JEE Main and the state list are different ladders

Kerala students often sit both KEAM and JEE Main. The ranks do not translate. KEAM orders CET, the GECs, TKM, MEC and the private colleges that join state counselling. JEE Main orders NIT Calicut and IIIT Kottayam through JoSAA.

A strong state rank and a modest Main rank is a common result, and it points at CET or MEC, not at the NIT. The reverse is also common. Put both ranks into the predictor separately instead of averaging them into a feeling.

IIT Palakkad and IIST sit on a third ladder, JEE Advanced. Three exams, three lists, three conversations.