Edexcel IGCSE Further Pure Maths specification (4PM1)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE Further Pure 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 IGCSE Further Pure 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 IGCSE Further Pure Maths (4PM1) 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
The Edexcel International GCSE in Further Pure Mathematics is designed for students with a strong interest and aptitude in mathematics. It extends knowledge beyond the standard IGCSE Mathematics course, developing deeper understanding and advanced techniques in algebra, calculus, geometry, and trigonometry. This course enhances mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills, preparing students for A Level and beyond. The qualification is suitable for learners progressing towards mathematics-intensive subjects and careers, encouraging independent thinking and analytical precision in both pure and applied contexts:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.Subject content breakdown
1. Logarithmic functions and indices
- Laws of logarithms and indices; change of base.
- Graphs of exponential and logarithmic functions.
- Simplifying surds and rationalising denominators.
2. The quadratic function
- Factorisation and completing the square.
- Discriminant and nature of roots.
- Sum/product of roots; equations from root expressions.
3. Identities and inequalities
- Polynomial division, factor and remainder theorems.
- Simultaneous equations (including linear-quadratic).
- Solving and graphing linear/quadratic inequalities.
4. Graphs
- Polynomial and rational function graphs; asymptotes.
- Solving equations graphically.
5. Series
- ∑ notation; arithmetic and geometric series (finite and infinite).
6. The binomial series
- Expansion of (1 + x)^n for integer and rational n; validity conditions.
7. Scalar and vector quantities
- Vector operations: addition, scalar multiplication, i/j components.
- Magnitude, unit vectors, collinearity and dividing lines in ratios.
8. Rectangular Cartesian coordinates
- Distance between points, gradient, line equations.
- Dividing line segments; parallel/perpendicular conditions.
9. Calculus
- Differentiation/integration of polynomials, trig, exponential.
- Product, quotient, and chain rule.
- Kinematics, area, volumes of revolution, tangents/normals, rates of change.
10. Trigonometry
- Radians, arc length, sector area.
- Graphs and values of trig functions, identities, and formulae.
- Sine/cosine rules, area of triangle, addition formulae.
- Solving trig equations over defined intervals:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
Paper 1 (4PM1/01)
- 2 hours; 100 marks; 50% of qualification.
- Covers any content area; approx. 11 questions per paper.
- Calculators allowed; formula sheet provided.
Paper 2 (4PM1/02)
- 2 hours; 100 marks; 50% of qualification.
- Same format and coverage as Paper 1.
Assessment Overview
- Both papers assessed externally by Pearson.
- All questions target grades 9–4, with grade 3 allowed.
- Papers include a balance: ~40% of marks at grades 4–5, ~60% at 6–9.
Assessment Objectives
- AO1: Pure techniques knowledge – 30–40%
- AO2: Applying knowledge to unfamiliar problems – 20–30%
- AO3: Clear, accurate mathematical solutions – 35–50%
Grading
- Final grade awarded on 9–4 scale (grade 3 permitted); first examined June 2019.
- Suitable progression to International A Level or GCE Mathematics and beyond:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE Further Pure 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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