As of December 8, 2025, candidates preparing for the JEE Main 2026 January session (scheduled from January 21 to 30, 2026) are advised to prioritise specific chapters that consistently feature high-weightage questions. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has outlined the syllabus for JEE Main 2026, and based on previous exam trends and expert analysis, certain topics in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are considered essential for securing a high rank. This article details the ‘do or die’ chapters that candidates must master to maximise their score in the upcoming exam.
Physics: Must-Focus Chapters for JEE Main 2026
Physics in JEE Main 2026 is known for its conceptual depth and application-based questions. The following chapters have consistently contributed a significant number of questions in recent years and are expected to be critical for the January 2026 session:
- Mechanics (Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work, Energy, and Power): This forms the backbone of Physics, with frequent questions on motion, forces, and energy conservation. Mastery of these concepts is essential for solving both direct and application-based problems.
- Electrostatics and Current Electricity: These chapters are highly scoring and feature multiple questions each year. Topics like Gauss’s law, capacitors, and Kirchhoff’s laws are frequently tested.
- Magnetism and Electromagnetic Induction: Questions on magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction, and Faraday’s laws are common and can be high-scoring if practised well.
- Optics (Ray and Wave Optics): Optics is a scoring section with a mix of theoretical and numerical questions. Focus on reflection, refraction, interference, and diffraction.
- Modern Physics: This includes atomic structure, nuclear physics, and semiconductors. These chapters are conceptually important and often yield direct questions.
Chemistry: High-Scoring Chapters for JEE Main 2026
Chemistry in JEE Main 2026 is divided into Physical, Organic, and Inorganic Chemistry. The following chapters are considered crucial for maximising marks:
- Physical Chemistry: Thermodynamics, Chemical Equilibrium, and Electrochemistry: These topics are fundamental and feature a mix of theory and numerical questions. Thermodynamics and electrochemistry are particularly important for scoring.
- Organic Chemistry: General Organic Chemistry, Hydrocarbons, and Aldehydes, Ketones, and Carboxylic Acids: Organic Chemistry is heavily weighted, with questions on reactions, mechanisms, and named reactions. Practice reaction pathways and conversions.
- Inorganic Chemistry: Periodic Table, Chemical Bonding, Coordination Compounds, and Metallurgy: These chapters are theory-heavy but yield direct questions. Focus on periodic trends, bonding theories, and coordination chemistry.
Mathematics: Key Chapters for JEE Main 2026
Mathematics in JEE Main 2026 is known for its calculation-intensive nature and conceptual clarity. The following chapters are considered essential:
- Calculus (Differential and Integral Calculus): Calculus is the most important section, with a high number of questions on differentiation, integration, and their applications. Practice both theory and numerical problems.
- Algebra (Complex Numbers, Quadratic Equations, Matrices, and Determinants): Algebra is a scoring section, especially in topics like matrices, determinants, and quadratic equations.
- Coordinate Geometry (Straight Lines, Circles, Parabola, Ellipse, Hyperbola): Coordinate Geometry features a mix of direct and application-based questions. Practice graph-based problems and equations.
- Vectors and 3D Geometry: These chapters are conceptually important and often yield direct questions. Practice vector algebra and 3D geometry problems.
- Probability and Statistics: These topics are scoring and often feature in the exam. Focus on probability distributions and statistical measures.
JEE Main 2026 Strategy for Covering ‘Do or Die’ Chapters
Candidates aiming for a top rank in JEE Main 2026 must adopt a strategic approach to cover these high-weightage chapters:
- Prioritise Conceptual Understanding: Focus on building a strong conceptual foundation in each chapter. Use official NTA resources and NCERT textbooks for clarity.
- Practice Previous-Year Questions: Solve questions from the last five years to understand the pattern and difficulty level of questions from these chapters.
- Revise Regularly: Allocate time for regular revision of these chapters to retain concepts and formulas.
- Take Mock Tests: Attempt mock tests that emphasise these chapters to assess preparation and improve time management.
Exam Preparation Tips for JEE Main 2026
Focus on JEE Main 2026 preparation by creating a balanced study schedule, prioritising high-weightage chapters, using official resources like the NTA syllabus, and staying updated with notifications to ensure accurate preparation and effective exam readiness.
- Create a Study Schedule: Allocate time for each ‘do or die’ chapter based on your strengths and weaknesses. Balance your preparation across all three subjects.
- Use Official Resources: Refer to the official JEE Main 2026 syllabus and exam pattern for accurate information. Avoid third-party sources.
- Stay Updated: Keep track of any updates or notifications from the National Testing Agency regarding the exam schedule, syllabus, or pattern.
Conclusion
Mastering the ‘do or die’ chapters in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics is crucial for scoring well in JEE Main 2026. By focusing on these high-weightage topics, candidates can maximise their chances of securing a top rank in the January 2026 session. Stay focused, practice regularly, and use official resources to ensure a thorough preparation for the exam.
