MHT CET 2026 April 16 PCM Exam Live: Shift 1 Paper Analysis & Shift 2 Preparation

The April 16 Shift 1 exam was moderate but lengthy, with Mathematics being the most challenging section. Candidates for Shift 2 must reach the center by 1:45 PM and carry their hall tickets to ensure entry.

The MHT CET 2026 PCM (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics) exams are in full swing, and today, April 16, marks another crucial day for thousands of engineering aspirants across Maharashtra.

As Shift 1 concluded at 12:00 PM, students have begun sharing their first impressions, giving us a clear picture of the difficulty level and the types of questions being asked this year.

For those appearing in Shift 2 or the upcoming days, here is the complete breakdown of the morning session and essential guidelines for the afternoon slot.

Shift 1 Paper Analysis: Subject-Wise Difficulty

Based on initial feedback from students and exam experts, the April 16 Shift 1 paper was “Moderate” overall. While the concepts were largely within the Maharashtra State Board syllabus, time management remained the biggest hurdle for many.

1. Mathematics: Lengthy and Calculative

Continuing the trend from previous days, Mathematics was the most time-consuming section. While the questions weren’t necessarily “tough” in terms of logic, they required lengthy calculations.

• Key Topics: Vectors and 3D Geometry had significant weightage. Calculus (Integration and Differentiation) also saw a high number of questions.

• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (due to length).

2. Physics: Formula-Based but Tricky

Physics was balanced but required a strong grasp of formulas. Students reported that questions were mostly direct applications, though some numericals in Rotational Motion and Electrostatics were tricky.

• Key Topics: Kinetic Theory of Gases, Oscillations, and Magnetic Effects of Electric Current.

• Difficulty: Moderate.

3. Chemistry: The Scoring Section

Chemistry remains the favorite for most students. This shift followed the NCERT and State Board textbooks closely. Organic Chemistry was dominant, but Physical Chemistry questions were direct and quick to solve.

• Key Topics: Chemical Kinetics, Coordination Compounds, and Structure of Atom.

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.

Shift 2 Reporting Time & Schedule

The second shift of the day is scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM. Candidates must strictly follow the timing to avoid disqualification at the gate.

Essential Exam Day Guidelines

The State CET Cell has issued strict warnings regarding exam conduct. To ensure a smooth experience, keep the following in mind:

• Mandatory Documents: You must carry your MHT CET 2026 Admit Card along with a valid original Photo ID proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or Passport).

• No Gadgets: Electronic items, including smartwatches, calculators, and mobile phones, are strictly prohibited.

• AI Warning: The authorities have specifically warned against the use of any high-tech gadgets or AI-based tools. Any attempt at using unfair means will lead to a permanent ban.

• Login Procedure: Remember that the exam is divided into two parts. You get 90 minutes for Physics and Chemistry combined. Once that timer ends, that section is submitted automatically, and you move to the Mathematics section for the remaining 90 minutes.

What’s Next?

Memory-based question papers and unofficial answer keys for the April 16 Shift 1 exam will be released shortly by various coaching institutes. These are great for cross-checking your answers, but don’t let them stress you out if you have further shifts remaining. Focus on revising high-weightage chapters and practicing your calculation speed.

Written by Simran

Simran is currently working as a Senior Content Writer at Findmycollege , where she creates engaging and research-driven learning resources for students. She has completed her Graduation in Journalism from Delhi University. With 4 years of experience in the EdTech industry, she has previously contributed to leading platforms like Leverage Edu and Aakash. Her expertise lies in simplifying Engineering and Medical entrance exam content to guide aspirants in their preparation journey. Beyond writing, Simran enjoys sketching, watching movies, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life.

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