Cambridge (CIE) AS Maths specification (9709)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) AS 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 Cambridge (CIE) AS 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 Cambridge (CIE) AS Maths (9709) 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 Cambridge (CIE) specification PDF.
Specification overview
Cambridge International AS Level Mathematics develops mathematical fluency, reasoning and problem-solving skills in pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics. It encourages learners to model real-world situations, analyse mathematical arguments, and interpret data. The course supports progression to A Level and further study in mathematics, engineering, physical sciences, and economics, laying a strong foundation in core mathematical principles.
Subject content breakdown
Pure Mathematics 1 (P1)
- Quadratics, inequalities and functions
- Surds, indices and polynomials
- Coordinate geometry: straight lines and circles
- Sequences and series: arithmetic and geometric progressions
- Trigonometry: identities, equations, radians
- Exponentials and logarithms
- Differentiation and integration: first principles, applications
- Graph sketching and transformations
Probability & Statistics 1 (S1)
- Data presentation and summary: diagrams, measures of central tendency and spread
- Probability concepts and Venn diagrams
- Discrete and continuous random variables
- Binomial distribution
- Normal distribution and standardisation
- Linear correlation and regression
Assessment structure
AS Level Route 1: Pure Mathematics and Statistics
Paper 1 – Pure Mathematics 1 (P1)
- 1 hour 50 minutes
- 75 marks
- 50% of AS Level
Paper 5 – Probability & Statistics 1 (S1)
- 1 hour 15 minutes
- 50 marks
- 50% of AS Level
OR
AS Level Route 2: Pure Mathematics and Mechanics
Paper 1 – Pure Mathematics 1 (P1)
- 1 hour 50 minutes
- 75 marks
- 50% of AS Level
Paper 4 – Mechanics (M1)
- 1 hour 15 minutes
- 50 marks
50% of AS Level
- Both routes are valid for AS Level certification
- Each paper equally weighted
- All AS papers must be taken in the same examination series
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Cambridge (CIE) AS 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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