Preparing for the JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) Mains often proves to be a daunting task that demands unshakeable determination, consistent hard work, and a sharp intellect. But the one question that boggles even the smartest of students is: “Is NCERT enough for JEE Mains preparation?” To answer this, one needs to introspect their dedication in the subjects and the level of preparation.
If you too have this question clouding your minds, read through this article to understand If NCERT is enough for JEE Mains preparation or you need extra resources to prep up. In this article, we will also help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of preparing for JEE Mains through NCERT books.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Why NCERT Books Are Important for JEE Mains
NCERT syllabus and books are considered as the fundamental resource or study material for any JEE aspirant. The straightforward and simpler language of the NCERT books often make it easier for students to comprehend complex concepts easily and effectively.
Listed below are some reasons why NCERT books for JEE Mains are indispensable for JEE Mains aspirants:
- Conceptual Clarity: NCERT books are thoughtfully designed to ensure that students can understand fundamental concepts easily. This is typically important for JEE Mains aspirants because grasping basic concepts can help them solve complex problems rather easily.
- Alignment with the Syllabus: In many aspects, NCERT syllabus closely aligns with the JEE Mains syllabus. And studying NCERT books helps aspirants prepare all the essential topics required for the JEE mains exam.
- Inorganic Chemistry Mastery: NCERT books are known for their brilliant coverage and explanations of topics like Inorganic Chemistry. In fact, a lot of questions asked in the JEE Mains exams are either inspired from or directly taken from the NCERT books.
- Cost-Effective Resource: In addition to being simple and effective, NCERT books are also affordable, making them a cost-effective option for JEE Mains exam preparation.
- Recommended by Experts: Most educators and teachers recommend NCERT books for setting the base of JEE Mains exam preparations right.
Is NCERT Chemistry Enough for JEE Mains?
NCERT books provide wide coverage of the fundamental concepts of chemistry across the 3 major branches:
- Physical Chemistry: NCERT books offer a good theoretical foundation to physical chemistry; however, it is important to refer to additional resources for solving advanced numerical problems. While you can easily understand the basic equations and concepts via NCERT books, it is important to master concepts and practice from supplementary books for IIT JEE Mains aspirants.
- Organic Chemistry: NCERT books are great when it comes to covering the fundamental concepts of organic chemistry, including functional groups and reaction mechanisms. However, cracking JEE Mains is not a child’s play. Serious aspirants who want to stay ahead of the competition should refer to additional resources for a more detailed and in-depth practice.
- Inorganic Chemistry: NCERT books are widely regarded as the best resources for preparing topics of inorganic chemistry. In fact, many questions in JEE Mains exams are directly taken from NCERT’s Inorganic Chemistry chapters. That’s why aspirants must ensure to thoroughly read NCERT Inorganic Chemistry books for JEE Mains exam preparation.
Is NCERT Enough for JEE Mains Mathematics?
Mathematics remains one of the most important subjects for JEE Mains exams. NCERT books do a decent job when it comes to offering clarity and explanation on basic theories and formulas. However, NCERT mathematics books lack a wide variety of application-based problems that JEE Mains demands. Therefore, it is important for JEE Mains aspirants to refer to additional books such as “RD Sharma” for practicing high-level problems.
Is NCERT Enough for JEE Mains Physics?
Physics is perhaps one subject that requires both conceptual understanding and application-based learning. And NCERT books make for a great resource when it comes to understanding the complex theories in Physics. However, NCERT Physics books aren’t that great for numerical practice and advanced problem-solving. Therefore, it is essential for IIT JEE Mains aspirants to take help from additional resources and books such as “Concepts of Physics” by HC Verma.
Limitations of NCERT Books for JEE Mains
NCERT books will always remain crucial for JEE Mains preparation. However, there are some limitations associated with NCERT books that students should be wary of:
- Limited Numerical Practice: NCERT lacks in advanced numerical problems required for subjects like Physics and Maths that are essential for JEE Mains preparation.
- Explanation and Concept Clarity: Although NCERT provides a simpler explanation of many concepts, some topics need a more detailed explanation to help students relate the concepts with their practical application.
- Advanced Topics: Some advanced topics that are essential for JEE Mains and JEE Advanced exams are not covered in the NCERT syllabus.
- Lack of Variety in Problems: Most problem questions provided in NCERT books are basic in nature and do not reflect the complexity of actual JEE questions that students may face.
How to Make the Most of NCERT Books for JEE Mains
- Read Every Sentence: Pay attention to every sentence in the NCERT books, typically for Chemistry. Highlight important areas and take notes for faster revision.
- Focus on Examples and Exercises: Practice all the examples and exercises provided in the NCERT books. These are the foundation of many questions asked in the JEE Mains and JEE Advanced exams.
- Master Inorganic Chemistry: Extensively study the NCERT inorganic chemistry chapters. Memorize the periodic table’s trends, reactions, and key processes.
- Take help from Reference Books: Use NCERT as a base-level preparation, then augment with reference books for advanced concepts and practice.
- Practice Previous Year Papers: Many JEE Mains questions are taken directly from the NCERT books. Practice previous year’s papers to identify important topics and questions.
Is It Enough to Study NCERT for JEE?
While NCERT books are necessary for JEE preparation, focusing only on them may not be enough to pass JEE Mains. Here’s why:
- JEE Mains exam assesses both academic knowledge and advanced problem-solving.
- Subjects like Mathematics and Physics require extensive practice beyond NCERT.
- For inorganic Chemistry, NCERT could prove to be very useful, but additional practice is essential for Organic and Physical Chemistry.
Other Books to Add with NCERT for JEE Mains 2025
To better prepare for IIT JEE Mains, try reading the following books alongside NCERT books:
- Mathematics: RD Sharma, Cengage Mathematics, Arihant’s Skills in Mathematics series.
- Physics: Concepts of Physics by HC Verma, DC Pandey’s Understanding Physics series.
- Chemistry: Himanshu Pandey for Organic Chemistry, OP Tandon for Physical Chemistry, and JD Lee for Inorganic Chemistry (advanced preparation).
Conclusion
So, is NCERT enough for JEE Mains? Well, the answer depends on the choice of subject one wants to prepare for. While NCERT books are indispensable for building a strong foundation, especially in inorganic chemistry, aspirants need to also focus on additional resources for organic and physical chemistry, mathematics and physics to tackle advanced problems.
Students may construct a well-rounded study approach by complementing NCERT books with the additional reference books. This will help boost their chances of successfully clearing the JEE Mains exam.
FAQs on Is NCERT Enough for JEE Mains
NCERT books offer conceptual clarity, are consistent with the IIT JEE syllabus, and are reasonably priced. They are extremely good for preparing Chemistry, especially Inorganic Chemistry, as many questions are directly taken from NCERT.
While NCERT books are important for laying a solid foundation, they may not be adequate for passing the JEE Mains exams. Supplementary books, regular practice and focused approach is required, particularly in mathematics and physics.
You can add books like HC Verma for Physics, RD Sharma for Mathematics, and Himanshu Pandey for Organic Chemistry with NCERT.
For subjects like Inorganic Chemistry, studying only NCERT books is sufficient. However, for Mathematics, Physics, and organic and physical chemistry, additional books are required for advanced problem-solving.
