Core Topics
The absolute pillars of the exam, comprising ~75%-85% of the score and difficulty. Each typically appears as a major application question in Paper 2.
Trigonometry Application in Context
- Sine/Cosine Rule
- 2D Bearings
- 3D Angles of Elevation/Depression
- Area of Triangle (Β½ ab sinC)
- Shortest Distance from a Point to a Line
- Integration with SOH-CAH-TOA
Quadratic Functions & Graphs
- Completing the Square & Vertex Form
- Graph Sketching including vertex, axis of symmetry, x/y intercepts
- Finding Maximum/Minimum Values
- Finding Equation from Graph
- Relationship between Roots and Graph Position
Comprehensive Algebraic Manipulation
- Operations on Algebraic Fractions
- Solving Fractional Equations
- Changing the Subject of a Formula
- Solving Simultaneous Equations
- Factorisation
Geometric Proofs & Similarity/Congruency
- Proving Similarity (mainly AA)
- Proving Congruency (SAS, SSS, ASA, RHS)
- Application of Similarity/Congruency Properties
- Ratio of Areas vs. Ratio of Lengths
- Properties of parallel lines, rhombus, trapezium
Satellite Topics
Lower-value but consistently appearing standalone concepts, usually in Paper 1. Key to securing your foundational marks.
Indices & Standard Form
- Laws of Indices
- Solving Exponential Equations
- Standard Form representation and operations
Statistics & Probability
- Mean, Median, Mode from charts
- Basic Probability
- Data Interpretation & Misleading Graphs
Ratio & Percentage in Context
- Map Scale (length and area)
- Simple & Compound Interest
- Percentage Change, Profit, Discount
- Currency Exchange
Coordinate Geometry
- Distance between two points
- Gradient of a line
- Equation of a straight line
- Gradients of parallel/perpendicular lines
Mensuration
- Circles, Sectors, Arc Length
- Surface Area & Volume of Solids
- Ratios in Similar Figures/Solids
Inequalities
- Solving Linear & Compound Inequalities
- Representing solution on a Number Line
π Scientific Study Tips
π― Prioritization Strategy
Invest 80% of your revision time in the Core Topics, as they form the bulk of the exam score. Ensure you can perform consistently on the comprehensive questions in Paper 2.
β Secure Foundational Marks
Although Satellite Topics have lower scores, they appear consistently. Mastering them ensures you don't lose the easy marks in Paper 1.
π Spaced Repetition
Schedule deep dives into 2-3 Core Topics weekly, while quickly reviewing 1-2 Satellite Topics daily to keep the concepts fresh.
π Simulated Practice
Regularly take full mock exams under timed conditions, focusing on time allocation. Core Topics require more practice and deeper thinking.