Physics Made Easy: Tackling the Toughest Topics in JEE Mains 2026
Physics Made Easy: Tackling the Toughest Topics in JEE Mains 2026
Physics is often a love-hate subject for JEE aspirants. While some find it fascinating, others struggle with its conceptual depth and problem-solving demands. If you are preparing for JEE Mains 2026, you have probably faced those tricky questions that make you scratch your head and doubt your preparation.
But do not worry—this blog is here to make Physics easier and more manageable, even for the toughest topics!
At eFastForward.in, we believe that smart strategy, the right guidance, and consistent practice can turn your weaknesses into strengths. So, let us break down the most challenging Physics topics in JEE Mains and figure out how you can tackle them like a pro.
1. Mechanics: The Foundation (But a Pain for Many)
Mechanics is the backbone of Physics, and it carries significant weight in JEE Mains. Topics like Laws of Motion, Rotational Motion, Work-Energy Power, and Centre of Mass often seem tough because they require deep conceptual understanding.
Why It is Tough:
You need to visualize motion and forces
Multiple forces acting in different directions can get confusing
Rotational motion introduces new parameters like torque and moment of inertia
How to Tackle It:
Start with theory: Understand Newton’s Laws deeply, not just the formulas
Use free-body diagrams (FBDs) religiously
Solve previous year JEE problems – they show how concepts are tested
For rotational motion, relate it to linear motion to simplify
Tip: Stick to one trusted reference book like DC Pandey Mechanics Vol 1 & 2 and supplement with HC Verma for conceptual clarity.
2. Electromagnetism: Confusing but Scoring
Electromagnetism is notorious for its complex formulas and interlinked topics like Magnetic Effects of Current, Electromagnetic Induction, and Alternating Current.
Why It is Tough:
Too many formulas to memorize and apply correctly
Visualization of magnetic fields and direction of currents can be tricky
Lenz’s Law and Faraday’s Law involve direction-based logic
How to Tackle It:
Understand the right-hand and left-hand rules with practical examples
Use animated videos to visualize magnetic fields and induction
Practice conceptual MCQs – they test theory more than calculation
Build a formula sheet and revise regularly
3. Modern Physics: Small Chapter, Big Confusion
Chapters like Photoelectric Effect, Atomic Structure, Nuclear Physics, and Dual Nature of Matter fall under Modern Physics. They are short in syllabus length but tricky in application.
Why It is Tough:
Involves abstract concepts like quantum behavior, energy levels, and particle-wave duality
Often includes data-based questions and unit conversions
How to Tackle It:
Focus on understanding the experiments like Einstein’s photoelectric experiment
Memorize key results like energy levels in hydrogen atom, binding energy, etc.
Solve past year JEE questions – patterns repeat often
Create a one-pager formula sheet for revision
Scoring Potential: Modern Physics can be the easiest 2–3 questions in JEE Mains – do not ignore it!
4. Thermodynamics & Kinetic Theory: Conceptual Web
Thermodynamics overlaps with Chemistry too, which adds to the confusion. Topics include Laws of Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, Calorimetry, and Kinetic Theory of Gases.
Why It is Tough:
Requires understanding of systems, processes, and heat-work relations
Sign conventions (positive or negative work/heat) confuse many students
Problems are a mix of logic, formula, and unit handling
How to Tackle It:
Practice drawing P-V diagrams and understanding processes (isothermal, adiabatic)
Revise first and second law applications with solved examples
Memorize key relations like:
Work done in different processes
Ideal gas equation applications
Practice short problems daily – it is all about application
5. Optics: A Game of Diagrams and Ray Paths
Ray optics and wave optics both appear in JEE Mains, with Ray Optics being more frequently asked.
Why It is Tough:
Heavy dependence on diagrams and geometry
Questions often involve multiple reflections and refractions
Lens formula and sign conventions are easy to mess up
How to Tackle It:
Master the mirror and lens formula with correct sign conventions
Practice ray diagrams daily – visuals are the key here
Learn common tricks like “object at 2f” and “object at focus” for quick solving
Wave optics needs understanding of interference and diffraction – visualize double slit experiment for clarity
6. SHM & Waves: Abstract and Mathematical
Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM) and Waves are interconnected and often appear in both JEE Mains and Advanced.
Why It is Tough:
SHM has complex equations and time-based parameters
Wave superposition, standing waves, and resonance confuse many
How to Tackle It:
Visualize SHM as circular motion projection — it helps in understanding displacement, velocity, and acceleration relations
Memorize standard equations like:
x = A sin(ωt + φ)
Energy at various positions
Solve graphical problems — they’re frequent in JEE
Knowing what is tough is half the battle. Now, let us look at a strategy to master these topics effectively:
Build Conceptual Clarity First: Do not jump into solving questions blindly. Understand the theory from NCERT first, then move to standard reference books.
Focus on PYQs (Previous Year Questions): JEE Mains repeats its concepts, if not exact questions. Solve the last 10 years of PYQs for Physics – especially from these tough topics.
Use Visual Tools: Many concepts in Physics are visual – like ray optics, motion, fields, and waves. Use YouTube videos, simulations, or interactive diagrams to understand them better.
Daily Practice is Non-Negotiable: Physics is a subject of application. You cannot master it without practice. Set aside 1–1.5 hours daily just for Physics problem-solving.
Weekly Topic-Wise Tests: Take chapter-wise mock tests every week. This helps in identifying weak spots early and improves exam temperament.
Best Resources for These Topics
Here are some tried-and-tested resources you can use:
Books:
HC Verma (Concepts of Physics) – Must for theory and solved examples
DC Pandey Series – Excellent for chapter-wise practice
NCERT Physics – The gold standard for JEE Mains theory
Cengage Mechanics / Optics / Electro – For advanced practice
Online Platforms:
eFastForward.in – For structured test series, mock tests, and video classes
YouTube Channels like Physics Galaxy or Unacademy JEE for visual clarity
Marks Distribution – Where Should You Focus More?
Based on the last few years of JEE Mains papers:
Topic
Approx. Questions
Marks
Mechanics
5–6
20–24
Electromagnetism
4–5
16–20
Modern Physics
3–4
12–16
Thermodynamics + KTG
2–3
8–12
Optics
2–3
8–12
SHM & Waves
2–3
8–12
So, if you master just these topics, you can easily score 60+ marks in Physics alone!
Final Thoughts: Physics is Tough, But You’re Tougher
Every JEE topper has struggled with Physics at some point. What makes the difference is how they approached it—with strategy, persistence, and smart revision.
"You don’t have to be perfect in Physics. You just need to be consistent."
So, whether you’re struggling with Rotational Motion or trying to understand the Photoelectric Effect, trust that with the right help (like you’ll find at eFastForward.in), you can and will get better.
Keep pushing. Keep practicing. And Physics will soon feel a lot less scary and a lot more exciting.
Sanjay Sharma is a Business Evangelist and VP (Content) at Arihant Publications, leading JEE & NEET exam prep. With rich experience in educational content, he has driven strategy and innovation in digital learning at Adhipati Creations and beyond.