Is It Possible to Score 99+ with Just Physics and Chemistry? JEE 2025

Many students wonder if they can skip mathematics entirely and still achieve a 99 percentile score, focusing only on physics and chemistry. This question arises because of struggles with solving math problems or avoiding negative marking in the subject. The session aims to address whether this strategy is feasible while providing insights into its implications.

In the January attempt, achieving a 99 percentile required scoring around 200 marks out of a total of 300. Exceptions were noted where easier shifts allowed students to score lower yet achieve the same percentile. To reach this target without excelling equally in all subjects is challenging; balancing scores across physics, chemistry, and mathematics proves more practical than relying solely on two subjects. Specifically for mathematics, securing approximately 50 marks (15 questions) suffices for attaining a similar percentile level.

For the 2024 exams, certain chapters hold significant weight. In three-dimensional geometry, two questions are guaranteed; similarly, sequence and series also yield two questions. Definite integration and differential equations each contribute with two expected questions as well. Vector algebra, functions, straight lines, binomial theorem, probability, complex numbers typically have one to two possible questions per chapter. Additional important topics include area under curves (one to two), limits (one), application of derivatives (AOD) with one or sometimes up to two queries alongside matrices contributing a single question.

Prerequisites for Mastering Key Math Topics To excel in three-dimensional geometry, understanding vector algebra and straight lines is essential. Sequence and series require no prerequisites, making it an independent topic. Definite integration demands a solid grasp of basic functions due to its foundational reliance on them; similarly, differential equations necessitate knowledge of both differentiation and integration. Chapters like vector algebra, matrices, binomial theorem have minimal or no prerequisites but topics such as probability depend heavily on permutation-combination concepts while complex numbers need strong geometric skills.

Strategic Approach to Learning Mathematics Effectively Prioritize chapters without prerequisites first for efficient learning progression while ensuring prerequisite-heavy ones like quadratic equations are not skipped before tackling advanced topics with higher weightage. Use reliable sources—video lectures or theory books—for building fundamental concepts through theoretical study combined with solving basic problems initially.

To effectively solve previous year questions (PYQs), focus on a structured approach. Begin by selecting a reliable source of chapter-wise PYQs and thoroughly solving each question from one specific attempt or topic, such as "Sequence and Series." Avoid jumping to the next set without consolidating your understanding; instead, bundle all solved questions together for review. This method ensures deeper comprehension rather than aimless repetition, leading to improved performance in mock tests.

Understanding patterns is crucial for solving questions efficiently, especially those combining Arithmetic Progression (AP) and Geometric Progression (GP). Identifying the pattern allows quick recognition of question types like series-based or telescopic series. For example, recognizing a telescopic series involves creating differences in numerators to simplify calculations. Similarly, problems involving AM-GM inequality or general terms require familiarity with their specific structures. Mastering these categorizations through practice enables faster problem-solving during exams.