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JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 Analysis 2026: Jan 29, B.Arch, B.Planning Exam Review and Updates

Anisha Mishra
Jan 29, 2026, 13:22 IST

The JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 for Architecture and Planning is being held today, January 29 (9:00 AM–12:30 PM), for entry into NITs, IIITs, and CFTIs. Paper 2A (B.Arch) features 77 questions (400 marks) across Mathematics, Aptitude, and an offline Drawing section, while Paper 2B (B.Planning) is a fully online 105-question test (400 marks) focused on Planning-based content. Candidates are strictly required to present a valid Admit Card and must avoid carrying mobile phones or calculators to prevent a U.M.C. registration. 

 

JEE Main 2026 Paper Analysis 2026: Jan 29 Shift 1 Exam Review and Updates
JEE Main 2026 Paper Analysis 2026: Jan 29 Shift 1 Exam Review and Updates

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The JEE Main is a computer-based test (CBT) for Paper 1 (BE/B.Tech), featuring Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and numerical value answer type questions.
  • JEE Main Exam 2026 will be conducted in two shifts morning and afternoon
  • The exam is typically conducted twice a year (Session 1 in January and Session 2 in April)

The JEE Main 2026 Session 1 Paper 2 for Architecture and Planning is being conducted today, January 29, 2026, in a single morning shift from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM. This examination serves as the gateway for admission into B.Arch and B.Planning programs at premier institutions such as NITs, IIITs, and CFTIs. As there only one shift for Paper 2, The live updates on the JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 exam will be updated here after the exam concludes. We deliver an immediate breakdown of the examination's landscape, including difficulty trends and subject-specific weightage. To ensure a smooth testing experience, candidates must strictly adhere to board regulations, such as producing a valid Admit Card with an attested photograph.

JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 Structure & Exam Pattern

The exam is divided into two distinct papers based on the candidate's chosen field:

Feature

Paper 2A: B.Arch (Architecture)

Paper 2B: B.Planning (Planning)

Core Subjects

Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Drawing

Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Planning-based questions

Total Question Count

77 questions

105 questions

Total Marks

400 marks

400 marks

Mode

Mathematics and Aptitude: Online (CBT); Drawing Test: Offline (Pen-and-Paper)

Entirely Online (CBT)

JEE Main January 29, 2026: Live Exam Analysis & Key Highlights

We are tracking the following critical updates to help you gauge your performance:

  • Real-Time Difficulty Scaling: Immediate classification of the paper as Easy, Moderate, or Difficult based on direct student sentiment and expert reviews.

  • Subject-Wise Topic Distribution: A deep dive into whether Mathematics remained calculation-intensive, and which specific chapters dominated the Physics and Chemistry sections.

  • Expert Cut-off Estimations: Preliminary predictions for qualifying marks and percentile trends for the 2026 session.

  • Memory-Based Question Bank: A curated collection of questions shared by test-takers to help future aspirants understand the current question pattern.

Mandatory Guidelines for Candidates

  • Essential Documents: Candidates must carry their printed JEE Main 2026 Admit Card, a valid original Photo ID, and one passport-size photograph.

  • Drawing Kit (B.Arch Only): Architecture students must bring their own HB/2B pencils, erasers, sharpeners, and geometry boxes for the drawing section.

  • Prohibited Items: Electronic devices such as mobile phones, calculators, and smartwatches are strictly forbidden and will result in a U.M.C. (Unfair Means Case) registration if found.

  • Accessibility Support: Specially abled aspirants are provided with an amanuensis and an extra 20 minutes per hour.

LIVE UPDATES
Check Latest Updates Refresh
  • Jan 29, 2026, 13:22 IST

    JEE Main Jan 29 Exam LIVE: Rough Sheet Related Instructions by NTA

    Blank paper sheets for rough work of A4 size will be provided in the JEE Mains exam hall.

    Important instructions for candidates:

    1. Candidates must write their name and Roll Number at the top of each of the sheets.
    2. After the exam, they must drop the sheet(s) in the designated drop box without fail, before leaving the exam hall. Failure to do so may result in a non-evaluation of your answers.
  • Jan 29, 2026, 12:10 IST

    How to Challenge JEE Main Paper 2 Answer Key 2026

    The facility to challenge the JEE Main Answer Key 2026 Paper 2 Session 1 is made available online on the same day as its release, requiring candidates to log in to the official website using their application form number and password. Upon logging in and clicking on the JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 Answer Key link, they will see the answer key displaying both the correct option ID and the option they selected.

    To raise an objection, candidates must click on 'raise objections,' select the specific question ID they wish to challenge, choose the answer they deem correct, and then submit the challenge along with the required fee. After successful submission, the NTA will review all challenges and subsequently publish the final answer key, after which no further challenges will be accepted.

  • Jan 29, 2026, 11:30 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Live Updates: 1 Hours to Exam Get Over

    The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2026 is rapidly drawing to a close, with candidates now in the final hour of the crucial session. This period marks the last opportunity for aspirants to meticulously review their attempted questions, address any remaining doubts, and strategically allocate time to unanswered problems. The atmosphere inside the examination halls across the nation is charged with focused concentration as students strive to maximize their scores in the final moments of this highly competitive national-level engineering entrance test, which paves the way for admission into NITs, IIITs, and other central technical institutions.


  • Jan 29, 2026, 11:05 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Paper 2 Exam LIVE: Total questions in JEE Mains

    The exam is divided into two distinct papers based on the candidate's chosen field:

    Feature

    Paper 2A: B.Arch (Architecture)

    Paper 2B: B.Planning (Planning)

    Core Subjects

    Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Drawing

    Mathematics, General Aptitude, and Planning-based questions

    Total Question Count

    77 questions

    105 questions

    Total Marks

    400 marks

    400 marks

    Mode

    Mathematics and Aptitude: Online (CBT); Drawing Test: Offline (Pen-and-Paper)

    Entirely Online (CBT)

  • Jan 29, 2026, 10:50 IST

    JEE Main 2026 BArch

    Candidates can download JEE Main 2026 answer key using the instructions given here

    1. Visit jeemain.nta.nic.in.
    2. Click on answer key link.
    3. Login using your JEE Main 2026 application number and password/date of birth.
    4. The answer key will be displayed on the screen along with the response sheet.
    5. Download the answer key and take its printout.
  • Jan 29, 2026, 10:31 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Jan 29: Check Bio Break Rules

    • Mandatory Repeat Screening: If a candidate leaves the examination hall for a bio-break or to use the toilet, they are required to undergo the entire security process again.

    • Re-Frisking: Candidates must undergo a fresh round of mandatory frisking to ensure no prohibited items are brought back into the hall.

    • Secondary Biometric Attendance: Biometric verification, including fingerprint or facial scanning, must be completed again upon re-entry.

    • Supervision Requirements: Restroom breaks are generally permitted only under supervision and must strictly adhere to the rules established at the individual exam center.

    • Avoidance Advice: The NTA advises candidates to use facilities before entering the hall to avoid the inconvenience and time consumption associated with these repeated security checks.

  • Jan 29, 2026, 10:29 IST

    JEE Mains 2026 Jan 29 Exam to End at 12:30 Noon

    The JEE Main 2026 January 29 exam will end at 12:30 noon. After the exam ends, candidates can check here the exam analysis, student reactions and memory-based question paper with solutions.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 18:03 IST

    JEE Main 2026 January 28 Shift 2 Exam Ends; Students are Leaving Exam hall

    The shift 2 of the JEE Main 2026 Today exam is over. The candidates are leaving their centre. With this, the paper 2 of the JEE Main 26 January session is over.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 18:03 IST

    JEE Mains 2026 exam live: April session registration dates

    JEE Main 2026 session 2 exams will be held between April 2 and 9. The exact exam dates will be announced later on by NTA.

     

  • Jan 28, 2026, 16:13 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Exam: How to Download NTA JEE Main Answer Key 2026

    It is expected that official answer keys will be out in the first week of February 2026. Candidates can download JEE Main 2026 answer key using the instructions given here

    1. Visit jeemain.nta.nic.in.
    2. Click on answer key link.
    3. Login using your JEE Main 2026 application number and password/date of birth.
    4. The answer key will be displayed on the screen along with the response sheet.
    5. Download the answer key and take its printout.
  • Jan 28, 2026, 15:58 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 Tomorrow

    The National Testing Agency (NTA) is scheduled to conduct the JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 for Architecture and Planning aspirants tomorrow. Here are the essential details regarding the examination schedule and candidate requirements:

    JEE Main 2026 Paper 2 Schedule

    1. Exam Date: The entrance test for both BArch (Paper 2A) and BPlan (Paper 2B) will take place tomorrow, January 29, 2026.

    2. Exam Shift: The examination will be conducted in a single shift.

    3. Exam Timing: The session is scheduled to run from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 15:22 IST

    JEE Main 2026 January session final shift for BE/BTech paper ongoing

    The final shift of the JEE Main 2026 January session is now underway. A comprehensive analysis of the overall paper, covering difficulty levels and subject-wise trends, will be updated here after 6 PM today. Candidates are encouraged to stay tuned for real-time insights and expert reviews as the session concludes.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 14:03 IST

    JEE Main 28 Jan Shift 1 Expected Marks vs Percentile

    Marks Range

    Expected Percentile

    228+

    99.9 Percentile

    170+

    99 Percentile

    114+

    95 Percentile

    102+

    93.24 Percentile

  • Jan 28, 2026, 13:59 IST

    Prohibited Items for JEE Main 2026 Shift 2 Exam

    Possession of any of the following will lead to the registration of an Unfair Means Case (U.M.C.):

    • Electronic Gadgets: Mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, Bluetooth devices, or earphones.
    • Academic Materials: Any written notes, books, or loose pieces of paper.
    • Stationery Note: Candidates must bring their own log tables and pencils for any map or technical work required by the paper.
  • Jan 28, 2026, 13:56 IST

    Mandatory Checklist: What to Carry in JEE Main 2026 Shift 2 Exam

    Before departing for your assigned center, ensure you have the following essential items:

    1. Admit Card: A printed copy of your JEE Main 2026 Admit Card.
    2. Identity Proof: An original, valid Photo ID (matching the one used during your application process).
    3. Photographs: Two recent passport-size photographs.
    4. Verification Certificate: Only applicable for students who specifically received an email from the NTA regarding a photo verification certificate.
  • Jan 28, 2026, 13:48 IST

    JEE Mains 28 January Shift 2 Dress Code and Exam Day Guidelines

    As the JEE Main 2026 sessions continue, it is vital for candidates to remain compliant with the official NTA guidelines to ensure a hassle-free entry into the examination hall. While there is no rigid "uniform," certain restrictions are strictly enforced to maintain the integrity of the exam.

    Dress Code for All Candidates

    The NTA has specified certain clothing and accessory restrictions for both male and female students:

    • Footwear: Shoes with thick soles are not permitted; candidates are advised to wear slippers or sandals.
    • Clothing: Garments featuring large buttons are strictly prohibited.
    • Jewelry and Accessories: It is highly recommended to avoid wearing rings, bracelets, necklaces, or any metallic accessories (including underwired bras) as these will trigger alerts during the mandatory security screenings.
    • Religious Attire: Sikh candidates are officially permitted to carry customary items such as a Kara or Kirpan, provided they adhere to the standard security protocols.
  • Jan 28, 2026, 13:32 IST

    JEE Main 2026 (January 28, Shift 1): Paper Analysis

    Early feedback from the January 28 Shift 1 session indicates that time management continues to be a significant hurdle for many aspirants. A common observation among candidates was the inability to attempt a substantial number of Mathematics questions, primarily because the Physics and Chemistry sections consumed a disproportionate amount of their allotted time.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 13:20 IST

    JEE Main 2026 January 28 Shift 1: Marks vs Percentile

    Based on preliminary expert analysis of the JEE Main 2026 January 28 Shift 1 exam, the expected marks vs. percentile trend suggests that a score of approximately 175 marks may be required to achieve a 99 percentile. A more comprehensive breakdown and finalized data will be provided as further student feedback is processed.

     

  • Jan 28, 2026, 13:11 IST

    JEE Main 2026 January 28 LIVE: Difficulty level subject wise

    Subject

    Difficulty Level

    Mathematics

    Moderate and Lengthy

    Physics

    Easy to Moderate but Lengthy

    Chemistry

    Moderate and Lengthy

    Overall Paper

    Moderate and Lengthy

  • Jan 28, 2026, 13:07 IST

    JEE Main 2026 January 28 Shift 1 LIVE: Advice for the upcoming session

    To secure a high score in the JEE Main 2026, educational experts and high-scoring students emphasize the importance of comprehensive syllabus coverage and exposure to a diverse range of question types. Furthermore, consistent practice of time-management strategies is essential to ensure all sections are completed efficiently during the actual exam.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 13:06 IST

    JEE Main 2026 January 28 LIVE: Shift 1 Subject wise topics asked

    SubjectTopics Asked
    Maths 3d and vectors, ellipses, circles, AP, GP, Matrix, differential equations, limit, quadratic equation, sets & relation and integration.
    Physics

    Ray optics, electrostatics, semiconductors, SHM, current electricity, rotation, moment of inertia, fluid mechanics, Potentiometer, vernier calliper, and thermodynamics.

    Chemistry Coordination compounds, the d-block, and zero error.
    Overall Moderate and Lengthy
  • Jan 28, 2026, 12:30 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Exam Analysis: Essential Guidelines for Remaining Shifts

    To ensure a smooth examination experience, candidates must strictly adhere to board regulations:

    1. Security Protocols: The use of calculators or mobile phones is strictly prohibited, and violation will result in the registration of an Unfair Means Case (U.M.C.).
    2. Mandatory Documentation: Entry is only permitted upon production of a valid Admit Card featuring a scanned and attested photograph.
    3. Required Materials: Candidates are responsible for bringing their own log tables and pencils for map or technical work.
    4. Accessibility Support: Specially abled candidates (including those with visual, hearing, or physical impairments) are entitled to the services of an amanuensis and 20 minutes of extra time per hour.
  • Jan 28, 2026, 12:28 IST

    Toughest JEE Mains 2026 January Exam shifts

    Based on the ongoing analysis of the JEE Main 2026 Session 1, the following trends regarding paper difficulty have emerged:

    • Toughest Session: Among the eight shifts completed so far, the January 23 Shift 2 is currently ranked as the most challenging for aspirants.

    • Second Most Difficult: The January 22 Shift 2 follows closely, ranking as the second toughest shift of the session.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 12:22 IST

    JEE Main 2026 January 28 Shift 1: Check Paper was Easy, Moderate or Difficult

    Subject

    Difficulty Level (Student Feedback)

    Key Observations

    Overall Paper

    Moderate but Very Lengthy

    Time management was the biggest challenge due to the lengthy nature of the paper.

    Physics

    Moderate

    Reported as the section that took the most time.

    Mathematics

    Moderate

    Reported as lengthy and time-consuming.

    Chemistry

    Moderate

    Found to be moderate in difficulty.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 12:06 IST

    JEE Mains Jan 28 Shift 1 Exam Ends

    The JEE Main 2026 January 28, Shift 1 examination for Paper 1 (BE/B.Tech) has officially concluded at 12:00 PM IST. Candidates are now exiting the examination centers, and our reporting teams are on the ground to gather immediate, first-hand feedback.

    Here’s what you can expect shortly on this live blog:

    • Live Student Reactions: Quick reports on the overall difficulty, section-wise challenges (Physics, Chemistry, Maths), and general student experience.

    • Initial Paper Analysis: A preliminary breakdown of the paper's structure and topic weightage.

    • Memory-Based Questions: Compilation of questions based on student recall, which will be followed by expert-prepared unofficial answer keys.

    Stay tuned for the most immediate updates on the JEE Main 2026 Jan 28, Shift 1 paper review.


  • Jan 28, 2026, 11:33 IST

    NTA Advisory: Warning Against Fake JEE Main Paper Leak Claims

    The National Testing Agency (NTA) issued a strict advisory following the conclusion of the JEE Main 2026 January Day 5 exams (January 28). This warning was specifically aimed at candidates and the public regarding the circulation of false and misleading information.

    Key Aspect

    NTA Advisory Details

    Source of Concern

    False claims and rumors regarding a "Paper Leak" for the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 examination.

    NTA Stance

    The National Testing Agency has clarified that these claims are fake and unfounded.

    Recommendation

    Candidates and parents are strongly advised to not heed or believe these false claims.

    Official Channels

    Candidates should rely only on official communication from the NTA website (nta.ac.in or jeemain.nta.ac.in) for all verified updates and information concerning the examination.

    Action Taken

    NTA confirms that robust security and monitoring protocols were in place to ensure a fair, secure, and tamper-proof examination process.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 11:31 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Exam: Student Reactions and Analysis: Coming Soon

    Candidates who appeared for the JEE Main 2026 Shift 1 (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) exam have begun exiting the examination centers. Our reporting teams are on-site to gather immediate feedback on the paper's difficulty, section-wise challenges, and overall experience. Stay tuned to this live blog for the first student reactions, expert-led analysis, and initial predictions for the Shift 1 cut-offs, which will be updated here shortly.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 11:18 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Admit Card Guidance

    • Mandatory Document: Keep the Session 1 Admit Card, as it is essential for all future processes (counseling, document verification, and Session 2 registration).

    • Re-download: The Admit Card can be re-downloaded anytime from the official JEE Main 2026 Login portal.

    • Backup Strategy: Store multiple physical and digital copies for secure backup.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 11:08 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Jan session live: Results by February 12, 2026

    The National Testing Agency (NTA) has officially stated that the JEE Main 2026 Session 1 exam result is scheduled for announcement by February 12.

    Registrations for the second attempt (April session) will commence in the third week of January 2026. Candidates who take the January 2026 session exam are also eligible to apply for the April session. The JEE Main 2026 application form for Session 2 will be made available online on the official website: jeemain.nta.nic.in.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 11:04 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Exam Shift 1: Only One Hour Remaining Until Exam Conclusion

    The time is running out for students taking the JEE Main 2026 Shift 1 exam today, January 28th. There is only one hour left until the exam finishes at 12:00 PM IST. The students are working hard in the exam halls. As soon as they leave, our team will start collecting their first thoughts and doing a full review of the paper. Keep following this live blog to quickly find out how hard the paper was, how each subject was, and what experts first think about the Shift 1 paper.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 10:34 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Jan Session Day 5 Exam Live: Expected Cutoff

    JEE Main cut off 2026 is most likely to increase across all categories. The expected JEE Mains cutoff 2026 percentile is given here. 

    Category

    Cutoff 2026

    Unreserved (UR)

    93.3045326

    Gen-EWS

    81.4387917

    OBC-NCL

    80.7456432

    SC

    61.3526948

    ST

    48.2456783

    UR-PwD

    0.0082349

  • Jan 28, 2026, 10:31 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Dress Code for Females today

    Female candidates appearing for the JEE Main 2026 examination must strictly adhere to the NTA dress code guidelines to ensure a smooth entry and frisking process.

    Item Category

    Permitted (You Can Wear)

    Prohibited (Strictly Avoid)

    NTA Guideline Compliance

    Footwear

    Simple slippers, floaters, open flat sandals, or low-heeled footwear.

    Shoes with thick soles, boots, or any closed-toe footwear.

    Compliance with "Shoes with thick sole... not allowed."

    Upper Wear

    Light top, simple t-shirt, light sweater, or a thin, simple sweatshirt. Lightweight fabrics are highly preferred.

    Heavy jackets, padded coats, trench coats, hoodies with thick linings, and multiple layers of thick clothing.

    Eases the frisking process and prevents unauthorized items.

    Clothing Details

    Plain jeans, simple trousers, or warm leggings/jeggings with minimal or no pockets.

    Garments with large buttons, metallic zippers, metallic-threaded embroidery, large decorative badges, or large pockets.

    Compliance with "...garments with large buttons are not allowed."

    Innerwear

    Important: Simple, non-wired bras.

    Underwired bras, as the metallic wiring may trigger metal detectors during frisking.

    Prevents unnecessary delays during security checks.

    Accessories & Jewellery

    None allowed. Simple hair ties/bands.

    All jewellery (rings, earrings, necklaces, bangles, bracelets), watches (digital/analogue), belts, caps, hats, mufflers, scarves, stoles.

    Strict security measure; all metallic items are prohibited.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 10:14 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Exam: Memory-Based Questions and Analysis Soon

    The JEE Main 2026 January 28, Shift 1 exam will be concluded at 12:00 PM IST. Candidates are exiting the exam centers, and our team is gathering immediate feedback.

    Here's what you can expect next:

    • Student Reactions: Quick reports on the paper's difficulty, which sections were tough/easy, and overall experience.

    • Memory-Based Questions & Answer Keys: Shortly, we will publish the unofficial questions and answers based on student recall. These are prepared by coaching experts.

    • Expert Analysis: A detailed review of the paper's structure, topic weightage, and subject-wise difficulty (Physics, Chemistry, Maths).

    • Expected Cutoff: Initial predictions for the JEE Main 2026 qualifying cutoff (for JEE Advanced).

  • Jan 28, 2026, 10:12 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Exam: Important Warnings for Candidates

    Late Arrival Strictness: Candidates will not be permitted to enter the examination center after the gate closure time, regardless of the reason (e.g., traffic, public transport issues, personal delays). Candidates must arrive at the center well in advance of the reporting time.

  • Jan 28, 2026, 10:11 IST

    JEE Main 2026 Jan 28 live updates: Exam STARTED

    NTA has commenced the JEE Main Jan 28 2026 shift 1 exam at 9 am and will end at 12 pm. Candidates will be allowed to leave the exam hall only after the exam ends at 12 noon. Two hours left for exam to get over.

     

The JEE Main 2026 January 29 exam day has provided critical insights into the structure and difficulty of Session 1. As the day progresses, we will continue to update this live blog with in-depth analysis for Shift 1 detailed subject reviews, and refined cut-off predictions based on expert feedback. Keep refreshing this page for the newest student reactions, memory-based questions, and the most current exam analysis.

Check: How Many Marks Are Required in JEE Main 2026 to Qualify for JEE Advanced?

Check: JEE Main 2026 Documents to Carry on Exam Day


Anisha Mishra
Anisha Mishra

Executive - Editorial

Anisha Mishra is journalist with over 3 years of experience in covering the Indian education sector. She has worked extensively in the K12 domain, with focus on the state board as well as central board examinations, policy structure of seconday and higher secondary education as well as the entrance examinations like JEE, NEET, CLAT, etc. Her extensive experience in the domain has helped her provide students with concise accurate information in all aspectes of school life and education. Her key interest lies in decoding the changes in the curriculum, NEP implementation and changing education ecosystem in the country. Besides working, she enjoys traveling, exploring new places and cultures, and painting.

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