IIT JAM 2026 Question Papers: Check Subject-wise Memory-Based Questions

IIT JAM Question Papers 2026: Important Highlights

• Overall IIT JAM 2026 paper was moderate to difficult, with many students reporting that the paper looked easy initially but felt lengthy during solving, especially due to calculation-heavy questions and a demanding Part C.

• Time management played a crucial role across both Mathematics and Chemistry, as several questions were conceptually straightforward but required multiple steps, making accuracy under pressure difficult.

• Part C was the most difficult section, particularly in Mathematics, where integration, functions of several variables, and multi-step problems consumed significant time.

• Mathematics paper was moderate to difficult, with a clear tilt towards applied mathematics and calculus, while real analysis and series had fewer or no questions, which was unexpected for many candidates.

• Integral calculus in Mathematics was tough, with questions requiring non-trivial manipulation and careful execution, making it a major rank-separating topic.

• ODE and First Order Equations were very easy, with direct, standard questions that provided quick scoring opportunities for prepared students.

• Permutations and Combinations had 3 easy questions, and Binomial Theorem also had 3 moderate questions, making algebra relatively scoring compared to calculus.

• Group theory questions were easy, concept-based, and appeared in good number, rewarding candidates with strong fundamentals.

• Functions of Several Variables had lengthy, essay-type questions, especially in Part C, whereas functions of one variable were easy, with only 1–2 direct questions.

• Matrices and idempotent matrix questions were limited, with one question each, and a system of equations with infinite solutions requiring parameter values was also asked.

• Applications of derivatives appeared through a radius of curvature question, which was standard but required precise differentiation.

• Chemistry paper was overall easy to moderate, but, similar to Mathematics, felt lengthy due to calculation-heavy Physical Chemistry questions.

• Physical Chemistry was the toughest section, even though questions were mostly direct and formula-based, as they involved long calculations and careful numerical handling.

• Around 11 questions from Physical Chemistry were attempted by many students, indicating its high weightage and importance in score determination.

• Key Physical Chemistry topics included first-order kinetics, quantum chemistry, and LMCT energy, all requiring clarity of formulas and steady computation.

• Inorganic Chemistry was easy to moderate and scoring, dominated by conceptual questions rather than heavy calculations.

• Inorganic topics asked included BF₃ structure, coordination chemistry, Fe₃O₄, P₄O₈ (POP bond), diborane reaction, and bond angle problems, all familiar to well-prepared candidates.

• Organic Chemistry was moderate to tough, with fewer direct questions and more application-based thinking, including a terpene-related question.

• MCQs had low sureness in Chemistry, as reported by some students, mainly due to close options and calculation pressure.

• Overall, the exam rewarded conceptual clarity, speed, and endurance, rather than rote learning, and candidates strong in algebra, ODE, inorganic chemistry, and formula application gained a clear advantage.

IIT JAM Chemistry memory-based questions 2026 with solutions will be mentioned below after the exam is over. Stay Tuned!

IIT JAM 2026 Question Paper

This section provides the complete IIT JAM 2026 question paper, allowing aspirants to review all questions, understand the exam pattern, and practice effectively for future attempts.

IIT JAM 2026 Question Paper Analysis

Analysis of the exams that are over have been given below.

IIT JAM Maths 2026 Analysis: Shift 1

Overall Difficulty and Paper Structure

The overall difficulty level of the Mathematics paper was moderate to difficult. While a section of candidates reported the paper as manageable, a larger share felt it was lengthy, with Part C emerging as the most challenging section. Time pressure played a significant role, particularly for candidates who struggled with integration-heavy problems.

Compared to previous years, the paper showed a shift in emphasis. Questions from applied mathematics increased, while those from real analysis decreased. This change influenced both perceived difficulty and score distribution.

1. Permutations and Combinations

• 3 questions appeared.

• These were largely easy and standard, involving familiar counting techniques.

• Despite being conceptually simple, they required careful reading to avoid logical errors.

2. Binomial Theorem

• 3 questions were reported.

• The difficulty level was moderate, mostly direct applications of binomial identities.

• This section acted as a reliable scoring area.

3. Group Theory

• Group theory featured prominently.

• Questions were reported as easy to moderate, focusing on basic properties rather than abstract constructions.

• Candidates with clear conceptual foundations found this section comfortable.

4. Integral Calculus

• Questions from integration were consistently described as tough.

• At least one definite integration problem required non-trivial manipulation.

• This section significantly contributed to the paper feeling lengthy and demanding.

5. Ordinary Differential Equations (ODE) and First Order Equations (FOE)

• Widely regarded as too easy.

• Questions involved the direct application of standard solution methods.

• These served as confidence boosters, especially in contrast to integration.

6. Functions of Several Variables

• Questions from this topic were present and described as lengthy or “essay-type”, requiring multi-step reasoning.

• Though not conceptually hard, they were time-consuming, particularly in Part C.

7. Functions of a Single Variable

• 1 to 2 questions appeared.

• These were easy, involving basic limits or continuity-related ideas.

• Well-prepared candidates could solve them quickly.

8. Matrices and Idempotent Matrices

• 1 question from matrices and 1 from idempotent matrices were reported.

• Both were concept-based and straightforward, testing theoretical understanding rather than computation.

9. Systems of Equations

• A question involving infinite solutions, requiring the determination of parameters (such as aaa and bbb), appeared.

• This tested rank conditions and consistency, aligning well with JAM standards.

10. Applications of Derivatives

• A radius of curvature question was included.

• This was standard but required accurate differentiation and formula recall.

11. Series and Real Analysis

• No questions from the series or convergence were reported.

• Overall, real analysis had fewer questions than usual, marking a notable deviation from earlier trends.

12. Statistics

• Limited presence, but at least one question was indicated by student feedback.

Responses from students reflected mixed reactions. Some candidates felt the paper was easier after completion, while others maintained that it was overall tough, primarily due to length and integration-heavy sections. A common observation was that easy algebra and ODE questions balanced tougher calculus problems, leading to a paper that was selective but fair. The IIT JAM Mathematics 2026 paper emphasised applied mathematics, algebra, and calculus, with reduced focus on real analysis and series. Success depended less on memorisation and more on conceptual clarity, speed, and endurance, particularly in Part C. Candidates strong in algebra and differential equations gained an advantage, while integration remained the key differentiator.

IIT JAM Chemistry 2026 Analysis: Shift 1

Overall Paper

• Overall difficulty was easy to moderate

• Paper felt lengthy to many students

• Questions were mostly direct, but time-consuming

• MCQs had low sureness, as reported by some candidates

Physical Chemistry

• Considered difficult and lengthy

• Many students attempted around 11 questions from this section

• Questions were direct and formula-based, but calculations were long

• Topics asked:

  • First-order kinetics

  • Quantum chemistry

  • LMCT energy

• Physical chemistry acted as a rank-determining section

Inorganic Chemistry

• Difficulty level was easy to moderate

• Mostly conceptual and theory-based questions

• Topics asked:

  • BF₃ structure

  • Coordination chemistry

  • Fe₃O₄ (oxidation state and coordination related)

  • P₄O₈ (POP bond related)

  • Diborane reaction

  • Bond angle questions

• Inorganic chemistry was scoring for well-prepared students

Organic Chemistry

• Difficulty level ranged from moderate to tough

• Fewer direct reactions, more application-based questions

• Topics reported:

  • Terpene-related question

• Organic chemistry was less scoring compared to inorganic

More Observations

• Quantum chemistry question was confirmed

• Coordination chemistry had clear presence

• Applied and physical concepts dominated more than organic

• Compared to last year, some students felt the paper was tougher

• Easy-looking paper, but time management was crucial

• Physical chemistry decided the final score spread

• Inorganic chemistry provided balance and scoring opportunities

• Organic chemistry required careful thought, not guesswork

IIT JAM 2025 Answer Key

This section contains the official or memory-based answer key for IIT JAM 2026, helping candidates cross-check their responses, evaluate performance, and analyse solutions.

IIT JAM 2026 Question Paper with Solutions

This section provides the full IIT JAM 2026 question paper along with step-by-step solutions, helping aspirants understand the solving approach, learn problem-solving strategies, and practice effectively for future attempts like IIT JAM 2027.

IIT JAM Preparation Tips – How to Score High

This section provides essential IIT JAM preparation tips, helping aspirants plan effectively, strengthen conceptual understanding, and improve speed and accuracy to score high in the exam.

Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Start by thoroughly understanding the IIT JAM exam pattern, marking scheme, and subject-wise syllabus. Each subject includes MCQs, Multiple Select Questions (MSQs), and Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions. Knowing the pattern helps in effective planning and focusing on high-weightage topics.

Create a Subject-Wise Study Plan

Divide your preparation across all subjects and chapters. Allocate more time to difficult or high-scoring topics while maintaining a balance between theory and numerical problem practice. A structured timetable ensures no topic is left untouched and reduces last-minute stress.

Strengthen Conceptual Clarity

Focus on understanding fundamental principles, derivations, and formulas rather than rote memorisation. Use NCERT textbooks and standard reference books to build a strong foundation in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biotechnology, or Economics.

Practice Previous Years’ Question Papers

Solving IIT JAM sample papers helps identify question trends, difficulty levels, and frequently tested topics. It improves problem-solving speed, builds confidence, and helps manage time effectively during the exam.

Take Regular Mock Tests

Full-length mock tests simulate the real IIT JAM environment. They enhance speed, accuracy, and exam confidence. Analyse mistakes after each test and revise weak areas to maximise scoring potential.

Focus on Numerical Answer Type (NAT) Questions

NAT questions carry significant marks and require precise calculation. Practice step-by-step numerical problems daily, memorise key formulas, and use shortcuts for faster and more accurate solving.

Revise Important Topics Regularly

Revision is essential. Maintain concise notes, formula sheets, and topic summaries. Focus on high-yield chapters that are frequently tested and revise them multiple times before the exam.

Manage Time Effectively During Preparation

Time management is crucial during preparation for the exam. Solve questions within a time limit, prioritise easier questions first, and allocate remaining time to difficult problems. Avoid spending too long on a single question.

Why IIT JAM Question Papers Are Important for Future Aspirants

• Understand exam pattern and overall paper structure

• Identify frequently asked topics across subjects

• Assess the difficulty level of MCQs, MSQs, and NAT questions

• Improve conceptual clarity through real exam questions

• Enhance problem-solving skills and analytical thinking

• Practice time management under exam-like conditions

• Recognise question trends and repeated concepts

• Build exam confidence by solving authentic papers

• Strengthen accuracy in Numerical Answer Type (NAT) questions

• Plan focused preparation using topic-wise weightage insights

IIT JAM 2026 Mock Tests

Candidates must participate in the IIT JAM 2026 mock tests as part of their preparation. These mock tests play a crucial role in assessing one’s readiness and understanding the difficulty level of the exam. Below are links to the official IIT JAM mock tests, created by IIT Delhi, the exam’s conducting body. Candidates are strongly encouraged to practice these mock tests before appearing for the actual examination.