Edexcel AS Maths specification (8MA0)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel 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.
Examiner-written revision resources that improve your grades 2x
- Written by expert teachers and examiners
- Aligned to exam specifications
- Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel 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 Edexcel AS Maths (8MA0) 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
Cambridge International AS Level Mathematics supports the development of mathematical skills, reasoning, and techniques that form a foundation for further academic study and practical problem-solving. The course fosters logical thinking and fluency in using mathematical language across a range of topics, including pure mathematics, statistics, and mechanics. Learners apply mathematics to real-world contexts and are encouraged to communicate their solutions clearly and effectively.
Subject content breakdown
1. Pure Mathematics 1 (P1)
- Quadratics, functions, graphs: solving equations, transformations
- Coordinate geometry: lines, gradients, midpoints, perpendicularity
- Circular measure: radians, arc length, sector area
- Trigonometry: identities, solving equations, sine/cosine rules
- Series: arithmetic and geometric sequences
- Differentiation: first and second derivatives, turning points
- Integration: definite and indefinite integrals, areas under curves
2. Probability and Statistics 1 (S1)
- Data representation: diagrams, measures of central tendency and spread
- Probability: rules, Venn diagrams, conditional probability
- Discrete random variables: probability functions, expectation, variance
- Binomial distribution: properties, probability calculations
- Normal distribution: standardisation, use of tables
3. Mechanics 1 (M1)
- Kinematics: motion in a straight line, displacement–time and velocity–time graphs
- Dynamics: Newton’s laws, force and motion, mass and acceleration
- Forces: resolving, friction, connected particles
- Work, energy and power: energy principles, power output and efficiency
Assessment structure
Paper 1 – Pure Mathematics 1 (P1)
- 1 hour 50 minutes, 75 marks
- All questions compulsory
- Covers Pure Mathematics content
Paper 5 – Probability and Statistics 1 (S1)
- 1 hour 15 minutes, 60 marks
- All questions compulsory
- Covers Statistics content
Paper 4 – Mechanics 1 (M1)
- 1 hour 15 minutes, 50 marks
- All questions compulsory
Covers Mechanics content
- Candidates take Paper 1 and either Paper 5 or Paper 4 for AS Level
- All papers externally assessed
- Grades awarded: A–E
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel 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.
Share this article