Jee Main Maths Question Paper

JEE Main Maths Question Paper

Mathematics is an important subject to be cleared for many competitive exams, including JEE Main entrance test. Preparing for Mathematics requires a good understanding of Mathematics Concepts, memorising all formulae , logical thinking, regular practise and revision. 

All experts advise JEE Main aspiring candidates to solve numerous past years’ question papers. These question papers sample papers will help candidates get a fair understanding of the exam pattern, chapter-wise question weightage, etc. Several sets of JEE Main Maths question papers with solutions are listed with their article links in this article below. Access these resources for free and enhance your exam preparation.

Introduction to the Exam

JEE Main is a test for engineering students interested in NITs, IIITs, and other CFTI engineering programs. It serves as a prerequisite for the JEE Advanced, held for admission to all IITs. Since 2019, the Government has delegated the responsibility for conducting the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main to the National Testing Agency (NTA). JEE Paper 1 is for admission to UG B.E. / B. Tech program, while Paper 2 is for admission to B. Arch and B. Planning program.

JEE Main Mathematics Exam

Mathematics is the most challenging section of the JEE Main exam preparation. Almost every year, the questions in the Mathematics section of the paper are more complex than the other sections. This is a very time-consuming section too.

But one can’t ignore the fact that Mathematics is the favourite subject for many JEE aspirants. Mathematics may be tricky on paper, but preparation-wise it is comparatively easier than other subjects. And with solid practice and good fundamentals, one can score excellent marks in Mathematics. Apart from this syllabus also refer to past years’ set of JEE Main Maths question papers and its solution sets.

JEE Main Mathematics Syllabus

Sr.  No Chapter Name
1 Sets, Relations, and Functions
2 Complex Numbers and Quadratic Equations
3 Matrices and Determinants
4 Permutations And Combinations
5 Mathematical Induction
6 Binomial Theorem and its Simple Applications
7 Sequences and Series
8 Limit, Continuity, and Differentiability
9 Integral Calculus
10 Differential Equations
11 Coordinate  Geometry
12 Three-Dimensional Geometry
13 Vector Algebra
14 Statistics and Probability
15 Trigonometry
16 Mathematical Reasoning

Crucial topics for JEE Main Maths question paper preparation

  • Calculus – Calculus is one of the essential topics in mathematics. Differential and integral calculus are the two main areas of study. Limits and continuity, application of derivatives, and differentiation are essential concepts to learn in differential calculus. The indefinite integral, definite integral, and the area under curves are all essential concepts in integral calculus and can come in the JEE Main Maths question paper.
  • Coordinate Geometry – Coordinate geometry studies shapes and curves on a graph, and it’s pretty simple to score. Straight lines, hyperbola, parabola, ellipse, and circle are important topics covered in coordinate geometry.
  • Trigonometry – Since the 10th grade, trigonometry has been regarded as one of the most important subjects. Students must understand the fundamentals of trigonometry. The JEE Main and other tests test trigonometric ratios and trigonometric functions. These are both high-scoring and moderately difficult.
  • Algebra – Algebra questions are usually asked in the JEE Main Mathematics question paper. This is the vastest area of mathematics. Algebra questions can range from simple to complex. How long a problem can take relies on your ability to interpret it. Some significant subjects addressed are sets, relations and functions, matrices and determinants, permutations and combinations, complex numbers, probability, differential equations, quadratic equations and expressions, progressions and series, and the binomial Theorem in algebra.

JEE Main Exam Pattern – Mathematics Section

The JEE Main maths question paper is of 3 hours duration. 2 types of questions are asked – Multiple Choice Questions and numerical value-based questions. The Mathematics section consists of 100 marks – 20 compulsory MCQs and 10 choice-based numerical questions, out of which 5 have to be answered. Therefore, 25 questions have to be answered, all in all.

Under MCQs, for each correct answer, four marks will be awarded, and for each incorrect answer, there will be a negative marking of one mark.

Under numerical value questions, there will be no negative marking, and candidates will receive four marks for each correct answer.

JEE Main Maths Question Paper Analysis

Here are the past few years’ JEE Main Maths question paper analysis for your reference –

JEE Main Maths question paper analysis – 2021

According to the experts, the JEE Main Maths question paper was time-consuming but straightforward due to extensive calculations.

Five questions were asked from Coordinate Geometry, seven from calculus, four from Vectors and 3D, and at least five from the Algebra chapter.

JEE Main Mathematics question paper analysis – 2020

The paper was much easier than the previous session. In all three papers, the numerical section was lengthy and concept-based. Students should expect a cut-off score ranging from 85 to 90.

For 2020, the questions in JEE Main Mathematics question paper were mainly from class 11 topics, and the paper followed the NCERT pattern. The numerical section was lengthy, whereas the rest of the questions were fact-based. Maths was the most challenging subject in terms of difficulty, with many problems from the numerical section.

JEE Main Mathematics question paper analysis – 2019

Surprisingly, the difficulty level of the questions in the Mathematics section for 2019 JEE Main Maths question paper was moderate. Candidates who took the exam said the questions required a few calculations and that it took them a little longer to solve and attempt all of the questions. There were 9 algebra questions, 8 coordinate geometry questions, 9 calculus questions, and 4 based on probability, mathematical Reasoning, and statistics. Overall, 13 questions were easy, 13 moderate, and four were challenging.

JEE Main Mathematics question paper analysis – 2018

According to the difficulty-level analysis – there were 13 easy questions, 14 moderate questions, and 3 difficult questions. A significant chunk of questions (around 20) was asked from the class 11th syllabus, and 10 questions were asked from the 12th syllabus. Overall, the Maths section for the 2018 JEE Main Maths question paper was easy compared to last year’s papers. Most marks were allotted to Algebra, followed by Calculus and Conics.

JEE Main Mathematics question paper analysis – 2017

There were ten questions from the class 11th Mathematics syllabus and twenty questions from the class 12th Mathematics syllabus. Several students evaluated Maths from the 2017 JEE Main Maths question paper as the most challenging section due to its lengthiness and application-based questions.

Expert teachers at the Extramarks team have analysed the last 10 years’ JEE Main Maths question papers to understand important chapters. The below table indicates typical chapter-wise mark allocation. 

Chapter name Avg. Marks Allotted 
Matrices and Determinants 8
Vector Algebra 8
Three-Dimensional Geometry 8
Complex Numbers and Quadratic Equations 8
Limits, continuity, and differentiability 12
Integral calculus 12
Coordinate Geometry 20
Trigonometry 4
Statics and Dynamics 4
Statistics and Probability 8
Sets, Relation, and Function 2
Sequences and Series 2
Binomial Theorem and its Application 2
Differential Equations 2
Differential calculus 2
Permutations and Combinations 2
Mathematical Reasoning 2

Advantages of Solving JEE Main MaathematicsQuestion Papers

  • Candidates can improve their understanding of the JEE Main Mathematicsexam pattern and the grading scheme by practising more JEE Main Maths question papers.
  • Candidates would have a good grasp of the JEE Main Mathematicssyllabus weightage if they regularly solve JEE Main Mathematicsquestion papers. Candidates will be able to see which topics from the JEE Main syllabus frequently appear in the exam and have a high vs. low weightage.
  • Candidates can assess their degree of preparation and improve their revision skills with each solved JEE Main Maths question paper. Candidates can learn their strong and weak areas by regularly practising JEE Main Mathematicsquestion papers, and they can strategisetheir JEE Main preparation accordingly.
  • Time management is one of the most critical components in succeeding in the exam. With enough practise, any student can master the art of managing time during the actual test. Another crucial factor is to increase the speed with which questions are answered.

JEE Main Preparation Tips for JEE Main Maths question paper

  • A formula can be learned through practice. To improve your grades, you must know all the essential formulae in Mathematics.
  • When it comes to maths problems, the graphical approach is beneficial. Try using it and prepare JEE main revision notes for effective revision during exam preparation.
  • In some cases, where reverse calculations are time-consuming, the hit-and-try strategy works. It should be used with care.
  • Strengthen your understanding of function theory, as it is the foundation for practically every topic in 11th and 12th grade.
  • Spend the first 5 to 10 minutes searching through all 25 questions for simple questions. 40% to 50% of the JEE Main Mathematics questions are easy to answer. Around 20% to 30% of the tasks are moderate, and about 10% to 20% are challenging.

Best Books for JEE Main Maths Preparation

The JEE Main Mathematics necessitates thorough preparation. The following table lists some of the best JEE Main books, along with their authors’ names, that students can use to prepare for the JEE Main Maths question paper –

Book Author/Publisher
IIT Mathematics M.L. Khanna
Differential Calculus Das Gupta
Class XI and XII Mathematics R.D. Sharma
Mathematics for JEE Main Cengage (Publisher)
Integral Calculus for IIT-JEE Amit Agarwal
Calculus and Analytic Geometry Thomas and Finney
Problems in Calculus of One Variable I. A. Maron
Higher Algebra Hall and Knight

 Do’s and Don’ts for JEE Main Exam

Do’s –

  • Start by answering the more straightforward and medium questions on the JEE Main Maths question paper. This will boost the candidate’s confidence and aid them in improving their JEE Main score.
  • Before you mark the OMR sheet, double-check everything. Also, read the JEE Main Maths question paper thoroughly to make a sound decision about what to attempt and what questions to leave in section B.
  • If you have registered for JEE in an online format, take a sufficient number of Mock Online JEE exams from a trusted source.

Dont’s –

  • Don’t worry if you find the paper difficult; it’s the relative performance that matters. Therefore, put your best analytical mind to work; it will propel you forward.
  • Don’t begin with a question you don’t know.

Guidelines for Exam Day

  • Candidates must bring their JEE main admit card, JEE main application form, and a valid ID. You will not be allowed to take the test if you fail to do so.
  • One day before the JEE main exam date, go to the exam centre and arrive in the hall 60 minutes before the test starts. This will help you prevent complications at the last minute.
  • Bring an original copy of a government-issued photo identity evidence (PAN Card, Driver’s Licence, Voter ID, Passport, Aadhar Card with Photograph, E-Aadhar, Ration Card, Aadhar Enrolment Number with Photo).
  • Carry a PwD Certificate from a reputable source (if applicable).

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What sort of problems are asked in JEE Mathematics question paper?

The JEE Main Mathematics question paper has 2 types of questions: objective and numerical value. There are 20 compulsory objective-type questions of equal weightage and 10 choice-based numerical value questions from which only 5 are to be answered in the JEE Main Mathematics question paper. The MCQ format tests the aptitude and knowledge-base of the student.

2. How can I get full marks in JEE Main Maths question paper?

It is not tough to achieve a score of 90+ out of 120 in the JEE Mains Maths question paper. For the exams, all that is required is concentration and hard work. It’s all about practice when it comes to maths. Candidates should practise as many questions as possible to get a good JEE main result. The more students practise the questions, the better their problem-solving abilities become. The JEE Main Maths question paper is the most difficult of the three sections of JEE Mains: Physics, Chemistry, and Maths. It contains not only topics but also many practise questions to answer.

  • Candidates should concentrate on the Mathematical Chapters that carry the maximum weightage in the JEE Main Mathematics question paper. Some chapters are pretty crucial from the standpoint of the examination.
  • Suppose students want to achieve a grade of 90 or higher in their JEE Main Maths question paper. One should think logically and answer questions because the exam is three hours long. As a result, each section of the exam should be given equal time. Mathematics section is of 60 minutes duration. Candidates will earn more marks in JEE Main Maths question paper if their logical thinking is improved.
  • Some chapters are particularly essential in the context of the JEE Mains Maths question paper. Integrals, 3-D Geometry, Probability, Conic Section, Vector Algebra, Functions, Limits, Continuity & Derivability, Matrices & Derivatives, Probability, Permutation, and Combination are among the chapters covered. In examinations, both Class 12 and Class 11 have the same weightage of marks.

3. Is Mathematics in JEE Main tough?

The Mathematics section for JEE Main is medium to high difficulty level. Still, you can have an excellent command of it if you have solved numerous JEE Main Maths question papers and practise papers that had a strong focus on your school textbooks, particularly the NCERT mathematics textbook. Maths is the Rank Booster. Therefore, one should plan ahead of time and answer as many questions as possible. Practice makes perfect when it comes to Maths.

The IIT JEE Maths Syllabus contains an excellent balance of difficult and easy topics. Permutations and combinations, quadratic equations, trigonometry, probability, straight lines and circles in coordinate geometry, and differential calculus are simple topics to understand in the exam. The only method to pass the JEE exam is to put in a lot of effort and practise.

4. What is the best way to study JEE Main Mathematics?

Most important element is to include solving past papers in your daily study plan. Browse through the JEE Main Maths question paper from the years 2015 to 2021 and solve all of them.

  • According to experts, studying a subject with just one book may not be sufficient. Therefore, it is advisable to read books other than NCERT, such as RD Sharma and Arihant. Every book will give students questions in various formats, allowing them to see how one question may be asked in various ways while still yielding the same answer.
  • It is necessary to write down all the equations and theories used in each chapter of Mathematics. It’s always a good idea to jot down all of the equations and theories in a separate book that you can refer to while working on different problems.
  • If you’re studying Mathematics, you can concentrate on the more important topics that carry more weightage. It is, however, recommended that you study and prepare for those chapters that you find more difficult to understand.

5. How can I access past years' JEE Main Mathematics question papers with answers?

Refer to the links in the preceding section. The answer keys and solutions offered for JEE Main Maths question papers will help students grasp topics quickly and easily. Furthermore, students can use previous exam question papers to strengthen their problem-solving skills and learn more about test patterns and formats by tackling previous JEE Main Maths question papers.