OCR A Level Maths B (MEI) specification (H640)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your OCR A Level Maths B (MEI) 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 OCR A Level Maths B (MEI) 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 OCR A Level Maths B (MEI) (H640) 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 OCR specification PDF.
Specification overview
OCR’s A Level in Mathematics B (MEI) develops learners’ mathematical understanding through a blend of pure mathematics, mechanics, and statistics. The course builds on prior GCSE knowledge and introduces advanced mathematical concepts such as calculus and modelling. It aims to show how different areas of mathematics connect and how mathematics can be applied to solve real-world problems in diverse contexts including business, physical sciences and social sciences. The specification also promotes logical reasoning, problem-solving, and the construction of mathematical arguments. Learners are encouraged to use technology effectively and to reflect on their mathematical development throughout the course:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.Subject content breakdown
Pure Mathematics
- Proof: methods of deduction, contradiction, counterexamples
- Algebra: quadratics, simultaneous equations, inequalities, surds, indices, proportion, partial fractions, rational expressions
- Functions: domain and range, composite and inverse functions, modulus, modelling
- Graphs: sketching, transformations, stationary and inflection points
- Coordinate Geometry: straight lines, circles, parametric equations
- Sequences and Series: binomial expansions, sigma notation, arithmetic and geometric series
- Trigonometry: functions, identities, equations, graphs
- Exponentials and Logarithms: laws, graphs, solving equations
- Differentiation: first and second derivatives, turning points, rates of change, modelling
- Integration: definite and indefinite integrals, area under curves, solving differential equations
- Vectors: 2D and 3D vectors, scalar and vector products
Mechanics
- Kinematics: constant and variable acceleration, displacement-time and velocity-time graphs
- Forces and Newton’s Laws: resultant force, equilibrium, motion with forces including friction
- Moments: turning effect of forces
- Projectiles: modelling motion in two dimensions using vectors and parametric equations
Statistics
- Data Presentation and Interpretation: diagrams, summary statistics, outliers
- Probability: Venn diagrams, conditional probability, tree diagrams
- Statistical Distributions: binomial and Normal distributions, calculating probabilities
- Hypothesis Testing: test for a population proportion or mean using binomial or Normal models
- Large Data Set (LDS): interpret real data using technology for diagrams, calculations, and statistical methods:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Assessment structure
Pure Mathematics and Mechanics (01)
- 2-hour written paper
- 100 marks
- 36.4% of total A Level
- Includes shorter questions (Section A) and longer problem-solving questions (Section B)
Pure Mathematics and Statistics (02)
- 2-hour written paper
- 100 marks
- 36.4% of total A Level
- Section A: Pure content
- Section B: Statistics including questions based on a pre-release Large Data Set
Pure Mathematics and Comprehension (03)
- 2-hour written paper
- 75 marks
- 27.3% of total A Level
- Focuses on comprehension, application and modelling of pure mathematics
Assumes knowledge of mechanics and statistics
- Formulae provided in all papers
- Calculators with statistical and iterative functions permitted
- All papers are externally assessed and taken at the end of the course:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Key tips for success
Doing well in your OCR A Level Maths B (MEI) 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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