Let’s be honest here, Physics is one of those subjects that makes many JAMB candidates nervous. The formulas, the laws, the calculations… sometimes it feels like you’re trying to decode alien language. But here’s the good news: Physics is not as hard as it seems. In fact, once you understand the basics and know exactly what JAMB expects from you, Physics can quickly become one of your highest-scoring subjects.
And that’s where the JAMB syllabus for Physics 2026 comes in. Think of the syllabus as your map. Without it, you’d be wandering around in the dark, wasting time on topics JAMB may never ask. With it, you’re laser-focused, you know what to study, what to skip, and how to use your time wisely.
In this article, we’re going to walk through some practical tips you won’t find anywhere else. From the best textbooks that will actually make Physics easier, to exam day strategies that can save you precious minutes, and finally to answers to burning FAQs every candidate secretly asks.
So, if you’ve ever wondered “How do I really prepare for Physics in JAMB 2026 without confusing myself?” stay with me, because this guide is for you.
Areas of Concentration in JAMB Physics 2026
The JAMB Syllabus for Physics 2026 is designed to test not just your ability to memorize formulas but your real understanding of concepts and their applications in solving problems. Below is the breakdown of major topics you must cover:
Dimensions, units, errors, and significant figures.
Expect questions on accuracy, precision, and conversions.
2. Motion
Scalars and vectors, linear motion, equations of motion.
Graphs of motion are usually hot topics.
3. Gravitational Field
Newton’s law of gravitation, acceleration due to gravity.
Satellites, escape velocity, and planetary motion.
4. Equilibrium of Forces
Resolution of forces, conditions of equilibrium, levers, and moments.
Very common in JAMB, always expect at least one tricky question here.
Work-energy theorem, power efficiency.
Mechanical advantage in machines.
6. Heat Energy
Expansion of solids, liquids, gases.
Gas laws, specific heat capacity, latent heat.
7. Waves
Types of waves, wave properties, reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference.
Practical examples like echo, musical instruments, and sound waves are favorites.
8. Optics
Reflection and refraction at plane and curved surfaces.
Lenses, mirrors, optical instruments (microscope, telescope, periscope, etc.).
9. Electricity
Ohm’s law, resistors in series and parallel, electrical power.
Electrostatics, capacitors, and electromagnetism.
10. Modern Physics
Radioactivity, atomic structure, energy quantization.
Photoelectric effect, X-rays.
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JAMB’s Pattern of Setting Physics Questions
Now that you know the syllabus, let’s talk about how JAMB actually sets Physics questions. This is where many students fail, not because they didn’t study, but because they didn’t understand the examiners’ style.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. Multiple-Choice Questions Only
Physics questions in JAMB are purely multiple-choice, usually 40–50 questions depending on your subject combination. Each question carries equal marks.
2. Balance of Theory and Calculations
Roughly 50% of questions are based on theory: definitions, laws, principles, and conceptual understanding.
The other 50% are mostly calculations: equations of motion, work-energy, electricity, heat, and so on.
3. Expect Tricky Options
JAMB loves distractors, answers that look very close. For example, a wrongly rounded-off value or a unit mistake. If you don’t pay attention to units and approximations, you can easily miss correct answers.
4. Graphs and Diagrams Appear Often
Motion graphs, lens diagrams, circuit diagrams, and wave sketches.
Don’t just memorize, practice drawing and interpreting them.
5. Past Questions Repeat
This cannot be overemphasized. At least 30–40% of JAMB Physics questions are recycled from previous years. Practicing past questions is like having a cheat code.
6. Time Factor
Physics calculations can eat up time if you’re not careful. JAMB expects you to solve quickly, so train yourself to simplify calculations without unnecessary steps.
Recommended Physics Textbooks for JAMB 2026
The wrong textbook can make Physics feel like punishment. Some books are filled with jargon and explanations that only confuse you more.
Here are some textbooks I strongly recommend if you want to master Physics for JAMB 2026:
1. New School Physics by M. W. Anyakoha
This book is like the “Bible” of JAMB Physics. It explains concepts in simple English and gives tons of solved examples.
2. Essential Physics for Senior Secondary Schools by L. A. Popoola
Straight to the point. Great for brushing up on formulas and quick revision.
3. Comprehensive Physics for Senior Secondary Schools by Ndukwe
Excellent for practice questions. It aligns very well with JAMB’s question style.
4. University Physics by Young & Freedman (for advanced learners)
If you want to go beyond the basics and understand Physics at a deeper level, this is gold. Not compulsory, but very helpful.
5. Past JAMB Questions on Physics (10 years minimum)
JAMB loves recycling questions. Sometimes they repeat a question word-for-word. Practicing past questions is like looking into JAMB’s brain.
Exam Day Strategy for Physics in JAMB 2026
Okay, so you’ve studied, practiced, and revised. Now it’s the big day. The truth is, many students lose marks in Physics not because they didn’t study enough, but because they didn’t manage the exam well. Here are some strategies to make exam day smoother:
1. Start with the Easy Questions First
Don’t dive head-first into the hardest calculation. Scan through the paper, pick the questions you can answer in 30 seconds, and lock them down. This builds confidence.
2. Watch Out for Trick Questions
JAMB loves testing your attention to detail. For example, they may ask for “SI Unit of Energy” but put Joule, Newton, and Watt in the options. If you’re not calm, you’ll mix them up.
3. Don’t Ignore Units
Many Physics questions are designed to trick students who forget to check units. Always confirm if values are in meters, seconds, or hours before solving.
4. Manage Your Time Wisely
You’ll have 2 hours for 180 questions (for all subjects). That’s less than a minute per question. Don’t waste 5 minutes on one tough calculation, skip it, and come back later if time allows.
5. Use Estimation to Eliminate Wrong Options
Sometimes, even without solving fully, you can guess the right answer by estimating. For instance, if what you calculated is giving around 20 m/s, any option like 2000 m/s is wrong automatically.
6. Stay Calm, Stay Focused
Panic is the real enemy in Physics. If your brain freezes, take a deep breath, leave that particular question, and come back later.
Conclusion
JAMB Syllabus for Physics 2026 doesn’t have to be scary. Once you master the breakdown of the syllabus and understand the pattern of how the questions are, you’re already at the road to getting your high score. Combine this knowledge with steady practice, time management, and the right textbooks, and you will find out that Physics cannot just be passed, you can get a very high score.
So, are you ready to face JAMB 2026 Physics with confidence and prove to yourself that Physics is not as scary as everyone say it is?