Edexcel A Level Statistics specification (9ST0)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel A Level Statistics 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 Statistics 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 Statistics (9ST0) 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
This A-level Statistics course provides learners with a thorough understanding of statistical concepts and techniques, focusing on practical application and interpretation. It equips students with the ability to critically analyse real-world data, design experiments, and draw meaningful conclusions. The specification encourages the development of problem-solving and communication skills, making it suitable for students aiming for further study or careers in science, social science, economics, business, and other data-driven disciplines.Subject content breakdown
Section A: Data Presentation and Interpretation
- Types of data and sources
- Tables, charts, and diagrams
- Summary statistics: measures of central tendency and dispersion
- Histograms, cumulative frequency, box plots
- Time series: moving averages, trends, seasonal components
Section B: Probability
- Probability rules and notation
- Venn diagrams, tree diagrams
- Conditional probability
- Independent and mutually exclusive events
Section C: Probability Distributions
- Discrete distributions: binomial, Poisson
- Continuous distributions: uniform, normal
- Use of cumulative distribution functions
- Mean and variance of distributions
Section D: Statistical Inference
- Sampling methods and distribution
- Hypothesis testing: significance tests for means and proportions
- Confidence intervals for means and proportions
- Use of critical values and p-values
Section E: Correlation and Regression
- Scatter diagrams, correlation coefficient
- Regression line: interpretation and use
- Residuals and goodness of fit
- Limitations and assumptions
Section F: Experimental Design
- Designing experiments: control groups, randomisation
- Types of experiments: matched pairs, independent groups, repeated measures
- Quasi-experiments
- Data collection issues: bias, reliability, validity
Section G: Goodness of Fit and Contingency Tables
- Chi-squared tests for goodness of fit
- Chi-squared test for independence
- Expected frequencies, degrees of freedom, interpretation
Section H: Quality Assurance
- Control charts for variables and attributes
- Process capability
- Use of sampling for quality control
Section I: Index Numbers
- Retail price index (RPI), consumer price index (CPI)
- Weighted index numbers
- Chain base and base year comparisons
- Real vs nominal values
Section J: Time Series Analysis
- Moving averages
- Trend lines
- Seasonal adjustments
- Forecasting
Section K: Population and Epidemiology
- Measures of population: birth rate, death rate, life expectancy
- Standardisation techniques
- Relative risk, odds ratio
- Use in public health and policy analysis
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Data and Probability
- 2-hour written exam
- 80 marks
- Covers Sections A to C
- Mixture of short and extended response questions
Paper 2: Statistical Inference
- 2-hour written exam
- 80 marks
- Covers Sections D to G
- Includes hypothesis tests, confidence intervals, experimental design
Paper 3: Applications of Statistics
- 2-hour written exam
- 80 marks
- Covers Sections H to K
- Focus on interpretation and application to real-world contexts
Assessment Features
- All papers equally weighted (33⅓% each)
- Use of calculator permitted throughout
- Formulae and statistical tables provided
Assessment Objectives
- AO1: Recall and apply statistical techniques (30–40%)
- AO2: Interpret and analyse data and results (30–40%)
- AO3: Evaluate assumptions, models, and conclusions (20–30%)
Overall Qualification
- Linear assessment at end of course
- Grading A*–E
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel A Level Statistics 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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