CCEA past papers and mark schemes for GCSE Maths

1. Tackle questions by topic
Start by doing questions on each topic. These can be homework or classwork questions you have previously completed. If you are struggling with a particular topic, look at worked examples to help you to understand the technique and to select and use the correct formula. Repeat questions to consolidate your learning.

2. Work on weaknesses
Work through some past papers to identify weaker topics that require more work. To address these weaker topics, go back to using worked examples and previously completed questions.

3. Practise using equipment
Know how to use your calculator efficiently. Avoid getting a new style of calculator just before the exam as they can take time to get used to. Practise using a protractor for measuring and drawing angles, a compass for constructions and tracing paper for rotations.

4. Work with others
Explaining methods to a friend can help you consolidate your knowledge and understanding. Having a friend explain to you can be more helpful than reading an explanation and problem solving together can be beneficial for you both.

5. Perfect your timing
Once you feel ready, time yourself doing past papers for each of the modules you are entered for. This will teach you to pace yourself throughout the paper and give you confidence that you will be able to complete each paper within the time allowed.

Five top tips for your maths exams

A line of students at their desks in an examination room.

1. Bring the correct equipment
Make sure you bring everything you need for each exam. Ensure you have the correct equipment:

Black ballpoint pen
HB pencil for drawing or sketching
Clear ruler
Scientific calculator (remove the cover)
Compass (M5, M6, M7, M8)
Protractor (M5, M6, M7, M8)

Bring the calculator you are familiar with and ensure the correct mode is selected. If you need tracing paper, e.g., for rotations or translations, you should ask the exam invigilator for this.

2. Manage your time
While you are waiting for your maths exam to start, locate the clock nearest to you. As you work through the paper, take time to glance at the clock to check your pace.

Some questions you may find straightforward to answer, while others will need longer to work out. If you are unsure how to answer any question, don't panic – move on and return to it later.

3. Select your method
Read each question carefully. Don't assume you know which method to apply by glancing at the question. You have time to read and decide what maths to carry out.

Watch out for command words (e.g., solve, factorise) and specific mathematical terminology (e.g., ratio, expression). Remember, the formula sheet is the first page you will see when you open your exam paper.

You may want to underline information which you feel is important when selecting your method. Remember, it is best to attempt all questions. A blank answer space/line is a certain zero but, if you ‘have a go’, you may still pick up valuable marks.

4. Show your working out
You must show all your working out clearly. If your answer is wrong, you may still gain marks for showing correct method.

When using a formula, show how you have substituted values to get to your answer.

When using a calculator, write down what you typed in to get your answer.

As you work through the paper, you may find that questions become more challenging. Work through each question showing all of your working out. Even if you can't reach the final answer, you may still pick up valuable marks. However, DON'T offer two or more methods for the same question. You must decide and identify which method you wish to be marked.

5. Check your work
Before writing an answer on the answer line, re-read the question to ensure you've answered the question that was asked. Check if units and/or specific rounding are required in your answer.

Once you have completed the paper go back to any questions you may have found difficult and have another go. If you have time, check all of your answers again.

Revise specific maths topics

A calculator on top of an exercise book. Someone is writing out a mathematical equation in the book.

If practising with past papers has highlighted a particular area you need to improve, then further help is at hand.

You can go straight to the most relevant Bitesize study guide for CCEA GCSE Maths and refresh your knowledge.

All topics are covered (number, algebra, geometry and measures and handling data), for those studying either Foundation Tier or Higher Tier, from modules M1 to M8.

Follow the links to the topic and module of your choice, where you'll find easy-to-understand revision materials, including worked examples and quick quizzes.

Foundation Tier

M1 - Number | Algebra | Geometry and measures | Handling data

M2 - Number | Algebra | Geometry and measures | Handling data

M5 - Number & Algebra | Geometry and measures | Handling data

M6 - Number | Algebra | Geometry and measures | Handling data

Higher Tier

M3 - Number | Algebra | Geometry and measures | Handling data

M4 - Number & Algebra | Geometry and measures | Handling data

M7 - Number | Algebra | Geometry and measures | Handling data

M8 - Number & Algebra | Geometry and measures | Handling data