The KCET 2026 Mathematics paper plays a decisive role for students aiming for engineering and other mathematics-based professional courses in Karnataka. Since the syllabus is strictly aligned with the 1st PUC and 2nd PUC Mathematics curriculum, a smart, weightage-driven preparation strategy can significantly boost scores.
This guide provides a topic-wise analysis of the KCET 2026 Maths syllabus, expected weightage based on previous KCET trends, and a clear preparation strategy for each section.
KCET 2026 Maths Paper Overview
- Mode of exam: Offline (pen-and-paper)
- Total questions: 60 MCQs
- Total marks: 60
- Duration: 80 minutes
- Marking scheme: +1 for each correct answer, no negative marking
- Syllabus split:
- 2nd PUC topics: ~45 questions
- 1st PUC topics: ~15 questions
Speed, accuracy, and formula clarity are critical for success in KCET Mathematics.
Related: Practice for KCET with previous year question papers.
High-Weightage Chapters in KCET 2026 Maths (4–6 Questions)
These chapters are highly scoring and must be prepared thoroughly.
| Chapter | Expected Questions | Expected Marks | Key Focus Areas | Strategy |
| Relations and Functions | 4–6 | 4–6 | Types of relations, functions, domain & range | Revise definitions and standard problems |
| Determinants | 3–4 | 3–4 | Properties, minors, cofactors, area problems | Practice standard question types |
| Continuity and Differentiability | 4–6 | 4–6 | Limits, continuity, derivatives | Focus on concepts and formula application |
| Application of Derivatives | 4–6 | 4–6 | Increasing/decreasing functions, maxima & minima | Practice graph-based and application problems |
| Integrals | 4–6 | 4–6 | Indefinite & definite integrals, methods | Master standard integration techniques |
| Three Dimensional Geometry | 4–5 | 4–5 | Direction ratios, shortest distance | Memorise formulas and practice numericals |
| Probability | 3–4 | 3–4 | Conditional probability, Bayes’ theorem | Practice PYQs repeatedly |
Medium-Weightage Chapters in KCET 2026 Maths (2–3 Questions)
These chapters strengthen overall scoring potential when prepared consistently.
| Chapter | Expected Questions | Expected Marks | Key Focus Areas | Strategy |
| Inverse Trigonometric Functions | 2–3 | 2–3 | Properties and standard values | Memorise formulas and identities |
| Matrices | 2–3 | 2–3 | Types, inverse, properties | Practice short MCQs |
| Application of Integrals | 2–3 | 2–3 | Area under curves | Focus on diagrams and limits |
| Differential Equations | 2–3 | 2–3 | Variable separable, linear DE | Practice standard formats |
| Vectors | 2–3 | 2–3 | Dot & cross product | Formula-based practice |
| Trigonometry | 1–2 | 1–2 | Identities and equations | Use as support for calculus |
Low-Weightage Chapters in KCET 2026 Maths (1 Question)
Though fewer in number, these chapters are easy scoring with limited effort.
| Chapter | Expected Questions | Expected Marks | Key Focus Areas |
| Sets | 1 | 1 | Venn diagrams, basic operations |
| Complex Numbers | 1 | 1 | Algebraic & polar form |
| Linear Inequalities | 1 | 1 | Graphical solutions |
| Permutations & Combinations | 1 | 1 | Fundamental counting principles |
| Binomial Theorem | 1 | 1 | General term and middle term |
| Sequences and Series | 1 | 1 | AP, GP, HP relations |
| Straight Lines & Conic Sections | 1 | 1 | Formula-based problems |
| Statistics | 1 | 1 | Mean, variance, standard deviation |
| Linear Programming | 1 | 1 | Graphical method |
Chapter Priority Ranking for KCET 2026 Mathematics
To optimize preparation time, students should prioritise chapters based on weightage and scoring potential.
Must-Do Chapters (High Priority)
These chapters together contribute a large portion of the KCET Maths paper and must be prepared thoroughly.
- Relations and Functions
- Continuity and Differentiability
- Application of Derivatives
- Integrals
- Three Dimensional Geometry
- Probability
Good-to-Do Chapters (Medium Priority)
These chapters strengthen overall score and should be revised well after completing must-do topics.
- Determinants
- Matrices
- Inverse Trigonometric Functions
- Application of Integrals
- Differential Equations
- Vectors
- Trigonometry
Optional Chapters (Low Priority)
These chapters usually carry one question each and can be covered quickly for bonus marks.
- Sets
- Complex Numbers
- Linear Inequalities
- Permutations and Combinations
- Binomial Theorem
- Sequences and Series
- Straight Lines and Conic Sections
- Statistics
- Linear Programming
KCET 2026 Maths Preparation Strategy
Phase 1: Concept Building (June – September)
- Complete all high-weightage chapters first
- Focus on understanding formulas and derivations
- Solve basic textbook problems
Phase 2: Practice & Accuracy (October – December)
- Solve chapter-wise previous year KCET questions
- Take topic-wise mock tests
- Maintain an error notebook
Phase 3: Speed Enhancement (January – February)
- Attempt full-length Maths mock tests
- Practice solving 60 questions within 80 minutes
- Improve calculation speed and accuracy
Phase 4: Final Revision (March – April)
- Revise formulas daily
- Focus on high- and medium-weightage chapters
- Avoid learning new topics
Last 30 Days Revision Plan for KCET 2026 Mathematics
This 30-day plan is designed to maximise revision efficiency, improve speed, and strengthen accuracy just before the KCET 2026 exam.
Days 1–7: High-Weightage Chapter Revision
- Revise Relations and Functions, Determinants, Continuity and Differentiability
- Focus on Applications of Derivatives and Integrals
- Solve previous year KCET questions from these chapters
- Revise formulas daily and note common mistakes
Days 8–14: Remaining High & Medium-Weightage Chapters
- Cover Three Dimensional Geometry and Probability
- Revise Matrices, Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Vectors, and Differential Equations
- Attempt 2–3 sectional mock tests
- Improve speed without compromising accuracy
Days 15–21: Low-Weightage Chapters + Full-Length Tests
- Revise Sets, Complex Numbers, Linear Inequalities, and Linear Programming
- Revise Sequences and Series, Binomial Theorem, Statistics, and Conic Sections
- Attempt at least 3 full-length KCET Maths mock tests
- Analyse mistakes and revise weak areas
Days 22–26: Intensive Practice & Error Correction
- Focus on previously identified weak chapters
- Redo incorrect questions from mock tests
- Revise formula sheets multiple times a day
- Practice mental calculations to save time
Days 27–30: Final Polishing
- Light revision of formulas and standard questions
- Avoid learning new topics
- Attempt one final mock test only if confident
- Ensure exam-day readiness and mental calm
Recommended Study Resources for KCET 2026 Maths
- NCERT Mathematics textbooks (1st & 2nd PUC)
- Previous year KCET question papers
- Chapter-wise MCQ practice books aligned to KCET
- Short formula notes for daily revision
Last 7 Days Ultra-Revision Plan for KCET 2026 Mathematics
This 7-day plan is meant for quick revision, confidence building, and exam readiness just before KCET 2026.
Day 1: Calculus Core Revision
- Revise Continuity and Differentiability
- Revise Application of Derivatives
- Practice standard MCQs and PYQs
Day 2: Integral Calculus Focus
- Revise Indefinite and Definite Integrals
- Practice common integration methods
- Solve 30–40 MCQs
Day 3: Algebra Power Day
- Revise Matrices, Determinants, and Relations & Functions
- Practice formula-based questions
- Focus on speed and accuracy
Day 4: Geometry & Vectors
- Revise Three Dimensional Geometry and Vectors
- Practice distance, direction ratios, and vector operations
Day 5: Probability & Differential Equations
- Revise Probability concepts and formulas
- Practice Differential Equation problems
- Solve mixed MCQs
Day 6: Low-Weightage Chapter Sweep
- Quick revision of Sets, Complex Numbers, Linear Programming, Statistics
- Focus only on formulas and standard questions
Day 7: Final Revision & Mental Prep
- Revise formula sheets
- Avoid heavy problem-solving
- Relax, sleep well, and stay confident
Frequently Asked Questions – KCET 2026 Mathematics
Q1: Is KCET Maths based strictly on the PUC syllabus?
Yes. The KCET 2026 Mathematics paper is fully based on the Karnataka 1st and 2nd PUC syllabus. NCERT textbooks should be treated as the primary source.
Q2: How many questions come from 2nd PUC Maths in KCET?
On average, around 45 out of 60 questions are asked from 2nd PUC topics, making them highly important for scoring.
Q3: Is KCET Maths easier than JEE Maths?
Yes. KCET Maths is generally easier than JEE Maths, as it focuses more on formula-based and syllabus-aligned questions rather than advanced problem-solving.
Q4: What is a safe score in KCET 2026 Maths?
A score of 45–50 marks or above is considered very competitive and can significantly improve overall KCET rank.
Q5: How important are previous year question papers for KCET Maths?
Previous year KCET question papers are extremely important as many questions follow similar patterns and concepts.
Q6: Is there negative marking in KCET Maths?
No. There is no negative marking in the KCET Mathematics paper, so students should attempt all questions.
Final Preparation Tips for KCET 2026 Mathematics
- Always attempt easy and familiar questions first in the exam
- Do not spend excessive time on a single difficult question
- Accuracy is more important than attempting all questions
- Regular revision is the key to retaining formulas
With a disciplined, topic-wise approach and consistent practice, scoring 50+ marks in KCET 2026 Mathematics is achievable. Focus on high-weightage chapters, practice PYQs, and follow a structured revision plan to maximise your performance.
Ankit Kumar Srivastava
Senior Mathematics Faculty at Deeksha Learning with
B.E. in Mechanical Engineering [PESIT BSC] and more than 5 years
of experience in IMO, JEE, KCET
Catering to the distinct learning needs of students by offering individualized support and guidance.
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