IIT JAM Physics Syllabus (PH) – Complete Topic-wise Guide
A complete, unit-wise breakdown of the IIT JAM Physics syllabus with
exam-focused clarity, high-yield topic hints, and a preparation-friendly structure
by Pravegaa Education.
Topic-wise • Revision-friendly • Ideal for 2027–2028 aspirants • PYQ-oriented
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The IIT JAM Physics exam rewards students who prepare the syllabus in “units”,
not in random chapters. Most aspirants lose marks because they underestimate how interconnected
the syllabus is: Mathematical Methods → Mechanics → E&M → Quantum → Solid State → Thermal.
This page gives you a structured IIT JAM Physics syllabus so you can plan your
preparation professionally and avoid wasting time on low-relevance content.
What IIT JAM Physics Tests
- Conceptual clarity (core undergraduate Physics)
- Problem-solving speed (MCQ + MSQ + NAT)
- Mathematical fluency (calculus, linear algebra, differential equations)
- Interlinking of topics (e.g., QM + Math Methods + Thermal)
IIT JAM Physics Syllabus – Topic-wise
Below is a unit-wise breakdown aligned with typical IIT JAM PH syllabus coverage and PYQ patterns.
1. Mathematical Methods
- Calculus (single & multivariable), partial derivatives
- Vector algebra and vector calculus
- Linear algebra: matrices, eigenvalues, eigenvectors
- Ordinary differential equations
- Complex numbers and complex functions (basics)
- Series expansions, basic special functions (as needed)
High yield: calculus + matrices/eigenvalues + vector calculus appear repeatedly across units.
2. Mechanics & General Physics
- Kinematics and Newton’s laws
- Work-energy, momentum, collisions
- Rotational motion, rigid body dynamics
- Oscillations: SHM, damped and driven systems
- Gravitation, central force motion (basics)
- Reference frames, constraints (basic)
3. Electricity & Magnetism
- Electrostatics: field, potential, Gauss law
- Capacitance, dielectrics
- DC circuits, Kirchhoff laws
- Magnetostatics: Biot–Savart, Ampere law
- Electromagnetic induction, AC circuits (basics)
- Maxwell equations (conceptual level), EM waves (basics)
4. Waves & Optics
- Wave equation and wave propagation
- Superposition, interference
- Diffraction (single slit, grating – basics)
- Polarization
- Geometrical optics: reflection, refraction, lenses (basics)
5. Thermal Physics & Statistical Mechanics
- Thermodynamic laws and thermodynamic potentials
- Heat engines, entropy, Maxwell relations (basic)
- Kinetic theory of gases
- Probability distributions (basic)
- Statistical ensembles (conceptual + simple calculations)
- MB, BE, FD statistics (introductory)
6. Modern Physics
- Photoelectric effect, Compton effect, Bohr model
- Atomic spectra and basic quantum ideas
- Radioactivity and nuclear reactions (basics)
- Semiconductor basics and devices (intro)
7. Quantum Mechanics
- Wave function, operators, expectation values
- Schrödinger equation (1D), bound states
- Particle in a box, harmonic oscillator (basic)
- Angular momentum (intro), spin (basic)
- Approximation ideas (conceptual)
High yield: standard models + operator algebra + quick calculations for NAT.
8. Solid State / Condensed Matter (Basics)
- Crystal structure, Miller indices (basic)
- Reciprocal lattice (intro)
- Free electron model (basic)
- Band theory (conceptual), semiconductors
- Magnetism and superconductivity (intro)
9. Electronics (Basic)
- Diodes, transistors (conceptual + simple circuits)
- Rectifiers, filters (basics)
- Op-amp basics (if covered in your prep plan)
- Digital basics: logic gates (intro level)
Want a clean offline reference for revision?
Relative Importance (Based on PYQ Trends)
| Unit | Importance |
|---|---|
| Mathematical Methods | Very High |
| Mechanics | High |
| Electricity & Magnetism | High |
| Quantum Mechanics | High |
| Thermal & Statistical | Moderate |
| Waves & Optics | Moderate |
| Solid State + Electronics | Moderate |
| Modern Physics | Moderate |
Note: Importance varies year to year. Use this table as a planning guide, not a strict guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions (IIT JAM Physics)
Is this the official IIT JAM Physics syllabus?
This page presents a topic-wise structure aligned with the typical IIT JAM PH syllabus coverage and PYQ trends. Always cross-check with the official JAM brochure for the final word.
Which unit is most important for IIT JAM Physics?
Mathematical Methods is the most consistently high-impact unit because it supports Mechanics, E&M, Quantum and Thermal problems.
How should I prepare IIT JAM Physics using the syllabus?
Prepare unit-wise, solve PYQs in blocks, and follow a test–analysis–revision cycle. Prioritize high-weightage units first and keep weekly revision fixed.
Can I prepare for IIT JAM Physics alongside graduation?
Yes. With a structured routine and weekend-focused plan, many students prepare alongside BSc/MSc semesters without taking a drop year.
Prepare IIT JAM Physics with Expert Guidance
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