Edexcel IGCSE Maths A specification (4MA1)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE Maths A 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 IGCSE Maths A 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 Maths A (4MA1) 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 Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics A aims to develop students’ mathematical understanding, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. The course builds confidence in applying mathematical techniques to both theoretical and real-life contexts. It fosters fluency in mathematical processes, critical thinking, and logical argumentation. The specification is structured to enable progression to higher-level mathematics qualifications and supports students in appreciating the role of mathematics in everyday life, further study, and employment. It emphasises the practical application of mathematics, alongside developing an enjoyment of the subject through challenges and problem-solving opportunities:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.Subject content breakdown
Foundation Tier
- Number and the Number System: Integers, fractions, decimals, powers and roots, set language, percentages, ratio, proportion, degree of accuracy, standard form, applications of number, calculator use.
- Equations, Formulae, and Identities: Symbols, algebraic manipulation, expressions and formulae, linear equations, simultaneous equations, quadratic equations, inequalities.
- Sequences, Functions, and Graphs: Generating sequences, linear expressions, graph interpretation, Cartesian coordinates, graphing straight lines and simple curves.
- Geometry and Trigonometry: Angles, lines, triangles, polygons, symmetry, measures, constructions, circle properties, geometrical reasoning, Pythagoras’ theorem, trigonometry, mensuration of 2D shapes, 3D shapes and volume, similarity.
- Vectors and Transformation Geometry: Transformations (rotation, reflection, translation, enlargement), basic vector knowledge.
- Statistics and Probability: Data presentation, statistical measures, probability language, diagrams, simple combined events.
Higher Tier (includes all Foundation content)
- Additional skills in surds, rationalising denominators, index laws with fractional/negative powers.
- Manipulation of algebraic fractions, completing the square, algebraic proofs, advanced formula rearrangement.
- Quadratic formula, quadratic inequalities, regions defined by inequalities.
- Function notation, composite and inverse functions, complex graphs including trigonometric functions, calculus introduction, differentiation applications.
- Circle theorems, intersecting chords, cyclic quadrilaterals, advanced trigonometry (sine/cosine rules), 3D trigonometry.
- Surface area and volume of spheres, cones, similar figures.
- Vector arithmetic and geometric proofs.
- Histograms, cumulative frequency, measures of spread, conditional probability, tree diagrams:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
Foundation Tier
- Paper 1F (2 hours, 100 marks): Calculator paper assessing Number, Algebra, Geometry, and Statistics; targeted at grades 5–1.
- Paper 2F (2 hours, 100 marks): Same format as Paper 1F.
Higher Tier
- Paper 1H (2 hours, 100 marks): Calculator paper assessing Number, Algebra, Geometry, and Statistics; targeted at grades 9–4.
Paper 2H (2 hours, 100 marks): Same format as Paper 1H.
- All papers are externally assessed.
- Calculators allowed for all papers.
- Diagrams not necessarily drawn to scale; instruments like rulers, compasses, and protractors may be required.
- Formulae sheets provided.
- The assessments will include approximately 40% of marks at grades 4–5 to allow comparability between tiers:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Assessment Objectives
- AO1 (57–63%): Knowledge, understanding, and skills in number and algebra.
- AO2 (22–28%): Knowledge, understanding, and skills in geometry and trigonometry, vectors, and transformation geometry.
AO3 (12–18%): Knowledge, understanding, and skills in statistics and probability.
- Problem-solving and mathematical reasoning weighted at 25–30% and 15–20% respectively depending on tier.
- Graded 9–1 for Higher Tier (with grade 3 permitted) and 5–1 for Foundation Tier.
- Linear qualification with both papers taken in the same examination series:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE Maths A 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