The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 is set to begin on January 21, 2026 . Students preparing for the exam can review important Physics topics for this first shift. This information comes from a detailed study of past JEE Main Physics papers from 2025 and 2024.
Physics has consistently been a moderate to difficult section in the JEE Main exam. In recent years, the Physics papers were known for being tough, with tricky and long questions. The 2024 Physics paper mostly tested formulas. The 2025 paper, especially in later shifts, had more conceptual and tricky questions.
Analysis of JEE Main 2025 and 2024 (Session 1) Physics sections shows a clear focus on certain areas. Exam officials placed strong emphasis on Modern Physics and Electromagnetism . Students aiming to score high marks quickly should focus on these frequently asked topics.
Important Physics Topics for JEE Main 2026 (January 21 Shift)
Based on past trends, the JEE Main Physics section usually has a mix of important conceptual topics and problems based on formulas. The question paper often covers Mechanics, Electrodynamics, and Modern Physics. Below is a list of important Physics topics for the January 21, 2026 shift, along with the expected number of questions for each.
| Topic | Expected Questions Per Shift |
| Electrostatics and Capacitancy | 2-3 |
| Modern Physics | 3-4 |
| Units, Dimensions and Errors, Basic Maths | 1-2 |
| Ray Optics | 1-2 |
| Magnetic Effect Of Current and Magnetism | 1-2 |
| Gravitation | 1-2 |
| Fluid Mechanics | 1-2 |
| Thermodynamics | 2-3 |
| Current Electricity | 1-2 |
| Work Energy Power | 1-2 |
Key Focus Areas in Physics
Certain sections of Physics carry more weight in the JEE Main exam. Understanding these can help students plan their study effectively.
- Electromagnetism: This broad area, including Electromagnetic Induction (EMI), Alternating Current (AC), and Magnetism, often makes up a large part of the Physics paper. It typically accounts for 25% to 30% of the total Physics questions.
- Modern Physics: Students can expect 2 to 3 direct questions from Modern Physics in each shift. This indicates its consistent importance.
- Numericals: Most numerical questions in the Physics section come from Mechanics and Thermodynamics .
Strategies for High Scores
To achieve a score of 80 or more in Physics, students should focus their preparation on these key areas. Candidates who are strong in formulas should give special attention to chapters like Mechanics and Thermodynamics , as these are often sources of numerical problems. Revising these formula-based chapters can help secure marks quickly.
A balanced approach, covering both conceptual topics from Modern Physics and Electromagnetism, along with formula-heavy topics like Mechanics and Thermodynamics, will be helpful. This strategy uses insights from how the exam has been structured in previous years.
