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Is there negative marking in JEE Main 2026: The JEE Main is one of the most important entrance exams in the country conducted by NTA (National Testing Agency) for aspiring engineering and architecture students aiming to secure admission in prestigious institutions like IITs, NITs, and other centrally funded technical institutes across India. This exam assesses candidates understanding of the main syllabus and their problem-solving skills through a comprehensive main exam pattern. As the exam approaches, candidates seem to have confusion regarding various aspects, including the exam pattern, negative marking scheme, and preparation strategies. This article clarifies those doubts which will help aspirants gain clarity regarding the exam.
Contents
Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. The JEE Main 2026 comprises two papers: Paper 1 for B.E/B.Tech and Paper 2 for B.Arch & B.Plan. Each has a distinct structure, question type, and marking scheme, which candidates must familiarize themselves with so that they can plan accordingly and optimize their performance which will increase the chances of securing a good rank.
Mode: Computer-based test format
Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
Number of Questions: 90 questions (30 questions per subject)
Total Marks: 300 marks
Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) structure and Numerical Value Questions
Duration: 3 hours
Mode: Computer-based test format (Part I) and Drawing Test (Part II for B.Arch)
Subjects: Mathematics, Aptitude Test, Drawing Test (for B.Arch), Planning-based questions (for B.Plan)
Number of Questions: Varies by paper
Total Marks: Varies
Duration: 3 hours
Part I: Mathematics (MCQs and numerical questions)
Part II: Aptitude Test (MCQs)
Part III: Drawing Test (descriptive)
Marking Scheme: Varies, MCQs carry positive marks, and some questions may have negative marking
Part I: Mathematics
Part II: Planning-based questions
Part III: General Awareness
Marking Scheme: Similar to B.Arch, with positive and negative marking for MCQs
The answer to the question- Is there negative marking in JEE Main 2026 is Yes. There is a negative marking scheme in the JEE Main 2026 exam pattern. Every question answered incorrectly will result in a deduction of marks, which emphasizes the importance of accuracy over blind guessing. Specifically, for each main question, every incorrect answer will lead to a penalty (-1 mark for each wrong response), typically one-third of the marks assigned to that question (+4 marks for each correct answer). Due to this penalty based scoring methodology candidates must be cautious while attempting questions, especially when unsure of the correct answers.
Correct answers: +4 marks (for MCQs) or +4 marks (for numerical questions)
Incorrect answers: -1 mark (for MCQs) or no penalty for unattempted questions
Unattempted questions: No marks awarded or deducted
This negative marking scheme is designed to discourage candidates of random guessing and reward candidates for their knowledge and preparation.
Once aspirants have clarity regarding the question- Is there negative marking in JEE Main 2026 then the next step should be to take necessary steps and develop a strategy that they can follow during their preparation journey to avoid negative marking. Below mentioned are some of those steps-
Practice with mock tests: Regularly solving questions through mock tests helps aspirants familiarize themselves with the exam pattern and reduces chances of attempting wrong answers. It also helps aspirants in developing strategic decision making required for exam.
Time management: Practicing time management can help allocate appropriate time to each question and avoid rushing and committing careless mistakes. With practice candidates can develop their own strategies for time allocation during exam time.
Answer only when confident: Avoid guessing on questions where you are unsure; leave them blank if necessary but if required only calculated guessing techniques should be used after risk reward analysis.
Focus on accuracy: Prioritizing understanding concepts over attempting all questions can greatly reduce the chances of attempting wrong answers.
Review your answers: If time permits, revisit questions you are unsure about before submitting.
The main syllabus for JEE Main 2026 covers topics from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics aligned with the NCERT curriculum. Aspirants should have a thorough understanding of the main syllabus and chapter wise weightage so that they can effectively prepare for the exam.
Candidates should prepare for both objective and descriptive questions as per the main exam pattern.
Candidates can follow the below mentioned tips to improve their performance and increase the chances of clearing the exam:
Understand the syllabus– Aspirants must familiarise themselves with the syllabus thoroughly to develop effective preparation methodology which can help them prepare systematic learning approach.
Quality study materials– Preparation for any competitive exam starts with the selection of quality materials for preparation and similar is the case with JEE Main. Aspirants should only use resources which are recommended and have good reputation when it comes to preparing for JEE Main.
Focus on conceptual clarity– As JEE Main questions test candidates problem solving ability so to make oneself exam ready aspirants must have strong understanding of the fundamental concepts.
Practice previous year questions and mock tests– Solving previous year question papers and taking regular mock tests will familiarise with question pattern and can contribute in aspirants self-confidence development.
Take notes– Making notes from the very start will help an aspirant throughout their preparation journey but most importantly notes are very handy during the last minute revision.
Clear doubts immediately– As the syllabus is vast doubts should not be piled up but immediately resolved and all kinds of confusion should be made clear after every class so that candidates are ready for the next class.
Keep track of your progress– Aspirants should track their performance to develop performance optimisation methods which can help them in improving their performance and in score maximisation.
Preparing for the JEE Main 2026 requires a strategic approach, especially understanding the exam pattern and negative marking scheme. Thorough knowledge of the main syllabus, focused practise and smart answering strategies will help you excel in the exam and secure your dream engineering or architecture seat.
JEE Main syllabus for Paper 1 is completely different from Paper 2. Paper 1 will consist of topics from Maths, Physics and Chemistry, whereas Paper 2 will consist of Maths, aptitude, planning specific topics and a drawing test.
The JEE Main syllabus covers most NCERT topics but excludes some specific sections.
There is no clear answer as it will vary form student to student. As the JEE Main syllabus is quite vast candidates should start their preparation as early as possible atleast 1 year in advance and plan their preparation journey properly by dedicating proper time for revisions.
