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Ikiodiete George
- 3 Min Read
Jamb Literature In English Syllabus + Cbt Exam Success Tips (2025/2026): Official Guide
Are you preparing for the JAMB Literature in English exam in 2025/2026? This subject is crucial for students aiming for Law, Mass Communication, English, Theatre Arts, and related courses. Success requires understanding the syllabus, recommended texts, and question types. This official guide provides the full JAMB Literature syllabus, CBT exam format, expert success tips, and essential FAQs.
JAMB Literature in English Syllabus (2025/2026)
The JAMB Literature syllabus tests candidates’ understanding of literary devices, genres, themes, characters, and selected African and non-African texts.
1. Drama
| Topics | What to Study |
|---|---|
| Types of Drama | Tragedy, comedy, tragicomedy, melodrama |
| Dramatic Techniques | Dialogue, soliloquy, aside, flashback, suspense |
| Characterization | Major, minor characters, roles, development |
| Themes in Drama | Love, betrayal, justice, corruption, power |
| Playwrights and Styles | African and non-African dramatists |
| Recommended Plays (2025–2028) | (Refer to official JAMB syllabus for current titles) |
2. Prose
| Topics | What to Focus On |
|---|---|
| Types of Prose | Novel, novella, short story |
| Narrative Techniques | First-person, third-person, omniscient narrator |
| Plot Development | Exposition, conflict, climax, resolution |
| Themes and Motifs | Racism, poverty, ambition, family, tradition |
| Literary Appreciation | Analysis of language, style, and characterization |
| Recommended Novels (2025–2028) | (See current JAMB syllabus bulletin) |
3. Poetry
| Topics | What to Study |
|---|---|
| Types of Poetry | Narrative, lyrical, sonnet, ode, elegy, ballad |
| Poetic Devices | Alliteration, metaphor, simile, rhyme, personification |
| Themes in Poetry | Nature, love, death, politics, religion |
| Poetic Structure | Stanzas, rhyme scheme, meter |
| Analysis of Poems | Tone, mood, message |
| Recommended Poems (2025–2028) | (Refer to JAMB syllabus bulletin) |
4. General Literary Principles
| Topics | What to Focus On |
|---|---|
| Figures of Speech | Simile, metaphor, hyperbole, irony, symbolism |
| Literary Terms | Plot, setting, theme, characterization, conflict |
| Genres of Literature | Drama, prose, poetry – differences and features |
| African vs. Non-African Literature | Distinguishing themes, style, setting |
5. Recommended Texts (2025–2028 Cycle)
| Genre | Selected Titles |
|---|---|
| African Drama | Usually 1–2 plays selected by JAMB |
| Non-African Drama | Usually 1 play |
| African Prose | Usually 1–2 novels |
| Non-African Prose | Usually 1 novel |
| African Poetry | Selected anthology poems |
| Non-African Poetry | Selected anthology poems |
Note: Always check the latest JAMB official syllabus bulletin for current recommended texts.
JAMB Literature in English CBT Exam Format
| Exam Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Questions | 40 multiple-choice questions |
| Exam Type | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Question Format | Objective, 4-option answers |
| Exam Duration | Combined with other subjects (Total 2 hours) |
Top Success Tips for JAMB Literature in English CBT Exam
| Success Tip | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Read All Recommended Texts | Questions are directly from these works |
| Focus on Plot and Characters | Many questions test plot events and character roles |
| Master Literary Devices | Figures of speech appear repeatedly |
| Understand Poetic Structure | Especially rhyme, meter, and stanza forms |
| Memorize Key Themes | Helps in theme-based questions |
| Solve JAMB Past Questions | Recognize question trends and common themes |
| Practice Time Management | Don’t overthink questions – manage time wisely |
| Use Flashcards for Literary Terms | Quick revision of key concepts |
| Take CBT Mock Exams | Get comfortable with CBT environment |
FAQs About JAMB Literature in English Exam
1. How many questions are in JAMB Literature in English?
40 multiple-choice questions.
2. Does JAMB change recommended texts yearly?
No. JAMB selects texts for 3–5 years. Always confirm from the latest syllabus bulletin.
3. Are African texts more important?
Both African and non-African texts are equally important.
4. Do literary devices get tested?
Yes. Questions on metaphor, simile, irony, symbolism, etc., appear every year.
5. What textbooks help in JAMB Literature preparation?
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Exam Focus Literature in English
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Essential Literature in English for Senior Secondary Schools
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JAMB Past Questions & Answers (Literature)
Conclusion
Scoring high in JAMB Literature in English requires reading all recommended texts, understanding plots, analyzing characters, mastering literary devices, and solving past questions. Pay attention to African and non-African works equally.
With consistent study and practice, you can confidently score 70+ marks in JAMB Literature in English, boosting your UTME score significantly.
