The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main is one of the most competitive and prestigious entrance exams for students in India aspiring to pursue undergraduate engineering courses. The exam is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and is essential for admission to NITs, IIITs, and other top engineering colleges.
The JEE Main consists of two different papers – Paper 1 and Paper 2. Understanding the differences between these papers is crucial for candidates to prepare effectively and know what to expect during the exam. This JEE Main Paper 1 and 2 difference guide delves into the structure, syllabus, questions, duration, and other key details.
JEE Main Paper 1
The Basics
JEE Mains Paper 1 is a computer-based exam for candidates aspiring to pursue B.Tech programs. It assesses candidates’ understanding of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The exam format consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and numerical-based problems, testing both theoretical knowledge and problem-solving abilities.
Syllabus
The syllabus for JEE Mains Paper 1 is based on the NCERT curriculum for Class 11 and 12.
- Physics: Topics like Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Optics, Electromagnetic Induction, and Modern Physics.
- Chemistry: Covers Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry, including Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, and Organic Reaction Mechanisms.
- Mathematics: Key topics include Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, and Probability.
Total Questions
So, how many questions are there in JEE Mains? JEE Main Paper 1 consists of 90 questions in total, divided equally across the three subjects.
- Physics: 30 questions (20 MCQs + 10 numerical-based).
- Chemistry: 30 questions (20 MCQs + 10 numerical-based).
- Mathematics: 30 questions (20 MCQs + 10 numerical-based).
Candidates need to answer a mix of MCQs and numerical questions within the allotted 3-hour duration.
JEE Mains Paper 2
The Basics
JEE Mains Paper 2 is for candidates aiming to pursue B.Arch or B.Planning programs. Unlike Paper 1, it is conducted in both computer-based and pen-and-paper formats. The exam consists of three sections: Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Drawing. It evaluates both academic knowledge and creativity.
Syllabus
The JEE Main Paper 2 syllabus includes:
- Mathematics: Similar to Paper 1, it covers Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry, and Geometry.
- General Aptitude: This section tests logical reasoning, general knowledge, and spatial orientation.
- Drawing: The Drawing section assesses artistic and creative skills, requiring candidates to sketch objects and scenes as per instructions.
Total Questions
How many questions in JEE Mains Paper 2? It has a total of 82 questions.
- Mathematics: 30 questions (20 MCQs + 10 numerical-based).
- General Aptitude: 50 questions (all MCQs).
- Drawing: 2 questions (hand-drawn sketches)
This paper is also conducted over a 3-hour period, with a mix of MCQs, numerical questions, and drawing tasks.
Key Differences Between JEE Main Paper 1 and Paper 2
Mode of Examination
One of the most noticeable differences between JEE Main Paper 1 and Paper 2 is the mode of the examination. JEE Main Paper 1 is conducted as an entirely computer-based test, meaning all questions are answered on a computer screen.
In contrast, JEE Main Paper 2 is a mix of both computer-based and pen-and-paper modes, particularly for the Drawing section, which requires candidates to physically draw on paper.
Type of Questions
The types of questions in both papers also differ significantly. JEE Main Paper 1 is composed of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and numerical-based questions, primarily testing the candidate’s grasp of subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
On the other hand, JEE Main Paper 2 includes sections like General Aptitude and Drawing. The General Aptitude section is MCQ-based, while the Drawing section requires candidates to sketch and illustrate various objects, showcasing their creative skills.
Subject Focus
While JEE Main Paper 1 focuses on three core subjects – Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics – JEE Main Paper 2 has a broader scope, with additional sections.
Apart from Mathematics, candidates in Paper 2 must also attempt the General Aptitude section, which tests logical reasoning, spatial intelligence, and general knowledge, and the Drawing section, which assesses their drawing skills and creativity.
Exam Duration
The time allocated for both papers also differs. JEE Main Paper 1 lasts for 3 hours, and candidates must answer 90 questions in that time. In contrast, JEE Main Paper 2 is also conducted over 3 hours, but the division of time is slightly different due to the unique Drawing section, which requires additional time for the sketching process.
Here’s a quick overview of the differences –
| Aspect | JEE Main Paper 1 | JEE Main Paper 2 |
| Mode of Examination | Computer-based test (CBT) | Mix of computer-based and pen-and-paper modes |
| Type of Questions | Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and numerical-based questions | MCQs (General Aptitude) and Drawing (sketching) |
| Subject Focus | Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics | Mathematics, General Aptitude, Drawing |
| Exam Duration | 3 hours (for 90 questions) | 3 hours (for 82 questions, including Drawing) |
| Total Questions | 90 questions (30 each in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) | 82 questions (Mathematics, General Aptitude, Drawing) |
How Many Papers and Sessions in JEE Mains?
How many papers are there in JEE Mains? The answer is two – Paper 1 and Paper 2. Paper 1 is for students who wish to take admission in B.Tech programs, while Paper 2 is for those aiming for B.Arch or B.Planning courses. However, not all candidates are required to take both papers. The choice between the two papers depends on the course the candidate is interested in pursuing.
Many students also wonder, what is session 1 and 2 in JEE Mains? These terms refer to the two separate sessions in which JEE Main is conducted each year. Typically, JEE Main is held twice: once in January (Session 1) and again in April (Session 2). Candidates can choose to appear for either one or both sessions. This gives candidates a second chance to improve their scores if they do not perform well in the first session.
JEE Main Paper 1 and 2 Difference: Conclusion
So, what is Paper 1 and Paper 2 in JEE Mains? The difference mainly lies in the structure, type of questions, subject focus, and mode of examination.
Paper 1 is primarily for B.Tech aspirants and is conducted in a computer-based format with multiple-choice and numerical questions in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Paper 2, however, is for B.Arch and B.Planning aspirants, consisting of Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Drawing sections, and includes both computer-based and pen-and-paper elements.
By familiarizing themselves with these differences and focusing on the relevant subjects and question types, candidates can approach the JEE Main exam with greater confidence and clarity.
FAQs on JEE Main Paper 1 and 2 Difference
JEE Paper 2 can be easier for students with creative skills, as it includes General Aptitude and Drawing, while Paper 1 focuses on technical subjects.
Paper 1 is for B.Tech aspirants, testing Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, while Paper 2 is for B.Arch and B.Planning aspirants, with additional sections on General Aptitude and Drawing.
Yes, you can give both papers if you’re applying for different courses, such as B.Tech and B.Arch or B.Planning.
JEE Paper 2 can be tough due to the diverse skills required, including Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Drawing.
Scoring 150 in JEE Mains is achievable with focused preparation, but it depends on the difficulty of the exam and individual performance.
A score of 241 is considered a good score and can likely secure admission to top NITs or other reputable engineering colleges.
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