Changes in JEE Main Exam Pattern

Introduction
The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main is a national-level engineering entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in India. It is the gateway for admission into various undergraduate engineering programs offered by prestigious institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and other government-funded technical institutes.

Recent Changes in JEE Main Exam Pattern

1. Mode of Examination
- Earlier, the JEE Main exam was conducted in offline mode (pen and paper-based test). However, since 2019, it has been conducted in online mode (computer-based test) only.
- The shift to computer-based testing has made the examination process more efficient, as it eliminates the need for physical question papers and answer booklets.

2. Number of Papers
- Previously, JEE Main had two papers: Paper 1 for B.E./B.Tech. aspirants and Paper 2 for B.Arch/B.Planning aspirants. Candidates could choose to appear for either one or both papers.
- From 2021, the B.Arch and B.Planning exams have been separated into two different papers, making it a total of three papers. Now, candidates can choose to appear for any one or more of the three papers, depending on their course preferences.

3. Number of Questions
- Until 2020, JEE Main Paper 1 (B.E./B.Tech.) consisted of 90 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with a total of 360 marks. Each subject (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) had 30 questions.
- However, from 2021 onwards, JEE Main Paper 1 has been revised to have a total of 75 questions, out of which 20 are MCQs and 5 are numerical value-based questions. The total marks for the paper remain the same (360 marks).

4. Marking Scheme
- In the previous exam pattern, each correct answer in JEE Main Paper 1 carried 4 marks, while an incorrect answer resulted in a deduction of 1 mark (negative marking). No marks were deducted for unanswered questions.
- In the revised pattern from 2021, the marking scheme for MCQs remains the same as before. However, for numerical value-based questions, there is no negative marking for incorrect answers. This change encourages students to attempt all questions without fear of losing marks.

5. Syllabus
- The syllabus for JEE Main has remained relatively unchanged over the years. However, the NTA has clarified that the syllabus for the exam will be based on the JEE Main Information Bulletin, and any reduction in the syllabus will be announced officially.

Conclusion
The JEE Main exam pattern has undergone significant changes in recent years, such as the shift to online mode, the addition of a third paper, the modification of the number and type of questions, and the revision of the marking scheme. These changes aim to streamline the examination process and provide a fair opportunity for all aspirants to showcase their knowledge and skills. It is essential for students to stay updated with the latest exam pattern and syllabus to prepare effectively for the JEE Main.