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JEE Main Physics Syllabus 2026 has been released by NTA on the official website jeemain.nta.nic.in. The Physics syllabus covers topics from Class 11 and Class 12 NCERT textbooks. Physics is considered the most challenging section in JEE Main as it requires strong conceptual understanding and numerical problem-solving skills. NTA has not made any major changes in the JEE Main Physics Syllabus for 2026.
Table of Contents
What is JEE Main Physics Syllabus Exam Pattern?
The JEE Main Physics section contains 25 questions carrying a total of 100 marks. The exam pattern includes 20 MCQs worth 80 marks and 5 Numerical Value Questions worth 20 marks. Each correct answer awards +4 marks while each incorrect answer deducts -1 mark. The negative marking applies to both MCQs and Numerical Value Questions from 2025 onwards.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Questions | 25 |
| MCQ Questions | 20 (80 marks) |
| Numerical Value Questions | 5 (20 marks) |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Marking Scheme | +4 for correct, -1 for incorrect |
| Time Allotted | Part of 3-hour exam |
JEE Main Physics Syllabus: Section-wise
The JEE Main Physics syllabus is divided into two sections. Section A covers theory with approximately 80% weightage. Section B covers experimental skills and practical applications with approximately 20% weightage. The total syllabus contains 19 main units organized based on NCERT textbooks.
JEE Main Physics Syllabus 2026 - Class 11 Topics
Class 11 Physics contributes approximately 40-49% of the Physics paper. Mechanics forms the foundation for Class 11 topics. Understanding these concepts is essential before moving to Class 12 topics.
| Unit | Topics Covered | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Physics and Measurement | Units and measurements, SI units, dimensional analysis, errors in measurement, significant figures | 4% |
| Kinematics | Motion in straight line, projectile motion, relative velocity, position-time graphs, equations of motion | 4-8% |
| Laws of Motion | Newton's laws, inertia, momentum, impulse, friction, circular motion dynamics | 4-8% |
| Work, Energy and Power | Work-energy theorem, kinetic and potential energy, power, collisions, conservation of energy | 4% |
| Rotational Motion | Centre of mass, moment of inertia, torque, angular momentum, rolling motion | 4-8% |
| Gravitation | Kepler's laws, gravitational potential energy, escape velocity, orbital velocity, satellites | 4% |
| Properties of Solids and Liquids | Elasticity, stress-strain, Hooke's law, viscosity, surface tension, fluid mechanics | 4% |
| Thermodynamics | Laws of thermodynamics, heat engines, entropy, Carnot cycle, specific heat | 4-8% |
| Kinetic Theory of Gases | Ideal gas equation, degrees of freedom, mean free path, RMS velocity | 4% |
| Oscillations and Waves | SHM, pendulum, spring-mass system, wave motion, sound waves, Doppler effect | 4-8% |
JEE Main Physics Syllabus 2026 - Class 12 Topics
Class 12 Physics contributes approximately 51-60% of the Physics paper. Electromagnetism and Modern Physics dominate the Class 12 portion. These topics carry the highest weightage in JEE Main.
| Unit | Topics Covered | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Electrostatics | Coulomb's law, electric field, Gauss's theorem, electric potential, capacitors, dielectrics | 8-12% |
| Current Electricity | Ohm's law, Kirchhoff's laws, Wheatstone bridge, meter bridge, potentiometer, electrical cells | 8-12% |
| Magnetic Effects of Current | Biot-Savart law, Ampere's law, force on moving charge, galvanometer, solenoid | 4-8% |
| Electromagnetic Induction | Faraday's law, Lenz's law, self and mutual inductance, AC circuits, transformers | 4-8% |
| Electromagnetic Waves | EM spectrum, properties of EM waves, displacement current | 2-4% |
| Optics | Reflection, refraction, lenses, mirrors, optical instruments, interference, diffraction, polarization | 8-12% |
| Dual Nature of Matter | Photoelectric effect, de Broglie wavelength, Davisson-Germer experiment | 4% |
| Atoms and Nuclei | Bohr model, hydrogen spectrum, radioactivity, nuclear reactions, binding energy | 4-8% |
| Electronic Devices | Semiconductors, p-n junction diode, transistor, logic gates | 4% |
What is the Weightage for JEE Main Physics Syllabus 2026?
The weightage distribution across different topics is based on previous year analysis. Mechanics, Electromagnetism, and Modern Physics together contribute more than 75% of the Physics paper. Understanding this distribution helps prioritize preparation effectively.
| Topic Category | Expected Questions | Weightage | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanics | 7-8 | 28-32% | 28-32 |
| Electromagnetism | 6-7 | 24-28% | 24-28 |
| Modern Physics | 4-5 | 16-20% | 16-20 |
| Optics | 2-3 | 8-12% | 8-12 |
| Thermodynamics | 2-3 | 8-12% | 8-12 |
| Waves and Oscillations | 1-2 | 4-8% | 4-8 |
High-Weightage Chapters for JEE Main Physics 2026 (Based on Last 5 Years' Trends)
Analysis of JEE Main papers from 2021 to 2025 reveals consistent patterns in question distribution. The first 9 chapters hold approximately 50% of the questions. Focusing on these chapters first maximizes scoring potential.
| Chapter | Category | Expected Questions | Weightage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current Electricity | Electromagnetism | 3-4 | 12-16% |
| Electrostatics | Electromagnetism | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Modern Physics (Atoms, Nuclei, Dual Nature) | Modern Physics | 3-4 | 12-16% |
| Ray Optics and Wave Optics | Optics | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Laws of Motion | Mechanics | 2-3 | 8-12% |
| Rotational Motion | Mechanics | 1-2 | 4-8% |
| Thermodynamics | Heat | 2 | 8% |
| Electromagnetic Induction | Electromagnetism | 2 | 8% |
| Units and Dimensions | General | 1 | 4% |
JEE Main Physics Syllabus Section-Wise Trends Analysis
The section-wise distribution has remained stable over the past five years. Mechanics is the most prominent subject followed by Electromagnetism and Modern Physics. Class 12 topics appear more frequently overall.
| Year | Mechanics | Electromagnetism | Modern Physics | Others |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 8 questions | 7 questions | 4 questions | 6 questions |
| 2022 | 7 questions | 7 questions | 5 questions | 6 questions |
| 2023 | 8 questions | 6 questions | 5 questions | 6 questions |
| 2024 | 7 questions | 7 questions | 5 questions | 6 questions |
| 2025 | 8 questions | 6 questions | 5 questions | 6 questions |
Is Physics the Most Difficult Subject in JEE Mains 2026?
Physics is often perceived as the most challenging subject in JEE Main. Several factors contribute to this perception. The section requires strong conceptual understanding beyond memorization. Questions are application-based and test problem-solving skills. Numerical calculations can be time-consuming. However, Physics becomes manageable with proper preparation strategy.
Students who build strong foundations in Mechanics and Electromagnetism find the subject scoring. Almost 65% of the JEE Main Physics Syllabus contains Mechanics and Electric Charges topics. NCERT concepts combined with numerical practice from standard books ensure good scores. Toppers recommend spending equal time on Physics as on other subjects.
What are some easy scoring chapters in Physics for the JEE Mains?
Several chapters offer high marks with relatively predictable question patterns. These chapters require formula application rather than complex derivations.
| Easy Scoring Chapter | Why It's Easy | Expected Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Units and Dimensions | Formula-based, simple calculations | 1 |
| Modern Physics | Direct formula application, predictable patterns | 3-4 |
| Semiconductors | Theory-based, limited numerical | 1 |
| Ray Optics | Standard formulas, repeated question types | 2 |
| Current Electricity | Circuit analysis, Kirchhoff's laws application | 3-4 |
| Electromagnetic Waves | Theory-based, direct from NCERT | 1 |
JEE Main Physics Marks vs Percentile (2021–2025)
Understanding marks vs percentile correlation helps set realistic targets. Physics percentile indicates performance relative to other candidates. Higher marks lead to better percentile and rank.
| Physics Marks (out of 100) | Expected Percentile Range |
|---|---|
| 80+ | 99-100 |
| 70-79 | 97-99 |
| 60-69 | 93-97 |
| 50-59 | 85-93 |
| 40-49 | 75-85 |
| 30-39 | 60-75 |
| 20-29 | 45-60 |
JEE Main Physics Books
Selecting the right books is crucial for effective preparation. NCERT textbooks form the foundation for theory. Reference books provide additional practice and advanced problem-solving techniques.
| Book Name | Author | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| NCERT Physics Class 11 and 12 | NCERT | Foundation, concepts, theory (mandatory) |
| Concepts of Physics Vol 1 and 2 | H.C. Verma | Conceptual clarity, theory, subjective problems |
| Understanding Physics Series | D.C. Pandey | Objective problems, extensive practice |
| Problems in General Physics | I.E. Irodov | Advanced problems (for top rankers) |
| Fundamentals of Physics | Halliday, Resnick, Walker | Theory, real-world examples |
| Physics Galaxy | Ashish Arora | Comprehensive practice, all levels |
JEE Main Physics Preparation Plan
A structured preparation plan ensures comprehensive coverage. Physics requires consistent practice rather than last-minute cramming. The 60:30:10 rule applies to time allocation effectively.
Monthly Preparation Strategy
| Phase | Duration | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation Phase | Months 1-3 | Complete NCERT, build concepts, solve HC Verma examples |
| Practice Phase | Months 4-6 | DC Pandey problems, topic-wise questions, formula sheets |
| Revision Phase | Months 7-8 | PYQs, mock tests, error analysis, weak area improvement |
| Final Phase | Last 30 days | Rapid revision, high-weightage chapters, formula practice |
Weekly Time Allocation
| Activity | Days Per Week | Daily Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanics Topics | 2 days | 2-3 hours |
| Electromagnetism Topics | 2 days | 2-3 hours |
| Modern Physics and Optics | 2 days | 2 hours |
| Numerical Practice | Daily | 1 hour |
I'm a dropper for the JEE Main, and my Physics is very weak. How much Physics syllabus should I cover?
Droppers should cover 100% of the Physics syllabus. Physics has a 60-70% NCERT reliance for theory while numericals require additional practice. A strategic approach maximizes scoring potential even with limited time.
Start with NCERT textbooks for conceptual clarity. Then move to HC Verma for deeper understanding and problem-solving techniques. HC Verma explains concepts in simple terms and builds strong foundations. After completing HC Verma, practice objective questions from DC Pandey for exam-pattern familiarity.
Focus on high-weightage chapters first. Current Electricity, Electrostatics, Modern Physics, and Optics together contribute 40-50% of the paper. Master these chapters thoroughly before moving to others. Solve 40-60 mixed Physics questions daily from standard books.
Create a formula sheet for each chapter. Revise formulas daily during the final months. Physics requires consistent practice rather than extensive reading. Aim for 60+ marks in Physics to achieve 95+ percentile.
JEE Main Physics Syllabus Deleted Topics 2026
NTA has removed certain topics from the Physics syllabus to reduce overlap and content load. Students should focus only on the updated syllabus for effective preparation.
| Deleted Topic | Original Chapter |
|---|---|
| Scalars and Vectors (basics) | Kinematics |
| Vector Addition and Subtraction | Kinematics |
| Communication Systems (detailed) | Electronic Devices |
| Some derivations in Gravitation | Gravitation |
Frequently Asked Questions
- NCERT is essential for building conceptual clarity but not sufficient for complete preparation. NCERT covers approximately 60-70% of theory-based questions. For numerical problems and advanced applications, reference books like HC Verma and DC Pandey are necessary. Reddit users recommend completing NCERT first, then practicing from standard books for competitive-level problems.
- Both books serve different purposes. HC Verma is best for concept building with clear explanations and subjective problems. DC Pandey is better for extensive objective practice with varying difficulty levels. Quora users suggest using HC Verma first for theory, then DC Pandey for objective practice. Most JEE toppers recommend using both books together.
- The ratio of Class 11 to Class 12 portion in Physics is approximately 40:60. Class 12 topics like Electrostatics, Current Electricity, and Modern Physics carry higher weightage. However, Class 11 Mechanics forms the foundation for many Class 12 topics.
- Mechanics contributes approximately 7-8 questions (28-32%) in JEE Main Physics. Topics include Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work-Energy-Power, Rotational Motion, and Gravitation. Mastering Mechanics is essential as it forms the foundation for Physics.
- Deleted topics include basic Scalars and Vectors concepts, Vector Addition and Subtraction, and detailed Communication Systems. The syllabus reduction was done to avoid overlap with Mathematics syllabus. Students should verify the latest syllabus from the official NTA notification.
- Scoring 80+ marks in Physics within 3 months is achievable with focused preparation. Reddit users who achieved this recommend completing NCERT and HC Verma in the first month, extensive DC Pandey practice in the second month, and PYQs with mock tests in the third month. Consistent daily practice of 4-5 hours is essential.
- Scoring 70-80 marks in Physics typically results in 97-99 percentile. The exact correlation depends on overall paper difficulty and candidate performance. Aim for 65+ marks as a safe target for 97+ percentile.
- Physics Percentile = 100 × (Number of candidates scoring equal to or less than your Physics score ÷ Total candidates in the session). NTA calculates percentile up to seven decimal places to avoid ties.
- Yes, Physics percentile is used as a tiebreaker. When total percentile scores are equal, the candidate with higher Mathematics percentile receives a better rank first, followed by Physics, then Chemistry.
- Current Electricity and Electrostatics together have the highest weightage at approximately 16-24%. Modern Physics follows closely at 12-16%. Mechanics overall contributes 28-32% when all related chapters are combined.
- Weightage shifts slightly each year but high-weight chapters remain consistent. Current Electricity, Modern Physics, and Electrostatics have maintained high weightage for the past 10 years. Minor variations occur based on paper setters.
- Skipping chapters is not advisable. Questions can appear from any part of the syllabus. Use weightage to prioritize preparation, not to eliminate chapters. Low-weightage chapters like Units and Dimensions often contain easy, direct questions worth securing.
