Mathematics: Method, Algebra and Accuracy
What the paper tests
The Mathematics paper covers number, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics and probability. Marks are awarded for method as well as answer, so a correct final value with no working can lose most of the credit.
Core rules
- Use BODMAS and keep signs attached to terms when rearranging.
- Show substitution and check by inserting the answer back into the original equation.
- Geometry answers need reasons: 'angles on a straight line' or 'alternate angles are equal.'
- Probability is between 0 and 1; probabilities of mutually exclusive events add.
- Keep units consistent and round only at the end.
Worked example
Solve 3x + 2y = 16 and x - y = 2. From the second equation, x = y + 2. Substitute into the first: 3(y + 2) + 2y = 16, so 3y + 6 + 2y = 16, 5y = 10, y = 2. Then x = 4. Check: 3(4) + 2(2) = 12 + 4 = 16. The solution is x = 4, y = 2.
Traps
- Dropping a negative sign when subtracting equations.
- Multiplying only the first term inside a bracket.
- Rounding mid-calculation and then rounding again.
- Giving a geometrical answer without a reason.
- Misreading 'hence' as an invitation to start again; it usually requires using the previous part.