JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Session 1 Shift 1 Paper Analysis (B. Arch & B. Planning): Difficulty Level & Free Question Paper PDF
Finally, all 11 shifts of the JEE Main 2026 exam are now complete. The final shift for 29 Jan 2026 for Paper B. Arch) and B. Planning) has also been completed, and students want to know the exact difficulty level of the exam papers. After taking feedback from experts and students, the blog provides you with a detailed analysis of the January 29 papers.
For this, the blog also analyzed the overall difficulty level and section-wise insights with a free question paper PDF to help you in evaluating your overall performance.
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JEE Main Exam 2026 January 29 Shift 1 (Shift Timing & Structure)
The final exam day of the JEE Main 2026 exam, 29 January, is for Paper 2A (B. Arch.) and Paper 2B (B. Planning). The exam timings are between 9 AM and 12 PM, and the examination centre gates were closed at 8.30 AM. The exam paper is based on the latest JEE Main structure, including multiple-choice and numerical value questions. All the details of the JEE Main exam 2026, 29 Jan Shift are as follows-
| Parameter | Details |
| Date of Exam | January 28, 2026 |
| Shift | Shift 1 (Morning) |
| Reporting Time | 7:00 AM (Around) |
| Last Entry | 8.30 AM |
| Exam Time | 9 AM-12 PM |
| Duration | 3 Hours (180 Minutes) |
| Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Paper | 1. Paper 2A (B. Arch.)2. Paper 2B (B. Planning) |
| Sections | Paper 2A (B.Arch.): Mathematics, Aptitude Test, and Drawing Test Paper 2B (B. Planning): Mathematics, Aptitude Test, and Planning |
| Questions to Attempt (Per Subject) | B. Arch: 100 marks 1. Math-25 (20 MCQ+ 5 numerical) 2. Aptitude- 50 questions 3. Drawing Test- 2 questions B. Planning: 100 marks 1. Math-25 (20 MCQ+ 5 numerical) 2. Aptitude- 50 questions 3. Planning- 25 questions |
| Total Questions | B. Arch: 77 to be attempted B. Planning: 100 to be attempted |
| Marking Scheme | B. Arch: Math & Aptitude: +4 for a correct answer -1 for an incorrect answer, and 0 for un-attempted Drawing: 2 questions for a total of 100 marks B. Planning: For each subject, +4 for a correct answer -1 for an incorrect answer, and 0 for un-attempted |
| Total Marks | 300 |
JEE Main Exam 2026 January 29 Shift 1 Overall Paper Analysis
The JEE Main Exam 2026 Jan 29 shift 1 was completed at 12 PM for B. Arch. and B. Planning papers, and Matrix Academy expert educators have analysed the difficulty of this shift based on the memory-based questions and student feedback.
Expert Analysis: According to the paper’s difficulty and questions, the B. Planning Section was Moderate to Difficult and Lengthy, where the whole can be solved faster if you have strong general knowledge. The overall difficulty level of the JEE Main Exam 2026 B. Arch. was moderate, where the average question attempt was 45-50 out of 77 questions. The cutoff marks for B. Arch was 90 percentile – 160-165. marks.
Subject-Wise Difficulty Level of JEE Main Exam, 29 January 2026 (Shift 1)
The following is a detailed exam paper analysis of the difficulty level of the B. Arch. and B. Planning papers as per their subjects. You can also check out the chapters that are of the highest weightage.
Paper 2A (B.Arch.) Subjects
| Subject | Difficulty Level | Topics Appeared in the JEE Main Exam 29 Jan, 2026 Shift 1 |
| Part 1- Mathematics | Moderate to Difficult | The overall paper was moderate to difficult and a little bit time-consuming. Some of the topics that appeared in the exam are: integration question (property- definite integration) Questions on arithmetic progression and geometric progression |
| Part 2- Aptitude Test | Moderate | The paper was on moderate side and mostly easier. Some of the commonly asked topics: train station (perspective drawing), 3d composition question, Question reference image – Buland Darwaza |
| Part 3- Drawing Test | Moderate | The Drawing subject was moderate and can be solved in the given time. The most commonly asked topics of this section are: match the following questions – majority – blister and architrave Priztzker price award Types of column order – Ionic and Doric columns – Corinthian Questions on famous monuments Gurudwara names match the following question Non-verbal reasoning – mirror(2), alphabet, Chandigarh plan, water image Gandhinagar city plan (grid system) 2024 UNESCO Heritage Site Counting the number of surfaces Skyline question – Delhi, Hyderabad, Bombay Statue of Unity – Odd one out questions Delhi solar panel direction Pointed arch – gothic architectiure |
Paper 2B (B. Planning) Subjects
| Subject | Difficulty Level | Topics Appeared in the JEE Main Exam 29 Jan, 2026 Shift 1 |
| Part 1- Mathematics | Moderate to Difficult and Lengthy | The Mathematics section was considered the most time-consuming and difficult section of B. Planning involved numerous complex calculations. |
| Part 2- Aptitude Test | Easy to Moderate | The Aptitude Test questions were manageable and solved in the given time. |
| Part 3- Planning | Easy to Moderate | The overall difficulty level was easy to moderate. Most of the questions are based on theoretical, government schemes, and spatial awareness-related topics. |
JEE Main Exam 2026 Session 1, 29 January 2026 Shift 1 Paper 2A (B.Arch.): Most Difficult Section
A detailed analysis of the JEE Main 2026 Exam Session 1, 28 January, by Matrix Academy is as follows-
By discussing with numerous students, we identified that the most difficult section was Mathematics, which was time-consuming. The difficulty level of the paper was Modern to Difficult, with the questions from Integration, Arithmetic Progression, and Geometric Progression.
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Mathematics Paper Analysis: Paper 2A (B.Arch.)
The JEE Main 29 Jan Shift 1 Mathematics section analysis was at a moderate-to-difficult overall level. Most questions were from the standard JEE syllabus. The high-weightage topics were Coordinate Geometry, Calculus, Sequences & Series, Vectors & 3D Geometry, and Matrices & Determinants. To excel in the mathematics section in the B.Arch paper, students require strong conceptual mastery and practiced problem-solving skills.
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper 2A (B. Arch.): Mathematics Paper Analysis
| Topic | Number of Questions (Approx.) | Difficulty Level | Remarks |
| Irrational Numbers | 1 | Moderate | Concept-based, required clarity on properties |
| Definite Integration (Properties) | 1 | Moderate–Hard | Property-based integration question |
| Arithmetic Progression (AP) | 1 | Moderate | Formula application |
| Geometric Progression (GP) | 1 | Moderate | Direct but calculation-oriented |
| Conic Sections | 5–6 | Moderate–Hard | High weightage; time-consuming |
| Circles | 1–2 | Moderate | Standard questions |
| Vectors & 3D Geometry | 1–2 | Moderate | Conceptual application |
| Matrices & Determinants | 1–2 | Moderate | Mostly NCERT-based |
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Aptitude Test Paper Analysis: Paper 2A (B.Arch.)
The JEE Main 2026 (Jan 29) B.Arch paper aptitude section was moderate level. The aptitude section was focused on spatial reasoning, architectural awareness, visual perception, and analytical logic. The aptitude questions were set in a way to evaluate a candidate’s ability to interpret 3D objects from 2D views, recognise patterns and sequences, and recall architecture-related facts such as famous buildings, styles, and elements.
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper 2A (B.Arch.): Aptitude Test Paper Analysis
| Question Type / Topic | Number of Questions (Approx.) | Key Areas Covered | Difficulty Level |
| Architectural Aptitude Test (AAT) | 10–12 | Skyline identification (Delhi, Hyderabad, Bombay), Solar panel direction (Delhi), Pointed arch (Gothic architecture), Statue of Unity | Moderate |
| General Knowledge (Architecture & Monuments) | 8 | Famous monuments, pictorial questions, elevation-based identification, UNESCO Heritage Site 2024 | Easy–Moderate |
| Surface Counting | 1–2 | 3D visualisation, counting number of surfaces | Moderate |
| Logical Reasoning (Match the Following) | 4–5 | Blister, Architrave, Pritzker Prize, Gurudwara names, column orders (Ionic, Doric, Corinthian) | Easy–Moderate |
| Non-Verbal Reasoning | 5–6 | Mirror images (2), alphabet patterns, water images, Chandigarh city plan, Gandhinagar grid system | Moderate |
| Odd One Out | 2–3 | Architecture-based and visual logic questions | Easy |
| Famous Architects / Awards | 1–2 | Pritzker Prize, architecture facts | Easy |
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Drawing Test Paper Analysis: Paper 2A (B.Arch.)
The JEE Main 29 Jan Shift 1 Drawing Test section was easy to moderate level. This section evaluates a candidate’s visualisation skills, sense of proportion, perspective understanding, and architectural awareness. As per the standard B.Arch exam pattern, the questions for JEE Main 2026 focused on perspective drawing, 3D composition, and architectural landmark-based sketching.
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper 2A (B.Arch.): Drawing Test Paper Analysis
| Question Type | Reference / Theme | Skills Tested | Difficulty Level |
| Perspective Drawing | Train Station | One-point/Two-point perspective, scale, proportion, depth | Moderate |
| 3D Composition (Object-Based) | Traveller table, cup of tea, spectacles, keychain | Object arrangement, balance, shading, spatial sense | Moderate |
| Monument-Based Drawing | Buland Darwaza (reference image provided) | Observation, architectural detailing, proportion | Moderate |
| Landscape / Garden Composition | Vrindavan Garden, Mysore | Depth, symmetry, natural elements, perspective | Easy–Moderate |
| Architectural Awareness (Theory-based Drawing) | Lotus Temple – Expressionist Architecture | Architectural style identification and concept clarity | Easy |
JEE Main Exam 2026 Session 1, 29 January 2026 Shift 1 Paper 2B (B. Planning): Most Difficult Section
Matrix Academy expert educators briefly discussed with students by considering their real-time feedback to identify the most difficult section of the JEE Main Exam B. Planning paper. By discussing with numerous students, we identified that the most difficult section was Mathematics, with numerous lengthy questions. The question paper includes numerous complex calculations, which took extra time for the students.
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Mathematics Paper Analysis: Paper 2B (B. Planning)
The JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 B.Planning paper mathematics section was moderately difficult. The questions were concept-driven and calculation-intensive. The high-weightage topics of the maths section are Algebra, Calculus, Coordinate Geometry, Trigonometry, Probability, and Vectors & 3D Geometry. Topics in calculus and Algebra continued to dominate the section. Students who are good with time management can excel in the maths section.
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper 2B (B. Planning): Mathematics Paper Analysis
| Topic | Approx. No. of Qs | Difficulty | Key Concepts Tested |
| Algebra (Sequences & Series, Quadratic) | 4–5 | Moderate | Formulas, patterns, roots |
| Calculus (Definite/Indefinite, Limits) | 4 | Moderate–Hard | Integration, differentiation |
| Coordinate Geometry (Circles, Lines, Parabolas) | 3 | Moderate | Distance, locus |
| Vector & 3D Geometry | 2 | Moderate | Direction ratios |
| Probability & Statistics | 2 | Moderate | Basic probability |
| Permutation & Combination | 1–2 | Moderate | Counting techniques |
| Trigonometry | 2 | Moderate | Identities, equations |
| Matrices & Determinants | 1–2 | Moderate | Solving systems |
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Aptitude Test Paper Analysis: Paper 2B (B. Planning)
The Aptitude section in the B.Planning paper (Jan 29, 2026) was moderate level of difficulty. The questions were focused on logical reasoning, analytical ability, spatial awareness, and interpretation skills. If we compare the aptitude section of the B.Arch paper to the B.Planning paper, it was observed that this section placed greater emphasis on data interpretation, maps, planning-based visuals, and reasoning sets rather than architectural aesthetics.
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper 2B (B. Planning): Aptitude Test Paper Analysis
| Topic | Approx. No. of Qs | Key Areas | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3D Visualization & Mental Ability | 10–12 | Visualising shapes from 2D | Moderate |
| Logical Reasoning | 8–10 | Patterns, sequences | Moderate |
| Data Interpretation (Charts/Tables) | 5–7 | Read & analyse graphs | Moderate |
| Map & Planning Interpretation | 5–7 | Directions, scale, city layout | Moderate |
| General Awareness (Cities, GK) | 8–10 | Urban terms, schemes | Easy–Moderate |
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Planning Paper Analysis: Paper 2B (B. Planning)
The Planning section is the most important and defining section of the B.Planning paper of JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 shift. The planning section tests the candidates’ understanding of basic planning concepts, urban development, sustainability, environment, infrastructure, and government policies
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper 2B (B. Planning): Planning Test Paper Analysis
| Topic / Theme | Approx. No. of Qs | Key Focus Areas | Difficulty |
| Urban Planning Basics | 5 | Principles, settlement types | Moderate |
| Environment & Sustainability | 4 | Resource planning | Moderate |
| Infrastructure & Transport | 3 | City systems | Moderate |
| Population & Resources | 3 | Demographic planning | Moderate |
| Map Reading & Spatial Interpretation | 5 | GIS, layouts | Moderate |
| Government Policies / Schemes | 3 | National/urban programmes | Easy–Moderate |
| Social & Economic Planning Concepts | 2 | Economy basics | Moderate |
JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1- Student Reactions & Feedback
As per the majority of students, the JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 exam will be announced soon. The following is a subject-wise student feedback for both exams B. Arch and B. Planning, is as follows-
B. Arch. (Paper 2A) Subjects: Most of the students consider B. Arch. JEE Main Exam 2026 is moderate to difficult. They believe that the implementation of conceptual clarity and visual understanding for formula-based questions. Students find the overall paper was lengthy but doable, especially for the Drawing and Aptitude section. Based on the paper level, students expect the 90th percentile cutoff to be around 160–165 marks.
- Mathematics: The Mathematics section was the most difficult section of B. Arch. paper. Students said that the questions were directly concept-based and irrational. 5–6 questions are from Conic Section, while Vectors and 3D Geometry also contributed 1–2 questions in the final exam paper. The Arithmetic Progression and Geometric Progression were easy to attempt.
- Aptitude Test: Most of the students find the Aptitude section interesting and scoring, but the overall section was lengthy, as per the feedback from most of the students. The section has logical reasoning questions with match-the-following questions.
- Drawing Test: The Drawing section was considered lengthy but familiar, where the perspective drawing of a train station was challenging yet standard, and most of the students appreciated the architectural depth. Overall, students found this section relatable and easily attainable.
B. Planning (Paper 2B) Subjects: A detailed subject-wise student reaction and feedback of students for B. Planning paper is as follows-
- Mathematics: Time management was a major issue in the Mathematics section for most of the students, as many questions involved multiple steps. Students with consistent math practice performed better, while others found it difficult to attempt many questions.
- Aptitude Test: Most of the students found the Aptitude section the most scoring part of the paper. As per the students, most of the questions were direct and application-based. Students balanced this section by solving fast and providing extra time for the mathematics section.
- Planning: As per the students, some questions required careful reading and understanding of real-life planning scenarios.
JEE Main Exam 2026 January 29 Shift 1 Question Paper
Every year, question papers are released on our website based on the memory-based questions after the paper. Once all the questions are collected, students can download the question papers or memory-based questions, subject-wise, from the table below:
Subject-Wise Questions Papers PDFs of January 29, 2026
B. Arch. (Paper 2A) Question Papers:
| Subject | JEE Main 2026, 29 January Session 1 Shift 1 Question Paper |
| Mathematics | Releasing Soon…. |
| Aptitude Test | Releasing Soon…. |
| Drawing Test | Releasing Soon…. |
B. Planning (Paper 2B) Question Papers
| Subject | JEE Main 2026, 29 January Session 1 Shift 1 Question Paper |
| Mathematics | Releasing Soon…. |
| Aptitude Test | Releasing Soon…. |
| Planning | Releasing Soon…. |
How to Download the JEE Main 2026, 29 January Shift 1 Question Paper PDF?
Students can download the JEE Main 2026, 29 January Session 1 Shift 1 question paper from the official website of NTA as well. We will also upload the subject-wise question papers in this blog. Students can download the papers from our website as well.
- Go to jeemain.nta.nic.in.
- Find the link for “JEE Main Papers & Answer Key” or similar.
- Log in using your application number, password/date of birth.
- Select the specific exam date and shift.
- You can then view and download the question paper, answer key, and your response sheet.
When will NTA release the Answer Key and Questions of JEE Main Exam 2026 Session 1?
The NTA will release the answer key almost 7-10 days after the exam. Students can expect the answer key and questions to be released within 2 weeks on the official website. Candidates can cross-check their responses and estimate their scores. Stay updated with the latest updates regarding the JEE Main 2026 exam and results by regularly following the NTA official website.
FAQs
Like every year, NTA takes standard time to release the answer key and results. It is estimated that the results will be released on February 12, 2026. You can access scorecards, percentiles, and ranks online at jeemain.nta.nic.in using the application number and Date of Birth.
NTA releases the official answer key along with the response sheet a couple of days after the exam. It is estimated that the response sheet will be released along with the questions 2 weeks after the JEE Main 2026 exam.
The JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper of B. Arch. (Paper 2A) exam paper difficulty level was Moderate and Lengthy. The exam paper requires a deep level of general knowledge of the topics. Most of the students confirmed that the average question attempt was 45-50 out of 77 questions.
The Mathematics section was one of the most difficult sections of the JEE Main Exam Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper of B. Arch. Most of the questions were time-consuming, as the exam paper had direct questions from topics like integration, arithmetic progression, and geometric progression.
The difficulty level of the Aptitude Section of the JEE Main Exam, Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper of B. Arch was moderate and mostly easier. The most common topics were 3d composition question, Question reference image – Buland Darwaza.
The difficulty level of the JEE Main Exam Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper of B. Arch. (Paper 2A) Drawing Test was moderate, where most of the students reviewed that this section can be solved in the given time easily.
The JEE Main 2026 Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper of B. Planning (Paper 2B) difficulty level was moderate. The cutoff marks for B. Arch was 90 percentile – 160-165. marks.
The Mathematics section of the JEE Main Exam Jan 29 Shift 1 Paper of B. Planning (Paper 2B) Mathematics was moderate to difficult and lengthy. The section was mostly time-consuming for the students.
The Aptitude section of B. Planning was easy to moderately difficult. Most of the questions were manageable and solved in the given time.
The Planning section of the JEE Main Exam 2026 B. Planning was easy to moderate. The majority of the questions were based on theoretical, government schemes, and spatial awareness-related topics.
