SQA National 5 Applications of Mathematics specification (X844 75)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your SQA National 5 Applications of Mathematics 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 SQA National 5 Applications of Mathematics 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 SQA National 5 Applications of Mathematics (X844 75) 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 SQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
The National 5 Applications of Mathematics course motivates and challenges learners by enabling them to think through real-life situations involving mathematics and to form logical action plans. It is designed to develop mathematical reasoning in areas relevant to life and work, including financial matters, statistics, measurement, and geometry. The course supports confidence, positive attitudes, and the ability to generalise, justify decisions, assess risk, interpret information, and think creatively and abstractly.
Subject content breakdown
Numeracy skills
- Use and select appropriate numerical notation, units and formulae
- Carry out calculations including percentages, fractions, ratio, rounding, and conversions
- Interpret and justify measurements and calculations
- Work with speed, distance, time; area, volume, perimeter; direct/indirect proportion
Financial skills
- Budgeting and planning; analyse income, deductions and benefits
- Compare product deals; convert between currencies
- Understand savings, loans, interest, credit cards and APR
Statistical skills
- Calculate and interpret mean, median, mode, range, interquartile range, standard deviation
- Use and interpret boxplots, scattergraphs, pie charts
- Analyse probability, expected frequency, combined events, and bias
Measurement skills
- Use scales and instruments; calculate quantities
- Construct scale drawings; plan navigation routes and manage time
- Consider tolerance and compatibility of measurements
Geometric skills
- Apply gradient, Pythagoras’ theorem
- Solve problems involving area and volume of composite shapes
Graphical data and probability skills
- Interpret complex data from various diagrams, charts and graphs
- Make and justify decisions using trends, patterns, and probabilities
Assessment structure
Question Paper 1 (non-calculator)
- 35 marks
- 50 minutes
- Short-answer and extended-response questions in context
- Focus on operational and reasoning skills without calculator use
- Assesses interpretation and presentation of information
Question Paper 2
- 55 marks
- 1 hour 40 minutes
- Case studies and context-based problems
- Calculator permitted
Requires interpreting, analysing, calculating, concluding and justifying
- Structured question-and-answer format in both papers
- Approximately 65% of marks targeted at level C
- Both papers assess a balance of operational and reasoning skills
Key tips for success
Doing well in your SQA National 5 Applications of Mathematics 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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