What is the Difference between Syllabus, Pattern and Preparation of JEE Main and JEE Advanced

Have you ever wondered how the JEE Mains and JEE Advanced differ? Find out more out the syllabus, paper pattern, and preparation strategy so that you are better prepared:

 

Paper Pattern

The JEE Main Question Paper (Paper 1) has multiple choice questions covering Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. The JEE Advanced Paper 1 & 2, however, have objective questions based on these subjects and multiple answers are correct.
JEE Main consists of 300 marks and questions are classified according to each subject in the MCQ pattern, with 25 questions in each section. For each correct answer, you get +4 marks, and a wrong responses gets -1.
The JEE Advanced paper has 306 marks, with three sections for each subject. Each of these contains a different kind of MCQ pattern; a single MCQ can have more than one correct answer. This is an important difference; ensure you keep this distinction in mind. Before appearing for an exam, it is vital to be aware of the question format and marks distribution so that you can prepare effectively.
Another major difference is the difficulty level. JEE Advanced is much higher than JEE Mains, and your preparation will have to match these requirements.

 

Syllabus

Both exams have different syllabi. The JEE Main syllabus is based on Class 11 and 12 Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. However, though the syllabus is similar for both, the JEE Advanced paper covers a few additional topics.

 

Preparation

Here are some tips to keep in mind.

a) Take the time to understand the entire syllabus. You must have a clear, comprehensive and detailed idea of what is required for both examinations. Begin with topics that are common to both. For example, both the Mains and the Advanced exams will have questions on gravitation, waves, optics and semiconductors.
b) Once you have understood the common chapters of each subject in depth, move on to the subjects that vary in both exams.
c) Whichever exam you are studying for, you must have a detailed understanding. This knowledge will stand you in good stead, even if you appear for any other exam with similar syllabi in future.
d) Another key difference between the Mains and Advanced examination is the pattern of questioning. The Mains usually involve direct formula-based questions. The Advanced paper will have derivation-based questions too. You must be able to tackle any kind of question, and in-depth understanding of the subject will help you to do this.
e) While appearing for a national level entrance exam, where competition is fierce, ensure that you prepare adequately. ‘Practice makes perfect’ may be a cliché, but it is essential to remember this. Try and solve as many questions as you can. Mock tests are an important preparation tool, and you must sit for as many as possible. When faced with such an important exam, and so many aspirants, rote learning will never be enough.

So take the time to understand what is required, and prepare properly. These exams may be challenging, but with the right attitude and planning, you are sure to ace them!