The JEE Main syllabus is Class 11 and 12 Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, as notified by NTA — 75 questions, 300 marks, 3 hours, with 25 questions per subject (20 MCQ + 5 numerical). Paper 1 is for B.E./B.Tech; Paper 2A and 2B cover B.Arch and B.Planning separately and add Drawing and Planning sections. The three subjects carry exactly equal weight, which is the single most important planning fact.
Below is the chapter list by subject, with where the marks actually concentrate.
The paper #
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Physics | 20 MCQ + 5 numerical | 100 |
| Chemistry | 20 MCQ + 5 numerical | 100 |
| Mathematics | 20 MCQ + 5 numerical | 100 |
| Total | 75 | 300 (3 hours) |
Marking: +4 correct, −1 incorrect, including on numerical questions.
Mathematics #
Sets, Relations and Functions · Complex Numbers and Quadratic Equations · Matrices and Determinants · Permutations and Combinations · Binomial Theorem · Sequences and Series · Limits, Continuity and Differentiability · Integral Calculus · Differential Equations · Coordinate Geometry · Three-Dimensional Geometry · Vector Algebra · Statistics and Probability · Trigonometry
Heaviest blocks: Calculus, Coordinate Geometry and Algebra.
Physics #
Class 11: Units and Measurements · Kinematics · Laws of Motion · Work, Energy and Power · Rotational Motion · Gravitation · Properties of Solids and Liquids · Thermodynamics · Kinetic Theory of Gases · Oscillations and Waves
Class 12: Electrostatics · Current Electricity · Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism · Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents · Electromagnetic Waves · Optics · Dual Nature of Matter and Radiation · Atoms and Nuclei · Electronic Devices · Experimental Skills
Heaviest blocks: Mechanics, Electrodynamics, Modern Physics.
Chemistry #
Physical: Basic Concepts · Atomic Structure · Chemical Bonding · Thermodynamics · Solutions · Equilibrium · Redox and Electrochemistry · Chemical Kinetics
Inorganic: Periodic Table and Periodicity · p-Block · d- and f-Block · Coordination Compounds
Organic: Purification and Characterisation · Basic Principles · Hydrocarbons · Organic Compounds containing Halogens, Oxygen and Nitrogen · Biomolecules
- Equal weight across three subjects means a weak subject cannot be offset by a strong one — 100 marks are 100 marks. Balance is not optional in JEE Main.
- The five numerical questions per subject carry negative marking now. Guessing them is expensive.
- NTA publishes a deleted/rationalised syllabus most years. Check the current notification; coaching lists lag.
- Experimental Skills in Physics is regularly skipped and regularly asked.
JEE Main syllabus — frequently asked questions
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Disclaimer: The syllabus follows the latest NTA information bulletin and is revised periodically. Verify for your exam year.
