JEE Main Previous Year Question Paper

JEE Main Question Paper With Solutions

JEE Main exam syllabus consists of three subjects – Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Solving previous years’ question papers and mock tests is very important for students preparing for this competitive examination. 

Aspiring JEE Main aspirants can access the JEE Main question papers and solutions in online formats on the Extramarks website. In addition, students can refer to question papers with answer keys and explanations for previous academic years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020.

Introduction to the Exam:

The JEE is an engineering entrance examination held in India to determine eligibility for admission to various engineering colleges. It has two different phases: the JEE Main and the JEE Advanced.

Based on a student’s JEE Main and JEE Advanced rank, the Joint Seat Allocation Authority conducts the joint admission process for 23 IIT colleges, 25 Indian Institute of Information Technology colleges, 31 National Institute of Technology campuses, and 19 other Government Funded Technical Institutes (GFTIs).

To get more information about JEE Main 2022, students can check out articles related to JEE Main exam date, JEE Main application form process, JEE Main eligibility criteria, etc., on the Extramarks website.

JEE Main Exam Syllabus

The JEE Main exam syllabus is based on 11th and 12th class subjects mapped to the NCERT textbooks. Students can also analyse important chapters and topics by referring to past JEE Main question papers.

Below are chapters and important topics covered in JEE Main –

  Physics Chemistry Mathematics
  • Heat & Thermodynamics
  • Ray Optics
  • Electromagnetic Waves
  • Semiconductors
  • Error & Instrument Analysis
  • Gravitation
  • Wave Optics
  • Photoelectric Effect
  • Oscillations
  • Electromagnetic Induction & Alternating Current
  • Rotation
  • Kinematics
  • Electrostatics
  • Current Electricity & Capacitors
  • Properties of Matter
  • Magnetic Effects of Current & Magnetism
  • Bohr’s Atomic Model
  • Waves & Sound
  • Atomic Structure
  • Gaseous & Liquid State
  • Electrochemistry
  • Chemical Kinetics
  • Nuclear & Surface Chemistry
  • Chemical Bonding
  • d-Block Elements
  • Coordination Compound
  • Alkyl Halides
  • Aromatic Compounds
  • Thermodynamics
  • p-Block Elements
  • General Organic Chemistry
  • Isomerism
  • Aldehydes and Ketones
  • Carboxylic Acids & Its Derivatives

 

  • 3-Dimensional Geometry
  • Vectors
  • Determinant & Matrices
  • Sequence & Series
  • Straight Line
  • Circle
  • Probability Distribution (Binomial + Mean & Variance)
  • Definite Integral & Area Under the Curve
  • Limits, Continuity & Differentiability
  • Functions
  • Application of Derivatives
  • Conic Sections
  • Complex Number
  • Quadratic Equation
  • Binomial Theorem & M. I.

JEE Main Question Paper Marking Scheme

Parameters JEE Main – 2022

BE/B.TECH

JEE Main – 2022

B. ARCH

JEE Main – 2022

B. Planning

Number of questions

Asked:

 

To be answered:

 

90 (30 questions from each subject)

 

 

75 (25 questions from each subject)

 

82 (Mathematics- 30; Aptitude- 50; Drawing- 2)

 

 

77 (Mathematics- 25; Aptitude- 50; Drawing- 2)

 

105 (Mathematics- 30; Aptitude- 50; Planning Based-25)

 

100  (Mathematics- 25; Aptitude- 50; Planning Based-25)

 

Marking scheme

 

For MCQs: +4 for each correct response; -1 for each incorrect answer; Unattempted questions will not be marked.

For Non- MCQs: +4 for each correct response, no negative marking for incorrect answers or un-attempted questions.

 

For MCQs: +4 for each correct response; -1 for each incorrect answer; Unattempted questions will not be marked.

For Non- MCQs: +4 for each correct response, no negative marking for incorrect answers or un-attempted questions

For Drawing Test: 2 questions of 100 marks

 

For MCQs: +4 for each correct response; -1 for each incorrect answer; Unattempted questions will not be marked.

For Non- MCQs: +4 for each correct response, no negative marking for incorrect answers or un-attempted questions.

 

Subject-wise marking scheme Physics – 100

Chemistry – 100

Mathematics – 100

Mathematics – 100

Aptitude test- 200

Drawing – 100

Mathematics – 100

Aptitude test – 200

Planning based – 100

JEE Main Question Papers Analysis

Here is a few past question paper analysis to help you get a better understanding of the JEE Main Question paper pattern:

JEE Main Question Paper Analysis – 2020

Some students found the Mathematics section of the JEE Main first shift paper for B. Arch to be tough. Students attending the JEE Main Exam 1 afternoon session on January 7 indicated moderate overall paper. Chemistry was the most straightforward section, with most questions coming from the organic section and a few numerical problems from the physical department. Compared to the Aptitude and Drawing portion, the mathematics questions on paper 2 were easy. The majority were from NCERT.

JEE Main Question Paper Analysis – 2019

After assessing the question, our experts concluded that the paper’s overall difficulty was moderate, with an evenly balanced marking scheme for subjects including Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. However, according to the students’ feedback, Physics was the hardest section to solve, followed by Mathematics and Chemistry.

JEE Main Question Paper Analysis – 2018

The Physics section was challenging of all the sections combined. Maths was moderate, and Chemistry was the easiest. More questions were taken from the 12th syllabus for Physics, whereas for Chemistry and Maths, more questions were based on the 11th syllabus. Overall, the JEE Mains Physics part was the most difficult, with more conceptual than calculative questions. The Chemistry section of JEE Main question papers 2018 was easy, and students did well in this subject. Compared to previous years’ exam papers, the problems in the Mathematics section were generally easier.

JEE Main Question Paper Analysis – 2017

The general difficulty of the JEE Main question paper for 2017 ranged from easy to moderate; however, it was easier than the previous year. There were 11 questions from the Physics syllabus for class 11 and 19 questions from the Physics syllabus for class 12. The questions were more formula and calculation based vs theoretical. The Chemistry section was moderately easy for students with a solid conceptual understanding and knew how to apply it. It was the quickest subject to solve because the problems were more theoretical than calculative. There were ten questions from the class 11th Mathematics syllabus and twenty questions from the class 12th Mathematics syllabus. Several students evaluated it as the most challenging section due to its length and application-based questions.

JEE Main Question Paper Analysis – 2016

The online mode of JEE Main question papers 2016 was held on April 9 and 10, 2016. Compared to the offline mode, the online mode was a lot easier.

The Physics section was the most difficult of the three, yet it was pretty easy compared to the offline mode of the JEE Main question paper 2016. The Chemistry part was the simplest, with numerous direct and memory-based questions. The Mathematics section was lengthy but straightforward. Although innumerable students pointed out that one question in the Maths section had no matching option.

Overall, the online version of JEE Main question paper 2016 was of intermediate complexity.

JEE Main Question Paper Analysis – 2015

There were 39 questions from the 11th-grade syllabus and 52 questions from the 12th-grade syllabus. Physics was the most challenging section; Chemistry’s difficulty level was easy to moderate with factual questions. And surprisingly, Mathematics was easy. In terms of difficulty, the paper was of medium difficulty level. 

JEE Main Question Paper Analysis – Subject-Wise Weightage of Topics

The distribution and importance of topics vary every year in JEE Main question papers. Therefore, our academic experts at Extramarks have analysed past papers from several years and have represented essential topics from which more questions are asked. 

Weightage of Topics in JEE Main Physics question paper

Topics Avg. No. of Questions  Relative Marks
Modern Physics 5 20
Current Electricity 3 12
Optics 3 12
Heat and Thermodynamics 3 12
Electrostatics 3 12
Magnetics 2 8
Unit, Dimension, and Vector 1 4
Gravitation 1 4
Waves 1 4
Work, Power, and Energy 1 4
Solids and Fluids 1 4
Rotation 1 4
Laws of Motion 1 4
Simple Harmonic Motion 1 4
Kinematics 1 4
Centre of Mass, Impulse, and Momentum 1 4
Electromagnetics Induction 1 4

Weightage of Topics in JEE Main Chemistry question paper

Organic Chemistry

Chapters Avg Question Count Topic Weightage (%)
Alkyl Halide, Alcohol & Ether (Reaction Mechanism) 1-3 4-12%
Grignard Reagent, Reduction, Oxidation & Hydrolysis 0-1 0-4%
Some basic Principles of Organic Chemistry 0-2 0-8%
Chemistry in everyday life 0-1 0-4%
Biomolecules 0-1 0-4%
Polymers 0-1 0-4%
Principles related to Practical Chemistry 0-1 0-4%
Hydrocarbon 2-3 8-12%
Carboxylic Acid and its Derivatives 0-1 0-4%
Aromatic Compounds 0-1 0-4%

Inorganic Chemistry

Chapters Avg Question Count Topic Weightage (%)
Coordination Compounds 2-3 8-12%
Metallurgy 0-1 0-4%
S-Block 0-1 0-4%
P-Block 0-1 0-4%
Environmental Chemistry 0-1 0-4%
Classification of Elements 1-2 4-8%
D-Block & F-Block elements 0-1 0-4%

Physical Chemistry

Topics / Chapters Avg Question Count Topic Weightage (%)
Equilibrium 1-2 4-8%
States of Matter 1 4%
Gaseous State 0-1 0-4%
Chemical Thermodynamics 0-1 0-4%
Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure 1-3 4-12%
Chemical Kinetics 0-1 0-4%
Atomic Structure & Nuclear Chemistry 0-2 0-8%
Surface Chemistry 0-1 0-4%
Some Basic Concepts in Chemistry 1-2 4-8%
Solid State 0-1 0-4%
Solutions & Colligative Properties 0-1 0-4%
Redox Reactions and Electrochemistry 0-1 0-4%
Total 25 Questions 100%

Weightage of Topics in JEE Main Mathematics question paper

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

Class-wise Question Distribution

Subject Questions from 11th Questions from 12th Total Questions Total Marks
Mathematics 16 14 30 100
Physics 13 17 30 100
Chemistry 10 20 30 100
Grand Total 39 51 90 300

Thus, students should carefully go through the 11th and 12th class curriculum. In addition, they should follow the exam pattern carefully to prepare a successful study plan which helps them perform well and achieve the best results. 

Some Good Books for JEE Main Preparation

Choosing the best reference books is a critical part of any exam preparation. While NCERT books are primarily used for clearing the basic ideas, the JEE Main exams test candidates for their in-depth understanding and knowledge of each topic. Hence extra reference books are recommended for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics preparation. The table below enlists such important books one should refer to while preparing for JEE Main Examination:

Physics Chemistry Mathematics
  • Concepts of physics (Vol. 1 and 2) by H.C Verma
  • Fundamentals of Physics by Halliday, Resnick & Walker
  • Understanding Physics by D C Pandey (Arihant Publications)
  • Problems in General Physics by I.E Irodov
  • Understanding physics by Freedman and Young
  • Problems in physics by SS Krotov
  • Problems and solution of physics by Shashi Bhushan Tiwari
  • NCERT Textbooks
  • Modern Approach to Chemical Calculations by R.C. Mukherjee
  • Organic Chemistry by O P Tandon
  • Concept of Physical Chemistry by P Bahadur
  • Concise Inorganic Chemistry by J D Lee
  • Physical Chemistry by P.W. Atkins
  • Organic Chemistry by Morrison & Boyd
  • Objective Mathematics by R D Sharma
  • Plane Trigonometry by S L Loney
  • The Elements of Coordinate Geometry by S L Loney
  • Algebra by Dr S K Goyal Arihant Publications
  • Play with Graphs by Amit M Agarwal
  • Differential Calculus by Amit M Agarwal
  • Integral Calculus by Amit M Agarwal
  • Complete Mathematics for JEE Main TMH

JEE Main Question Paper Solving & Exam Preparation Tips

Below are a few general best practices advised by experts for achieving high scores in JEE Main question  papers:

  • Problem-solving skills are important for cracking the JEE main question paper as they help you solve more problems in less time. When you practise logic puzzles or games like Sudoku, your problem-solving skills improve automatically. When you play chess and mathematics puzzles, you will conceive several alternate problem-solving approaches. As a result, you’ll be less likely to run out of problem-solving strategies for the JEE exam.
  • In the JEE Main question paper, you do not need to complete all the questions with specific methods. Instead, for some problems, attempt backtracking techniques with the given answers. This backtracking method saves time because it eliminates the need to compute all the steps to arrive at the correct result.
  • Using a stopwatch to record the time taken to solve a problem during JEE main question papers will be highly beneficial to JEE aspirants. It will assist you in reaching your maximum problem-solving speed and attempting the maximum number of questions possible on the JEE exam day.
  • Learning the formulae and theorems from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics is the most important thing you can do. You can devote more time to calculate  the answer when you spend the least time digging for the proper formula to solve an issue.
  • Before you solve a question, try to create mind maps with the data and values. Mind maps will assist you in visualising various problem-solving strategies, reducing the time spent on the trial-and-error method.
  • It is recommended that candidates prepare and rely on JEE Main revision notes for all subjects to speed up their revision process.

JEE Main Physics Preparation Tips

Physics is all about logic and concepts. The subject can become more difficult, especially when the questions become more conceptual. It is a section that many JEE Main aspirants hate, and most of them quit physics very quickly. For the same reason, knowing the difficulty level and weightage of various topics is critical for Physics.

JEE Main Chemistry Preparation tips

Many students love chemistry because it is comparatively easy and helps them score good marks. Physical chemistry, Organic, and Inorganic are the three segments of chemistry.

Chemistry necessitates a combination of analytical and memory abilities. Physical chemistry questions are fully analytical, inorganic chemistry questions need memorisation, and organic chemistry questions are sometimes mixed.

JEE Main Mathematics preparation tips

Because of many topics, JEE Main Mathematics is regarded to have a vast syllabus. Furthermore, the Mathematics syllabus for JEE Main, Advanced, and Board exams is slightly different. Therefore, managing the subject becomes incredibly difficult for aspirants. To overcome this obstacle, applicants must think strategically and concentrate on the topics with the highest weightage. 

Guidelines for JEE Main Exam Day:

  • Students should visit the exam centre a day before the JEE Main exam date to familiarise themselves with the location. Arriving an hour early at the exam centre will help you avoid issues.
  • A physical copy of their JEE Main admit card and a valid photo ID are required.
  • Avoid taking any electronic devices, jewellery, watches, and similar items as these are prohibited in the exam hall.

Do’s and Don’ts for JEE Main Exam:

Do’s 

  • Start by answering the more straightforward and medium problems. The candidate’s confidence will boost, and they will be able to improve their JEE Main score.
  • Double-check everything before you mark the OMR document.
  • Take a sufficient number of Mock Online JEE exams from a reputable source if you have registered for JEE in an online format.

Don’ts

  • Don’t worry if you find the paper challenging; your overall performance matters. As a result, put your most analytical mind to work; it will help you progress.
  • Don’t start with a question you don’t know the answer to.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How can I access last year’s JEE Main question paper with answers?

The online version of the JEE Main question paper is available for free on the Extramarks website. Refer to links shared in the above section. The solutions are designed for easy and quick understanding of concepts for students. 

The question papers are a helpful study tool that will assist students in improving their problem-solving skills as well as understanding the JEE Main test pattern and format. Candidates can also obtain articles having JEE Main exam papers and solutions from the National Testing Agency (NTA).

2. Who can give the JEE Main exam?

The JEE main eligibility criteria say that there is no age limit for sitting for the JEE Main 2022 exam. Any candidate who has completed or will complete the 12th grade in 2020, 2021, or 2022 is eligible to take the entrance exam.

3. Is NCERT enough for JEE mains?

NCERT books cover all the topics in great depth so that students can understand them and perform well in the exam. Experts say that studying NCERT is sufficient to score decent marks in the  JEE Main exam. However, it is advised to refer to a few other subject-wise books to help candidates prepare well on each topic. A lot of these additional reference books have many questions that will help candidates thoroughly practice each topic. 

4. Will JEE 2022 have four attempts?

According to the National Testing Agency (NTA), the JEE Main exam 2022 will be held solely in April and May this year. This means that aspirants taking JEE Main 2022 will only be given two chances instead of four chances that were available to candidates in the previous year.

5. What is the language/medium of JEE Main question papers?

The JEE Main question paper on the base level will predominantly be held in Hindi and English. But additionally, a few other languages have also been included, such as – Assamese, Gujarati, Kannada, Bengali, Marathi, Malayalam, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.

6. Is JEE Mains Physics easy?

The difficulty level of JEE Main Physics is moderate to tough to difficult. Physics often emerged as the toughest section in the past few years’ JEE main question papers. Although it is not easy, it can be high scoring. So, if the candidate is well prepared, there are high chances they might crack the Physics section with good grades.

7. What is the difference between the sample paper and the previous year's JEE Main question papers?

The sample paper will give you an idea of how the board test paper would seem. It contains many probable questions for the JEE Main question paper. Sample papers are like a simulation of the JEE Main real exam.

Whereas previous year JEE Main question papers are question papers prepared by the official authority for JEE exams conducted in previous years.

8. Is there any difference in the syllabus for JEE Main and JEE Advanced?

Yes, there is a difference in the syllabus between JEE Main and JEE Advanced. Below is a summary of a few of the topics included or excluded from JEE Advanced.

Subject JEE Advanced Syllabus

Topics excluded from JEE Main

JEE Advanced Syllabus

New topics included

Mathematics Mathematical Induction, Statistics, Sets, Mathematical reasoning Harmonic Progressions
Physics Magnetism and Matter, Semiconductors and Communication systems, Bulk modulus and modulus of rigidity, Diffraction, and Polarisation Bohr’s Model
Chemistry Hydrogen, Environmental Chemistry, F Block elements, and Chemistry in everyday life Normality and equivalent weight