Diagnose before you revise
Choose a short mixed set or one past-paper section and complete it without notes. Sort every lost mark into one of four categories: knowledge gap, method choice, execution error or exam communication. That distinction matters because each problem needs a different response.
- Knowledge gap: relearn the definition, rule or formula.
- Method choice: compare several question types and practise recognising the cue.
- Execution error: slow down the working and check signs, units, substitutions or calculator input.
- Communication: show the steps, notation and conclusion the mark scheme requires.
Use a four-part question block
- Attempt two straightforward questions to reconstruct the method.
- Attempt several variations without looking at the example.
- Mark immediately and annotate the first incorrect step.
- Finish with one mixed question where the method is not announced.
Copying a worked example can create familiarity without independent problem solving. Always close the solution before attempting the next question.
Build an error log that produces action
Keep the log short: topic, error type, correct principle and a date to retry. Do not copy the whole question. The goal is to schedule another attempt, not create another set of notes. Reattempt the question after a short delay and again in mixed practice.
When to begin full papers
If many topics are still red, begin with topic sets and timed sections. Once you can select methods across mixed questions, introduce full papers. Mark them strictly, calculate the marks lost by topic and use the next session to repair the largest repeated weakness. One paper that is attempted, marked and corrected is more useful than several rushed papers.
What belongs on a maths flashcard?
Use cards for formulas, notation, conditions and short method decisions such as “When should I use the cosine rule?” Do not try to learn entire solutions as flashcards. Mathematical fluency comes from solving questions with changing numbers and contexts.
Plan the remaining weeks
Reserve the first part of your available time for weak-topic repair, the middle for mixed timed practice and the final part for complete papers and corrections. The free IGCSE revision planner calculates these stages from your exam date and available hours. You can also open the IGCSE Mathematics flashcard collection for formulas and key concepts.