How to Prepare for IIT JAM Mathematics 2026: Books & Question Papers

IIT JAM 2026 Mathematics Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme

Before deep diving into studying the mathematical concepts, it is crucial to understand the exam pattern and marks distribution to do focused preparation. Given below is the exam pattern and sectional marking scheme for aspirants to get a grasp of the IIT JAM 2026 exam pattern.

Provided below is the negative marking scheme for IIT JAM 2026 Mathematics:

IIT JAM 2026 Mathematics Syllabus

This section outlines the key topics and units of the IIT JAM Mathematics 2026 syllabus, helping aspirants plan their preparation strategically.

Topic-wise Weightage for IIT JAM 2026 Mathematics (Expected from Previous Year Trends)

Here we present the expected topic-wise weightage for IIT JAM 2026 based on previous year trends, allowing candidates to focus more on high-scoring areas.

High-Weightage Topics

• Calculus: Emphasis on differential equations, series convergence, and limit properties.

• Linear Algebra: Vector space properties, matrix operations, and transformations are frequently tested.

• Group Theory: Sylow theorems, subgroup properties, and cyclic group characterization are important.

Expected Difficulty Level

We have provided below the expected difficulty level to help you in IIT JAM 2026 Preparation for Mathematics:

The overall paper is expected to be moderate to high difficulty, with numerical problems in Real Analysis and Differential Equations being relatively more challenging, while theoretical questions focus on conceptual understanding.

IIT JAM Mathematics 2026 Best Books

Candidates preparing for IIT JAM 2026 are advised to go through these study materials for IIT JAM Mathematics. Study materials for IIT JAM 2026 come in various forms, such as books, journals, and online resources. Here is a list of the best books for IIT JAM 2026 Mathematics for the convenience of the candidates.

IIT JAM Mathematics 2026 Preparation Tips

Candidates who are preparing for the IIT JAM Mathematics exam must know that scoring well in the IIT JAM Math requires a well-structured approach to excel in this JAM entrance exam. Candidates are advised to follow these tips for a better IIT JAM Mathematics preparation:

• Understand the Syllabus: Begin by thoroughly understanding the IIT JAM mathematics syllabus. It's crucial to know what topics are covered to create a focused JAM study plan.

• Study Material: Candidates are advised to use the recommended textbooks and study materials. Some popular choices include books by renowned authors and IIT JAM previous years' question papers.

• Time Management: Create a study schedule that allocates sufficient time to each subject and topic. It is needless to say that consistency is key.

• Practice Regularly: Mathematics is a subject that requires practice. Solve a variety of problems from different topics to improve problem-solving skills.

• Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to get a feel for the actual IIT JAM 2026 exam pattern and time constraints. It helps in improving speed and accuracy.

• Concept Clarity: Focus on understanding the underlying concepts rather than rote learning. Clear concepts make problem-solving more efficient.

• Seek Guidance: If you face difficulties, don't hesitate to seek guidance from professors, mentors, or join coaching classes.

• Stay Healthy: Maintain a balanced lifestyle with proper nutrition and sleep. A healthy body supports a sharp mind.

• Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with any changes in the exam pattern or syllabus.

• Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and self-belief throughout your preparation. Remember, consistent and focused preparation is the key to success in the IIT JAM mathematics exam.

IIT JAM Mathematics Previous Year Questions Papers

Practicing previous year question papers gives insight into question patterns, difficulty levels, and frequently asked concepts for IIT JAM 2026 Mathematics.

IIT JAM 2025 Mathematics Analysis

• The IIT JAM 2025 Mathematics paper followed the same format as previous years.

• The paper was calculation-heavy, requiring candidates to perform focused calculations throughout the exam.

• According to initial feedback, the paper was slightly easier than the previous year but still lengthy and time-consuming.

• The paper included a question on relations and functions based on set homomorphism.

• A notable change this year was the inclusion of real analysis-based questions in the differential equations section.

• Candidates found that the one-mark questions were the easiest.

IIT JAM 2026 Mathematics Sample Questions

Given below are some questions from the past year IIT JAM Mathematics paper to help candidates get an idea of what to expect in future attempts.

1. Let G be a group of order 39 such that it has exactly one subgroup of order 3 and exactly one subgroup of order 13. Then, which one of the following statements is TRUE?

(A) G is necessarily cyclic
(B) G is abelian but need not be cyclic
(C) G need not be abelian
(D) G has 13 elements of order 13

2. Which one of the following is TRUE for the symmetric group S13?

(A) S13 has an element of order 42
(B) S13 has no element of order 35
(C) S13 has an element of order 27
(D) S13 has no element of order 60

3. Which one of the following is TRUE for the symmetric group S13?

(A) S13 has an element of order 42
(B) S13 has no element of order 35
(C) S13 has an element of order 27
(D) S13 has no element of order 60

4. Which one of the following groups has elements of order 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 but does not have an element of order greater than or equal to 6?

(A) The alternating group A6
(B) The alternating group A5
(C) S6
(D) S5

5. Which of the following statements is/are TRUE?

(A) The additive group of real numbers is isomorphic to the multiplicative group of positive real numbers.
(B) The multiplicative group of nonzero real numbers is isomorphic to the multiplicative group of nonzero complex numbers.
(C) The additive group of real numbers is isomorphic to the multiplicative group of nonzero complex numbers.
(D) The additive group of real numbers is isomorphic to the additive group of rational numbers.

IIT JAM Mathematics 2026 Last Minute Preparation Tips

As the IIT JAM Mathematics 2026 exam approaches, the final weeks become crucial for consolidating your preparation and maximising your performance. This is not the time for learning new concepts or diving into complex topics you haven't touched before. Instead:

• Create concise formula cards for each topic and review them every morning and evening.

• Focus on papers from the last 5 years to understand current exam trends and question patterns.

• Spend 15-20 minutes daily on quick arithmetic to improve calculation speed during the exam.

• Go through all errors made during practice tests and ensure you don't repeat them.

• Prioritise Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Real Analysis as they carry the maximum marks.