Aiming for an A* in A-level maths might seem like a monumental challenge, but with the right strategies, it’s absolutely achievable. To help you secure that top grade, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide packed with actionable tips. Read on to discover how to prepare effectively and maximise your marks.
1. Understand the Grade Boundaries: You Don’t Need 100%
One of the biggest myths about getting an A* is that you need to be perfect. You don’t. Typically, you can lose around 20% of the marks and still achieve an A*. If you’re struggling with a question, move on! Don’t waste precious time. Every mark counts, but you don’t need every mark to succeed.
2. “Hence” Is Your New Favourite Word
When you see the word “hence” in a question, it’s a big clue. It means the examiner is telling you to use information from a previous part of the question. You might be on part (e) and need to revisit part (a). This is the examiner’s way of giving you a nudge—don’t miss it!
3. Start with Your Favourite Topics
Don’t feel pressured to work through the paper in order. Flick through at the start and identify questions on topics you’re most confident in. Tackle these first to build your confidence and bank those easy marks. When you get stuck, move on and come back later.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice
The best way to prepare for A-Level Maths is by doing past papers and practice questions. We’ve created brand-new papers for this year with unseen questions to test your readiness. Even better, Charlotte will walk you through these papers, showing you how to approach each question and lay out your answers to impress the examiner.
5. Use Visual Tools: Pictures and Highlighters
Use highlighters to annotate diagrams or create your own sketches if none are provided. Highlight forces, angles, or key pieces of information in the question to make them stand out.
6. Make the Examiner’s Job Easy
Examiners are often overworked, so clarity is key.
Leave space between lines of working.
Work logically down the page.
Box your final answers or write them on the answer line.
When your working is clear, it’s easier for the examiner to award marks.
7. Mistakes Happen: Cross Them Out Neatly
If you make a mistake, simply draw a single line through it. Don’t scribble or overwrite it, as this can confuse the examiner. Write the correct answer clearly below. Remember, examiners are trained to award marks wherever possible, so don’t panic if you slip up.
8. Read Every Question Twice
Always read the question at least twice. On your second read, use highlighters to pull out key details—numbers, units, or what the examiner is asking for. A careful, thorough approach will help you avoid missing important information.
9. Use Your Calculator Wisely
Your calculator is there to help! Even if you think you can do the calculations in your head, stress can lead to silly mistakes. Double-check that your calculator is in the correct mode (e.g., radians for trigonometry questions) before starting.
10. Don’t Rush: Accuracy Beats Speed
It’s tempting to rush through the paper, but accuracy is far more important. Take your time to double-check your calculations and ensure you’ve accounted for minus signs or units. Careless errors can cost easy marks.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Sign Up for Our Masterclasses
With exams fast approaching, now is the ideal time to invest in six months of access to our Masterclasses. For just £69 for GCSE or £149 for A-Level, you’ll get:
Weekly Tutorial Sessions: Master challenging topics with expert guidance.
Easter Revision Accelerator Course: Boost your confidence and consolidate your knowledge over the holidays.
Night-Before-the-Exam Sessions: Stay calm and focused with last-minute tips.
Predicted Papers and Walkthroughs: Tackle exclusive new questions and learn exactly what examiners want to see.
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Sign Up Today and Start Your Journey to an A*
Achieving an A* in A-Level Maths is within your reach. With the right strategies and support, you can tackle any challenge the exam throws at you. Join our Masterclasses today and take the first step towards exam success!