The JEE Main 2026 21 Jan Shift 1 Maths paper showed:
Slight dominance of Class 11 syllabus
Coordinate Geometry
Sets & Relations
Probability
Major Class 12 contributions from:
Calculus
Vectors & 3D Geometry
Despite this, the paper maintained a balanced syllabus structure, aligning with NTA’s standard blueprint.
Students analysing the paper shared that:
Calculation speed was crucial
Time pressure was noticeable in the last 30 minutes
Accuracy mattered more than attempting extra questions
Geometry-heavy sections consumed maximum time
Many candidates felt that a score above average would depend on selective attempts with high accuracy.
Candidates appearing in later shifts of Session 1 can follow these targeted tips:
Focus on Coordinate Geometry, Calculus, Vectors & 3D Geometry
Revise formulas from Limits, Continuity, and Integration
Practise lengthy numerical problems daily
Solve recent JEE Main maths papers
Attempt full-length mock tests under time limits
Strengthen NCERT-based Probability and Algebra
Avoid last-minute overloading
Aim for precision, not blind attempts