JEE Main Exam Pattern 2025 - Simplified Explanation

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The Joint Entrance Examination, JEE (Main), is conducted for admission to Undergraduate Engineering Programs (B.E/B.Tech.) at NITs, IIITs, other Centrally Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs), and Institutions/Universities funded/recognized by participating State Governments. JEE (Main) is also an eligibility test for JEE (Advanced), which is conducted for admission to IITs. 

The Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Government of India has entrusted the responsibility of conducting the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE Main) to the NTA from 2019 onwards.

Understanding the JEE Main exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation as it determines the format and structure of the test. Familiarizing oneself with this pattern aids in managing time and prioritizing sections. The JEE Main exam will emphasize conceptual understanding, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills to assess candidates' overall aptitude. Aligned with NTA's syllabus, the exam evaluates knowledge and application of physics, chemistry, and mathematics concepts to solve complex problems.

JEE Main Exam Pattern 2024 Overview

The JEE Main exam comprises two papers: Paper 1 for B.E./B.Tech courses and Paper 2 for B.Arch/B.Planning courses. Paper 1 consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), while Paper 2 includes both MCQs and drawing-based questions. Both papers are conducted online as computer-based tests, providing a modern testing experience for candidates.

Some key changes in the JEE Main exam pattern include the introduction of numerical value-based questions, giving students an opportunity to demonstrate their problem-solving skills without the pressure of multiple-choice options. The number of questions has been reduced, allowing more time for each question. Notably, there is no longer any negative marking for numerical value-based questions.

Also Read: JEE Main Detailed Eligibility Criteria

Here is the table for a better understanding of the JEE Main exam pattern (Paper 1)

JEE Main Exam Pattern for B.Arch and B.Plan (Paper 2)

JEE Main exam Paper 2 pattern is different for B.Arch and B.Planning.

B.Arch (Paper 2A)

The exam is held in online and offline mode. The Aptitude and Mathematics test is conducted in online mode, and the Art or Structure Drawing test is held in pen and paper or offline mode.

• Only 2 questions are asked from the drawing section, which assesses the drawing skills of the candidates.
• 20 MCQs and 10 numerical questions are asked in the Mathematics section
• 50 questions are asked in the Aptitude section.

For B.Plan (Paper 2B)

The exam for B.Arch is conducted in online mode. Questions are asked from 3 subjects, namely Planning, Mathematics, and Aptitude.

• 25 questions are asked in the planning section.
• 20 MCQs and 10 numerical questions are asked in the Mathematics section.
• 50 questions are asked in the Aptitude section.

Here is an overview:

Syllabus Outline

The JEE Main syllabus covers topics from physics, chemistry, and mathematics taught in classes 11 and 12. It encompasses chapters like mechanics, thermodynamics, organic chemistry, algebra, calculus, etc., offering a comprehensive assessment of students' understanding of these subjects.

Some important topics are as follows:

For a detailed syllabus, refer to this article. 

JEE main Exam Pattern: Subject-Wise Marks Distribution

JEE Main is one of the most competitive engineering entrance exams in India. It is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and serves as the gateway for students to get admission into prestigious engineering colleges across the country. One important aspect of JEE Main is the subject-wise marks distribution.

The JEE Main exam consists of three subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Each subject carries equal weightage, with a total of 300 marks. This means that each subject is allocated 100 marks. The marks distribution for each subject is further divided into different topics and chapters.

In Physics, topics like Mechanics, Optics, Thermodynamics, and Electricity & Magnetism are given significant importance. Students need to have a strong understanding of these topics to score well in the Physics section.

Chemistry is divided into three parts: Physical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. Physical Chemistry focuses on concepts like atomic structure, chemical bonding, and thermodynamics. Inorganic Chemistry deals with elements and their properties, while Organic Chemistry revolves around carbon compounds and reactions.

Mathematics is a crucial subject in JEE Main, with topics like Algebra, Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, and Trigonometry being extensively covered. Students need to have a strong grasp of mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills to excel in this section.

It is important for students to understand the marks distribution for each subject and allocate their study time accordingly. By focusing on the topics that carry more weight, students can maximize their chances of scoring well in JEE Main.

Subject-wise Marks Distribution in JEE Main for B.E./B.Tech

JEE Main Exam Pattern for B.Arch 

JEE Main Exam Pattern for B.Plan 

JEE Main Exam Pattern: Questions Types, Time Allocation, Marking Scheme & More

Question Types

The JEE Main exam incorporates various question types, including multiple-choice questions (MCQs), numerical value-based questions, and drawing-based questions. With MCQs, candidates must choose the correct answer from the given options. Conversely, numerical value-based questions necessitate entering a numerical answer without any provided options.

For example:

• In the mathematics section of the JEE Main exam, students might encounter MCQs related to calculus or algebra.
• Numerical value-based questions may require candidates to solve physics problems and enter the calculated values directly.

Section Distribution

The JEE Main exam is structured into three distinct sections: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Each segment holds equal significance in terms of marks awarded. As a result, candidates should strategically allocate their time to ensure comprehensive coverage of each section within the stipulated timeframe.

In practice:

• Candidates need to prepare for all three subjects with equal focus due to their equivalent weightage in the examination.
• A balanced understanding of physics concepts alongside strong problem-solving skills in mathematics is crucial for success in this competitive engineering entrance test.

Time Allocation

The time limit for JEE Main is 3 hours. Effective time management is required to successfully navigate the JEE Main exam. Allocating time equally among all three sections enables candidates to attempt each segment with ample attention while ensuring completion within the designated timeframe.

To illustrate:

• Dividing available time evenly among physics, chemistry, and mathematics aids students in maintaining an appropriate pace throughout the examination.
• Efficiently managing time allows examinees to avoid rushing through any particular section while maximizing their overall performance.

Drawing Section Insights

In Paper 2 of JEE Main, the drawing section evaluates candidates' sketching and visualization skills. This segment encompasses questions related to perspective drawing, architectural awareness, and creativity. Aspiring candidates can enhance their performance in this section by practicing previous years' drawing questions.

Planning Assessment

For B.Planning aspirants taking Paper 2 of JEE Main, there is a dedicated planning assessment section. This part assesses candidates' comprehension of planning concepts, spatial reasoning abilities, and problem-solving skills. To excel in this segment, it is beneficial for candidates to familiarize themselves with urban planning concepts and practice sample questions.

Marking Scheme

In the JEE Main exam, candidates encounter multiple-choice questions (MCQs) where they must choose the correct option from a set of choices.

• For MCQs and NVQs, four marks are for each correct answer, and one mark is deducted for each incorrect answer.
• No mark (Zero) for Unanswered / Marked for Review.
• For the Planning Questions, candidates are evaluated on their understanding of spatial ability, planning concepts, and problem-solving skills.

What After JEE Course Completion? 

Clearing the JEE and completing an engineering course from a reputed institution such as an IIT, NIT, or IIIT opens up many career prospects. 

Here are some of the top career paths you can pursue after completing your engineering degree:

Corporate Jobs in Engineering & Technology

Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, System Analyst, Network Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Design Engineer

Industries: IT and Software, Telecommunications, Electronics, Semiconductor, Automotive

Companies: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Intel, Qualcomm, TCS, Infosys, Wipro, IBM

Research & Development (R&D)

Roles: Research Scientist, Development Engineer, Innovation Specialist

Industries: Technology, Pharmaceuticals, Aerospace, Defense

Institutions and Companies: ISRO, DRDO, CSIR, Bell Labs, Intel Labs

Core Engineering Fields

Mechanical Engineering: Design Engineer, Production Engineer, Quality Control Engineer

Civil Engineering: Structural Engineer, Site Engineer, Project Manager

Electrical & Electronics Engineering: Power Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer

Companies: L&T, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Tata Motors, BHEL

Consulting

Roles: Management Consultant, IT Consultant, Strategy Consultant

Industries: Various industries, including IT, Manufacturing, Healthcare

Companies: McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, Bain & Company, Deloitte, Accenture

Entrepreneurship

Path: Start your own company or tech startup

Support: Many engineering institutions have incubation centres and entrepreneurship cells to support budding entrepreneurs

Examples: Numerous successful startups founded by IIT and NIT alumni

Higher Education & Specialization

Paths: Pursuing M.Tech, MS, MBA, or Ph.D. in India or abroad

Institutions: IITs, IIMs, top universities in the USA (like MIT, Stanford), UK, Germany, Canada

Public Sector & Government Jobs

Roles: Engineering Services, Public Sector Units (PSUs), Civil Services

Exams and Organizations: Indian Engineering Services (IES), GATE for PSUs like ONGC, GAIL, BHEL, NTPC, Indian Administrative Services (IAS)

Automotive & Manufacturing

Roles: Design Engineer, Production Engineer, Quality Control Engineer

Companies: Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Bosch

Telecommunications

Roles: Network Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer, RF Engineer

Companies: Airtel, Vodafone, Jio, Nokia, Ericsson

Academic & Teaching

Roles: Lecturer, Professor, Academic Researcher

Institutions: Universities, Engineering Colleges, Research Institutions

Defense & Aerospace

Roles: Aerospace Engineer, Defense Engineer, Research Scientist

Organisations: DRDO, HAL, ISRO, Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL)

Conclusion 

The JEE Main exam is a crucial national-level entrance test for engineering aspirants in India, determining admission to various undergraduate engineering programs. It assesses knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics through objective questions. 

Success in JEE Main requires thorough preparation, strong problem-solving skills, and effective time management, making it a vital step for aspiring engineers seeking admission to top institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key changes in JEE Main 2024 exam pattern?

There is no major change in the pattern of the exam. However, NTA has updated the JEE Mains syllabus for 2024, incorporating changes such as the complete removal of certain chapters and the elimination of specific sub-topics. These adjustments aim to synchronize the syllabus with the NCERT curriculum designed for students in Class 11 and Class 12.

2. How are marks distributed across subjects in JEE Main 2024?

In JEE Main 2024, for B.E./B.Tech paper, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics will each carry equal weightage. For B.Arch/B.Plan papers, Mathematics holds more weightage compared to Aptitude Test and Drawing Test.

3. Which chapters and topics are important for JEE Main 2024 preparation?

For Physics - Mechanics, Electrodynamics; Chemistry - Organic Chemistry; Mathematics - Calculus & Algebra are crucial. Also, focus on aptitude-related topics for B.Arch/B.Plan papers.

4. What is the marking scheme for JEE Main 2024?

For correct answers: +4 marks; Incorrect answers: -1 mark

5. How should one prepare effectively for JEE Main 2024?

Start by understanding the updated exam pattern thoroughly. Utilize official study materials and practice previous years' question papers extensively. Consider enrolling in reputable coaching programs or online courses to supplement your preparation efforts.

Other JEE Main resources you may be interested in: 

• Indispensable Books For JEE Main Preparation!
• JEE Mains AIR 3 Tops NEET 2021| Says She Attempted JEE As A Practice Test For NEET
• What is the reason behind the drop in JEE Main registrations (2021 Report)?