Edexcel A Level Maths specification (9MA0)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel A Level Maths exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel A Level Maths specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Edexcel A Level Maths (9MA0) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
A Level Mathematics enables learners to develop fluency and confidence in applying mathematical techniques, constructing arguments, and solving problems. The course supports progression to further study in mathematics, sciences, computing and engineering. It combines pure mathematics with applied topics in mechanics and statistics, encouraging mathematical modelling, reasoning, and interpretation of data in context. Students build skills in abstraction, logic, and real-world problem-solving throughout the programme.
Subject content breakdown
1. Pure Mathematics
- Proof, algebra and functions
- Coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane
- Sequences and series (including binomial expansion)
- Trigonometry and trigonometric functions
- Exponentials and logarithms
- Differentiation and integration
- Numerical methods
- Vectors in 2D and 3D
2. Statistics
- Sampling techniques and data presentation
- Measures of central tendency and spread
- Probability rules, Venn diagrams, conditional probability
- Statistical distributions: binomial and normal
- Hypothesis testing using normal distribution
3. Mechanics
- Kinematics: constant acceleration, variable acceleration
- Forces and Newton’s laws of motion
- Motion under gravity, connected particles, friction
- Moments, equilibrium
- Work, energy and power
- Modelling assumptions in mechanics
Assessment structure
Paper 1 – Pure Mathematics 1
- 2 hours, 100 marks
- Pure mathematics content only
Paper 2 – Pure Mathematics 2
- 2 hours, 100 marks
- Pure mathematics content only
Paper 3 – Statistics and Mechanics
- 2 hours, 100 marks
- Section A: Statistics
Section B: Mechanics
- Each paper contributes one-third of the A Level
- All three papers must be taken in the same examination series
- Calculators allowed in all assessments
- Questions assess modelling, reasoning, problem-solving and mathematical fluency
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel A Level Maths isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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