JEE Main Paper 1 is a computer-based test of 75 questions and 300 marks in 3 hours — 25 questions per subject in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, each split into 20 multiple-choice and 5 numerical-value questions. Marking is +4 / −1 / 0, and since the optional-questions structure was removed, all five numerical questions are compulsory and carry negative marking. The exam runs in two sessions a year and your better score counts.
Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech) #
| Mode | Computer-based |
| Duration | 3 hours (3h 20m for PwD candidates) |
| Questions | 75 |
| Total marks | 300 |
| Per subject | 20 MCQ + 5 numerical |
| Marking | +4 correct, −1 incorrect, 0 unattempted |
| Sessions | Two per year; best score counts |
| Languages | 13 |
Papers 2A and 2B #
| Paper 2A (B.Arch) | Paper 2B (B.Planning) | |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 25 questions | 25 questions |
| Aptitude | 50 questions | 50 questions |
| Drawing | 2 questions (77 marks) | — |
| Planning | — | 25 questions |
| Total marks | 400 | 400 |
| Duration | 3 hours | 3 hours |
The Drawing section in Paper 2A is pen-and-paper even though the rest is computer-based.
The numerical questions #
This is where candidates lose marks unnecessarily. Five per subject, no options to reverse-engineer, and negative marking now applies — previously they were optional and penalty-free. Two consequences: you cannot skip them as a block, and you cannot guess them.
- Two sessions, best score counts — not the average. Sitting only one session forfeits a free second attempt.
- Answers to numerical questions must be entered to the specified precision. A correct value in the wrong format scores zero.
- The on-screen calculator is basic. Practise on the NTA mock interface, not on paper.
- Equal 100-mark weight per subject means no subject can be written off.
Normalisation #
Because the exam runs across many shifts, raw marks are converted to percentiles within each shift, then merged. This is why your marks are not directly comparable with a friend's in a different shift.
JEE Main exam pattern — frequently asked questions
What is the JEE Main exam pattern?
Is there negative marking in JEE Main numerical questions?
How many attempts does JEE Main have in a year?
What is JEE Main Paper 2?
Why does JEE Main use percentile instead of marks?
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Disclaimer: The exam pattern follows the latest NTA information bulletin and changes between cycles. Verify for your exam year.
