UGC NET Paper 1 Exam Analysis: June 23, 2026 (Shift 2) – Advanced Math and Dynamic Trends

Explore the detailed UGC NET Paper 1 analysis for the June 23, 2026, Shift 2 exam. From unexpected Trigonometry and Algebra questions to complex chronological sequences, learn what topics dominated this moderate-to-difficult shift.

The UGC NET Paper 1 examination held on June 23, 2026 (Shift 2) has been described by candidates as moderate to difficult, leaning towards the tougher side compared to the morning session. While traditional topics like Research and Teaching Aptitude remained central, the shift was defined by unexpected "advanced" mathematics and a heavy focus on application-based questions and chronological sequencing.

The "Advanced" Math & DI Surprise

For many, the most shocking element was the inclusion of topics traditionally considered outside the standard Paper 1 syllabus, such as Trigonometry and Algebra.

• Trigonometry: A "Match the Column" question featured trigonometric ratios like $\sin^2\theta + \cos^2\theta + \tan^2\theta$ and required knowledge of specific values for $\sin 30$, $\cos 30$, and $\sin 90$.
• Algebra: Candidates solved for the value of an expression where $a = \frac{\sqrt{5} + \sqrt{2}}{\sqrt{5} - \sqrt{2}}$.
• Number Properties: A problem stated the sum of two numbers is 20 and their product is 96, asking for their HCF (4), LCM (24), or the sum of their squares (208).
• Data Interpretation (DI): The DI was percentage and ratio-based, involving the total number of boys and girls across different colleges. While described as "easy," it was noted for being time-consuming.

Teaching and Research Aptitude

These units moved away from direct theory toward complex evaluative models and developmental stages.

• Bloom’s Taxonomy: Questions targeted the Affective domain (receiving, responding, valuing, organizing, characterization) and the Cognitive domain, noting that Knowledge and Comprehension are lower-level outcomes.
• Research Methodology:
  • The Deductive method was highlighted as a move from General to Specific (D-G-P: General to Particular).
  • Measurement Scales: Matching Nominal (Gender) and Ordinal (Socio-economic status) scales was a key task.
  • Ethics: Questions covered UGC Plagiarism rules and Type 1 Errors (rejecting a true null hypothesis).
• New Additions: Candidates faced questions on Sigmund Freud’s Psycho-sexual stages (Oral, Anal, Phallic, Latent, Genital) and MQ Wells’ stages of learning.

Logical Reasoning and Communication

This unit tested candidates on their ability to identify informal fallacies and historical cultural sequences.

• Fallacies:
  • Hasty Generalization: Illustrated by a scenario where a slight crime increase in New York led to the conclusion that all New Yorkers are criminals.
  • Strawman Fallacy: Misrepresenting an opponent's position to make it easier to attack.
• Western Logic: Identification of Moods and Figures, specifically defining the 2nd Figure and patterns like SP (Figure 1) and SS (Figure 3).
• Communication:
  • Vande Mataram Sequence: A recurring chronological question required arranging the national song's history: Composition (1875) → Publication in Anand Math (1882) → First performance at INC (1896) → Adoption as National Song (1950).
  • Models: The Shannon and Weaver (Mathematical Model) and Aristotle’s Model were prominently featured.
  • Halo Effect: A communication question regarding how one attractive trait can lead to an overall positive bias.

ICT and Environment

Units focused on procedural "real-world" steps and environmental policies.

• ICT Procedures: Candidates had to sequence steps for ATM cash withdrawals, online shopping/e-commerce purchases, and deleting an email.
• Full Forms: PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development) and SSD (Solid State Drive).
• Environment:
  • COP 26: Questions regarding India’s Panchamrut (revised NDCs).
  • Rio Summit (1992): Its alternative names and outcomes were tested.
  • Health: A "Match the Column" question linked Iodine deficiency to Goiter and Calcium deficiency to bone weakness.

Higher Education and Regulatory Bodies

• Ancient Universities: Identification of locations like Nalanda (Bihar), Taxila (Pakistan), and Vallabhi (Gujarat).
• Schemes & Regulatory Bodies: Matching functions and foundation dates for the UGC (1956) and AICTE (1945), alongside questions on SAKSHAM and PRAGATI schemes.
• Gyanvani: Identified as an IGNOU-run FM radio station established in 2001.

The  UGC NET Paper 1 Analysis (23rd June 2026, Shift 2) discusses a wide variety of questions, ranging from "advanced" mathematics to complex chronological sequences and psychological theories. The overall consensus among the sources is that this shift was moderate to difficult and highly dynamic.

Below are the specific questions and topics discussed, organised by unit:

Mathematical Reasoning and Aptitude

This unit was notably challenging due to the inclusion of topics like Trigonometry and Algebra, which are typically not part of the standard Paper 1 syllabus.

• Trigonometry: A match-the-column question involving values and formulas like $sin^2\theta + cos^2\theta + tan^2\theta$, $sin 30$, $cos 30$, and $sin 90$.
• Algebra: Calculating the value of an expression where $a = \frac{\sqrt{5} + \sqrt{2}}{\sqrt{5} - \sqrt{2}}$.
• Number Properties: A problem where the sum of two numbers is 20 and their product is 96, requiring the calculation of their HCF (4), LCM (24), or the sum of their squares (208).
• Sequencing: Arranging HCF and LCM values in decreasing order.
• Series and Equations: Questions on Quadratic Equations, Average, and number series following patterns like $n^n - 1$.

Teaching Aptitude

• Bloom’s Taxonomy: Differentiating between the Cognitive (Knowledge, Comprehension), Affective (Organizing, Characterizing), and Psychomotor domains.
• Theories: Stages of Sigmund Freud’s Psychosexual Theory (Oral, Anal, Phallic, Latency, Genital) and Mcquail’s stages of learning.
• Memory: Sub-divisions of Implicit Memory (Priming, Procedural, and Conditioning) and Episodeic Memory.
• Maxims of Teaching: Principles such as Known to Unknown, Simple to Complex, and Concrete to Abstract.
• Evaluation: Match the following for Formative, Summative, Placement, and Diagnostic evaluation, as well as NRT (Norm-Referenced) and CRT (Criterion-Referenced) testing.
• Instructional Facilities: Impact of Whiteboards, Textbooks, and Class Size on teaching effectiveness.

Research Aptitude

• Methodology: Steps and characteristics of Deductive Research (General to Particular/Specific).
• Ethics: UGC Plagiarism rules (specifically Level 1) and the UGC compulsory course on Research and Publication Ethics.
• Errors: Definitions of Type 1 (rejecting a true null hypothesis) and Type 2 errors.
• Sampling: Identifying Probability sampling (equal chance) versus Non-probability types like Snowball and Kota.
• Scales: Matching Nominal (Gender), Ordinal (Socio-economic status), Interval, and Ratio scales.
• Testing: Characteristics of T-tests, P-values, and identifying Chi-square as a non-parametric test.

Communication

• Models: Chronology and features of the Aristotle, Shannon-Weaver (Mathematical), Berlo (SMCR), Helical (Dance), Newcomb, and Intermediary (Katz) models.
• Sequencing: The chronological history of the Vande Mataram song (Composition, Publication, INC performance, Adoption as National Song).
• Barriers and Noise: Match the following for Physical, Semantic, Psychological, and Mechanical noise/barriers.
• Mass Media: Functions and agencies (e.g., News Decipher) of mass media.
• Psychology in Communication: The Halo Effect (one attractive trait creating a positive bias) and the definition of the word Genre.

Logical Reasoning

• Fallacies: Identifying Hasty Generalisation (labeling all New Yorkers as criminals), Strawman, Ad Hominem, and Red Herring fallacies.
• Western Logic: Defining the Second Figure and identifying the Third Figure (SS Pattern).
• Indian Logic: Kautilya’s book Arthashastra and Indian schools of logic.
• Venn Diagrams: Relationship-based diagrams for Dogs, Pets, and Cats.

ICT and Environment

• ICT Procedures: Step-by-step sequences for ATM cash withdrawal, deleting an email, and online shopping/e-commerce steps.
• Full Forms: SSD (Solid State Drive), PARAKH, and OSI.
• Environment Protocols: The Rio Earth Summit (1992) and COP 26 (Panchamrut/NDCs).
• Pollution and Health: Match the following for Iodine (Goiter) and Calcium deficiencies, as well as Radioactive elements and the body parts they target.
• Ecology: Sequence of Desert dryness and steps of Land degradation.

Higher Education

• Institutions: Locations and details for Taxila (Medicine/Chanakya), Nalanda (Buddhist studies), and Vallabhi.
• Schemes: Functions of Sakshem, Pragati, Gyanvani (IGNOU FM Radio), Shodh Sindhu, and Swayam.
• Commissions: Chronology of reports like Wood’s Despatch, Hunter Commission, Sargent Report, and Radhakrishnan Commission.
• Regulatory Bodies: Match the following for UGC (1956) and AICTE (1945) regarding their dates and functions.

UGC NET Paper 1 Exam Analysis: June 23, 2026 (Shift 1) – Key Topics and Recurring Trends

Get a comprehensive breakdown of the UGC NET Paper 1 analysis for June 23, 2026 (Shift 1). Learn about the exam difficulty, unit-wise questions, and essential chronological sequences to help you prepare for upcoming shifts.

The UGC NET Paper 1 examination held on June 23, 2026 (Shift 1) followed a predictable yet dynamic pattern, with candidates generally describing the difficulty level as Easy to Moderate. While the core concepts remained consistent with previous cycles, there was a heavy emphasis on chronological sequencing, Match the Following (MTF), and Multiple Selection Options (MSO). The following guide breaks down the shift’s key highlights and specific questions.

Teaching and Research Aptitude

These units focused on classic theories and practical data classification.

• Teaching Aptitude:
  • Bloom's Taxonomy: Questions featured the three domains—Cognitive, Affective, and Psychomotor. Specifically, the stages within the Affective domain (receiving, responding, etc.) were tested.
  • Educational Models: Candidates encountered questions on John Dewey’s pragmatism and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, ranging from physiological to self-actualisation.
  • PM POSHAN: The alternative name for the Mid-Day Meal scheme (PM POSHAN) was a direct question.
• Research Aptitude:
  • Measurement Scales: The NOIR (Nominal, Ordinal, Interval, Ratio) scales appeared in several contexts.
  • Reasoning Types: Both Inductive and Deductive research processes were tested, including sequencing the steps of a deductive study.
  • Testing & Ethics: Topics included T-tests, P-values, and plagiarism levels (specifically Level 1, covering 10%–40% similarity).

Logical Reasoning and Communication

Logical reasoning moved toward Western and Indian logic applications, while communication focused on models and historical sequences.

• Logical Reasoning:
  • Square of Opposition: This was a high-weightage topic, specifically focusing on contrary and sub-contrary relationships.
  • Fallacies: New additions included Hasty Generalisation (drawing conclusions from a small sample size) and Strawman fallacies.
  • Moods and Figures: Questions required identifying the SP pattern (Figure 1) and SS pattern (Figure 3).
• Communication:
  • Shannon-Weaver Model: Also known as the Mathematical Model of Communication (1948), its sequence (Sender → Encoder → Channel/Noise → Decoder → Receiver) was a key question.
  • Vande Mataram Sequence: A unique chronological question required placing events related to the national song in order (Composition → Publication in Anand Math → First Performance at INC → Adoption as National Song).

ICT, Environment, and Higher Education

These units tested both general knowledge and procedural sequences.

Higher Education: Ancient Universities and Locations

University	Location	Key Fact
Nalanda	Bihar	Ancient centre for Buddhist studies.
Taxila	Pakistan (Punjab Province)	Associated with Chanakya/Kautilya.
Vikramshila	Bihar	Founded by King Dharmapala.
Vallabhi	Gujarat	Founded by the Maitraka Dynasty.
Jagaddala	Bangladesh (Rajshahi)	Founded by King Ramapala.

• Higher Education Chronology: Candidates had to sequence the Wood’s Despatch (1854), Hunter Commission (1882), Sargent Report (1944), and Radhakrishnan Commission (1948).
• ICT:
  • Full Forms: Essential abbreviations included JPEG (Joint Photographic Expert Group) and SSD (Solid State Drive).
  • Sequences: Real-world procedures were tested, such as the steps for ATM cash withdrawal, online shopping/cart management, and QR code payments.
  • Number Systems: Conversions between Hexadecimal and Decimal were reported.
• People, Development, and Environment:
  • Gasses: Match-the-following questions involved SO2, NO2, and CO2.
  • SDG Goals: Specific focus on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Mathematical Reasoning and Data Interpretation

• Mathematical Topics: Questions covered Simple and Compound Interest (SI/CI), Averages, and Successive Discounts (using the AB formula).
• Data Interpretation (DI): The DI section was percentage-based and generally considered easy, although somewhat time-consuming.
• Trigonometry Surprise: For the first time, basic trigonometric values (sin, cos, tan) appeared, requiring candidates to know values for 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°.

Here we are providing a detailed breakdown of the questions and topics featured in the UGC NET Paper 1 exam held on 23 June 2026. The exam is generally described as easy to moderate, with a heavy emphasis on chronological sequencing, match-the-following formats, and procedural steps.

1. Teaching and Research Aptitude

• Bloom's Taxonomy: Identification of the three domains (Cognitive, Affective, Psychomotor) and specific stages within the Affective domain, such as receiving and valuing.
• Research Methodology: Questions on NOIR measurement scales (Nominal, Ordinal, Interval, Ratio), Inductive vs. Deductive research processes, and the specific steps to arrange a deductive study.
• Sampling: Identifying and differentiating between probability (Stratified, Simple Random) and non-probability sampling (Snowball, Purposive).
• Hypothesis Testing: Definitions and applications of T-tests, P-values, significance levels, and identifying the Chi-square test as non-parametric.
• Learning Theories: John Dewey’s pragmatism, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, and Gagné's hierarchy.
• Evaluation Systems: Differentiating between Formative (continuous feedback) and Summative evaluation.
• Plagiarism: Specific focus on Level 1 plagiarism, which covers 10% to 40% similarity.

2. Logical Reasoning and Communication

• Square of Opposition: Extensive questioning on Contrary, Sub-contrary, and Contradictory relationships.
• Moods and Figures: Identifying the SP pattern (Figure 1) and SS pattern (Figure 3).
• Fallacies: Discussion of the Hasty Generalization (drawing conclusions from small samples), Red Herring, and Strawman fallacies.
• Communication Models: The Shannon and Weaver model (Mathematical Model) and its sequence: Sender → Encoder → Channel/Noise → Decoder → Receiver.
• Vande Mataram: A chronological sequencing question involving its composition (1875), inclusion in the novel Anand Math (1882), first performance at INC (1896), and adoption as the National Song (1950).
• Communication Channels: Distinguishing between synchronous and asynchronous channels and questions on OTT platforms like Hotstar.

3. Mathematical Reasoning and Data Interpretation

• Trigonometry: A surprise appearance of questions requiring the knowledge of values for sin, cos, and tan at 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°.
• Data Interpretation (DI): Percentage-based tables described as easy but time-consuming.
• Problem Types: Questions on Successive Discounts, Simple and Compound Interest (SI/CI), Average, and Ratio & Proportion.
• Number Properties: Finding the next number in a series (e.g., $n^n - 1$) and problems involving LCM and HCF where the sum of two numbers is 20.

4. ICT and Environment

• Procedural Sequences: Arranging steps for real-world tasks like ATM cash withdrawal, online shopping/cart management, and QR code payments.
• Full Forms: Essential abbreviations including JPEG (Joint Photographic Expert Group) and SSD (Solid State Drive).
• Chronology of Technology: Sequencing the launch or popularity of platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Telegram.
• Environmental Protocols: Questions on the Kyoto Protocol and the seven greenhouse gases it monitors (e.g., CO2, Methane, SO2, NO2).
• Sustainable Development: Identification and matching of the 17 SDG and MDG goals.

5. Higher Education

• Ancient Universities: Matching universities like Nalanda (Bihar), Taxila (Pakistan), Vikramshila (Bihar), and Vallabhi (Gujarat) to their locations and founders.
• Historical Commissions: Chronological ordering of the Wood’s Despatch (1854), Hunter Commission (1882), Sargent Report (1944), and Radhakrishnan Commission (1948).
• Regulatory Bodies: Questions on UGC, AICTE, and RUSA.
• Constitutional Articles: Matching Articles 29 and 30 (related to education and minority rights).

UGC NET Paper 1 Analysis 2026: In-Depth Review of 22 June Shift 2

 Master your preparation with our comprehensive analysis of the UGC NET Paper 1 (22 June Shift 2). Explore key topics like Bloom's Taxonomy, successive discounts, and ICT trends.

The UGC NET Paper 1 examination held on 22 June 2026 (Shift 2) maintained a consistent difficulty level, with many candidates describing it as Easy to Moderate. While the questions remained rooted in the standard syllabus, NTA introduced several dynamic elements, including chronological sequencing and multi-selection options, to test deeper conceptual clarity. Aspirants noted that topics from the morning shift were frequently mirrored, emphasizing the importance of tracking daily exam trends.

Teaching Aptitude and Evaluation Systems

A major highlight of this shift was Bloom's Taxonomy, which appeared across multiple contexts. Questions focused on distinguishing between the Cognitive (thought-based), Affective (emotion-based), and Psycho-motor (physical-action) domains.

• Affective Domain: Key categories identified included receiving, responding, valuing, organizing, and characterization.
• Psycho-motor Domain: This focuses on physical skills like coordination, imitation, and naturalization.
• Evaluation Types: Candidates were tested on Formative Evaluation, which occurs during class to provide continuous feedback, versus Summative Evaluation, which provides final grades at the end of a term.

Learning theories also saw a dedicated Match-the-Column section, linking Constructivism to Bruner, Behaviorism to B.F. Skinner, and Social Learning to Albert Bandura.

Research Methodology and Variables

Research Aptitude remained a high-weightage unit with a focus on technical definitions.

• Variable Types: Questions required distinguishing between Independent variables (manipulated), Dependent variables (outcomes), and Intervening variables that stand between the two.
• Error Types: The "Type 1" error was defined as rejecting a true null hypothesis, while "Type 2" involves accepting a false one.
• Testing: Candidates had to identify Parametric tests (like T-tests and Z-tests) versus Non-parametric tests (such as the Chi-square test).

Mathematical Reasoning and Data Interpretation

The successive discount formula ($x + y - xy/100$) was a recurring theme, with one specific question involving three back-to-back discounts of 30%. Mathematical problems also touched on profit and loss, with scenarios involving the sale of wheat at varying profit/loss margins. Data Interpretation (DI) was primarily percentage and ratio-based; while some found it calculative, prepared candidates were able to solve it within 5 to 6 minutes.

Logical Reasoning and Communication

In Logical Reasoning, the Mood and Figure of syllogisms were prominent. Aspirants had to identify patterns like Figure 1 (SP pattern) or Figure 3 (SS pattern) based on the position of the middle term. The Square of Opposition (A, E, I, O propositions) also appeared, requiring candidates to identify contrary or contradictory relationships.

Communication focused on barriers, including Semantic (language-based), Physical (environment-based), and Status-related obstacles. The linear model of communication was highlighted through its sequence: Encoder → Message → Medium → Noise → Decoder.

ICT, Environment, and Higher Education

• ICT: A simple but essential question asked for the full form of SSD (Solid State Drive), noting its speed advantages over the traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive).
• Environment: The Kyoto Protocol was featured, specifically regarding the seven greenhouse gases it monitors, such as Carbon Dioxide and Methane. El Niño was also mentioned as a current affair topic due to its impact on the Indian monsoon.
• Higher Education: Historical regulatory bodies were tested chronologically, including AICTE (1945), UGC (1956), and NIRF (2015). Ancient universities like Taxila (medicine) and Ujjain (astronomy) also made an appearance.

These questions covered technical definitions, mathematical problems, and chronological sequencing across all major units.

Teaching Aptitude and Evaluation

• Bloom's Taxonomy: Identification of the domain focusing on physical skills and coordination (Psychomotor).
• Affective Domain: Identifying categories like receiving, responding, valuing, organizing, and characterization.
• Learning Theories: A match-the-column question involving Constructivism (Bruner), Behaviorism (Skinner), Social Learning (Bandura), and Cognitive Development (Piaget).
• Evaluation Types: Identifying which evaluation provides feedback to both students and teachers (Formative).
• Simulation: Characteristics of simulated or simulation-based learning as a learner-centric method.
• Transactional Analysis: Questions related to teaching aptitude theories.

Research Aptitude

• Variables: Distinguishing between Independent, Dependent, Intervening, and Confounding (spurious) variables.
• Hypothesis Types: Questions on Descriptive, Null, Explanatory, and Alternative hypotheses.
• Hypothesis Testing Steps: Arranging the order of steps: setting Null/Alternative hypotheses, significance level, data collection, statistical testing, and the decision to accept or reject.
• Errors: Matching Type 1 (Alpha) and Type 2 (Beta) errors to their definitions.
• Research Types: Ordering research by emphasis on practical action: Pure, Applied, Policy, and Action research.
• Parametric vs. Non-Parametric: Identifying that the Chi-square test is non-parametric.
• Sampling: Identifying types of probability sampling (Simple Random, Stratified) versus non-probability sampling (Snowball).

Logical Reasoning

• Mood and Figure: Determining the mood of sets of categorical propositions (e.g., AII, EOO, AAA, III).
• Figure Patterns: Identifying the SP pattern as Figure 1 and the SS pattern as Figure 3.
• Square of Opposition: Identifying the contrary relationship (Universal Affirmative vs. Universal Negative).
• Formal Logic: Sequencing the elements of a proposition: Quantifier, Quality, Subject, Predicate, and Copula.
• Connotation/Denotation: Arranging terms from specific to general: Member, Family, Community, Society, and Country.
• Fallacies: Questions regarding Hetvabhasa and the Red Herring fallacy.

Mathematical Reasoning and Data Interpretation

• Successive Discount: Calculating net discounts for sequences like 30%, 30%, and 30% or 10%, 20%, and 30%.
• Profit and Loss: A problem involving 80kg of wheat sold in two parts—20kg at a 20% profit and the remainder at a 10% loss—to find the overall result.
• Number Series: A series following the pattern of $n^n - 1$, specifically: 0, 3, 26, 255, with the next number being 3124.
• Data Interpretation: Percentage and ratio-based tables requiring calculations of differences and maximum improvements over previous years.

ICT and Communication

• Full Forms: SSD (Solid State Drive) and OSI (Open System Interconnection).
• Communication Model: Sequencing the linear model: Encoder → Message → Medium → Noise → Decoder.
• Communication Barriers: Matching Semantic, Physical, Status, and Personal barriers to their descriptions.
• Mass Media: Identifying which option is NOT a function of mass media (Isolation).
• Firewalls: Functions regarding monitoring and controlling data traffic.

Environment and Higher Education

• Environmental Protocols: Chronological arrangement of the Rio Earth Summit (1992), Kyoto Protocol (1997), and Paris Agreement (2015).
• Kyoto Protocol Gases: Identifying the seven greenhouse gases included, such as CO2 and Methane.
• El Niño: Its effect on the weakening of the Indian monsoon.
• Ancient Universities: Matching Taxila (Medicine), Ujjain (Astronomy), Vikramshila (Tantric), and Manyakheta (Dvaita).
• Regulatory Bodies: Chronology of AICTE (1945), UGC (1956), NBA (1994), and NIRF (2015).
• NEP 2020: Features such as the 6% GDP allocation, 50% GER goal by 2035, and the Gender Inclusion Fund.