The JEE Main is India’s one of the most challenging and competitive exams. This exam serves as the gateway to premier engineering institutes. These include institutes like the IITs, NITs, and other respected institutions.
For many students, the preparation of the exam can feel overwhelming, especially when the time is limited. However, with a strategic approach and focused execution, it is possible to crack JEE Mains in a short time.
Exam Timings, Patterns, and Marking Scheme for JEE Main 2025
JEE Main is usually conducted in two sessions: January and April. The first session will be held from 22nd January to 31st January 2025. This exam is carried out in numerous shifts over several days to have enough room for all the candidates. Each shift will be for three hours. The time usually falls into two slots-
- Morning Time: 9 AM – 12 PM
- Evening Time: 3 PM – 6 PM
Exam Pattern
The examination is conducted in two papers-
- Paper 1 – For admission to B.E./B. Tech programs (conducted online).
- Paper 2 – For admission to B. Arch and B. Planning programs (partially online).
Paper 1 Highlights
Subject | Questions Type | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks |
Mathematics | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) & Numerical Value-Based Questions (NVQs) | 20 MCQs + 10 NVQs | 100 |
Physics | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) & Numerical Value-Based Questions (NVQs) | 20 MCQs + 10 NVQs | 100 |
Chemistry | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) & Numerical Value-Based Questions (NVQs) | 20 MCQs + 10 NVQs | 100 |
Total | 90 Questions | 300 Marks |
Marking Scheme for Paper 1
- Correct Answer: +4 Marks
- Incorrect Answer (MCQs only): -1
- Incorrect Answer (NVQs): No negative marking
- Unattempted Questions: No marks deducted
Paper 2 Highlights
Paper 2 is divided into two sections:
- Paper 2A: For B. Arch.
- Paper 2B: For B. Planning.
Paper 2A: B. Arch Highlights
Subject | Questions Type | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks |
Mathematics | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) & Numerical Value-Based | 20 MCQs + 10 NVQs | 100 |
Aptitude Test | MCQs | 50 | 200 |
Drawing Test | Questions on design and sketching | 2 | 100 |
Total | 82 | 400 |
● Paper 2B: B. Planning Highlights
Subject | Questions Type | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks |
Mathematics | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) & Numerical Value-Based | 20 MCQs + 10 NVQs | 100 |
Aptitude Test | MCQs | 50 | 200 |
Planning-Based Questions | MCQs | 25 | 100 |
Total | 105 | 400 |
Marking Scheme for Paper 2
- Correct Answer: +4
- Incorrect Answer (MCQs): -1
- Incorrect Answer (NVQs): No negative marking
- Unattempted Question: No marks deducted
How You Should Prepare for JEE Main in a Short Time
Time can be proven to be a daunting thing for preparing for JEE Main, but with a focused and structured approach, you can truly enhance your abilities to increase your chances of scoring good marks.
[1] Understand the Syllabus and Prioritize Topics
The syllabus for JEE Main is vast, but not all the topics carry the same weightage. The areas that have the highest marks are usually those that come most in exams. For example,
- Physics: Mechanics, Electricity & Magnetism, Thermodynamics, Optics.
- Chemistry: Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry (Mole Concept, Thermodynamics), Inorganic Chemistry (Periodic Table, Coordination Compounds).
- Mathematics: Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, Algebra (Probability, Matrices & Determinants).
[2] Plan a Feasible Study Plan
Divide your time sensibly over the topics. For short-term preparation:
- Dedicate at least 10-12 hours daily.
- Dedicate 2-3 hours to each subject and focus more on the weak points.
- Take time for mock tests and revision.
[3] Practice Previous Year Question Papers
JEE Main question papers from previous years are valuable. Practicing them will help you:
- Understand the pattern of the exam.
- Know what is frequently asked.
- Improve your time management.
[4] Practice Mock Tests Regularly
Enroll in an online mock test series to simulate real examination conditions. Analyse your performance after each test:
- Focus on your errors and rectify them.
- Record your improvement over time.
[5] Master Time Management
Time is a crucial asset during both preparation as well as the examination process. Practice solving questions under a time constraint. For instance,
- Practice for 1 hour on each subject during practice hours.
- Focus initially on accuracy over speed before shifting focus to both.
[6] Revise Steadily
Retain the concepts with revision. Tips to be followed:
- Spent the last 10-15 days only for revision.
- Use summary notes or flashcards for quick revision.
- Daily revise formulas, equations, and important diagrams.
[7] Conceptual clarity
Avoid rote learning. Only when you have clear concepts, then you will be able to solve complex problems. In numeric-based questions, drive the formulas so that you can understand the logic behind them.
[8] Stay Healthy and Positive
- Sleep properly (6-8 hours).
- Eat a balanced diet to keep yourself energized.
- Take small breaks between study sessions to avoid getting burnt out.
- Keep yourself positive and believe in your preparation.
Bonus Tips for Success
- Use a Smart Guessing Strategy: Avoid random guessing as this causes negative marking. Where you are not sure, eliminate wrong answers to get one correct in the process.
- Focus on the Strength: In the exam, first solve the question from the area where you are strongest. It makes you boost your confidence and save some time for you to solve complicated sections.
- Keep Your Admit Card and ID Ready: Ensure that you have all the necessary documents for the exam to avoid last-minute panic.
- Avoid New Topics in the Last Few Days: Instead of trying to learn something new, focus on revision.
- Regularly Check for Updates Regarding the Exam: Check for any updates regarding JEE Main 2025 on the official website of NTA.
To conclude
Cracking JEE Main in the shortest possible time is surely very challenging, but with good determination and strategies, it is achievable. Concentrate on the pattern of the exam, manage your time wisely, and practice consistently.
It may seem quite gruelling, but every effort you make takes you closer to your aims. Hence, do not get overwhelmed by the syllabus, and trust yourself. This is because, in the end, it will be your discipline and desire to succeed which will help you the most.
Frequently Asked Questions
[1] What’s the most effective way to get good marks in JEE Main?
Focus on answering previous years’ papers and regularly participate in mock examinations. Instead of just memorizing, you must make sure to understand the fundamental concepts. Develop brief summaries for quick revision and train yourself to manage time efficiently while doing practice tests. Remember to study your mistakes after each of the practice sessions.
[2] Can I prepare for JEE Main in less time?
Yes, with a lot of hard work and some smart planning. First, master high-weightage topics and create a strict study schedule. You must also pay attention to effective practice over quantity. Regular mock tests will help you to know your weak areas and thereby improve them quickly.
[3] How many hours should I study each day to prepare for JEE Main?
If you have covered the basics, try to study for 6-8 hours. If you are a beginner, then aim for 10-12 hours of studying. Split your learning into smaller parts with little pauses in between them. Keep in mind that regular and concentrated study is better than longer sessions without focusing on what’s being studied.
[4] How should I handle stress during JEE Main preparation?
Do pauses regularly and keep a good sleep routine. Speak to your friends or family when you feel too much pressure. Bear in mind that being relaxed makes studying more productive. You should balance your preparation with activities you enjoy.
[5] What are the common mistakes to avoid while preparing for JEE Main?
Don’t try to cover everything all at once. Don’t study new topics the day before the exam. Don’t skip mock tests or ignore your mistakes. Instead of focusing just on one subject, balance all three.