Navigating the path to an A* in A-Level Mathematics might appear challenging, but understanding the grading system can make it more achievable.
Previously, the A-Level Maths curriculum was divided into six modules: four Core modules and two electives from Statistics, Mechanics, or Decision. Each module’s raw scores were converted into a Uniform Mark Scale (UMS) to maintain fairness across sessions. To secure an A*, you needed an overall A (480/600 UMS) and a minimum of 180/200 UMS in the final two Core papers (an average of 90%).
While the specifics may differ, grade boundaries in both systems reflect the performance of the cohort each year. In modular systems, each unit had its own grade boundary, whereas in linear courses, boundaries are set for the entire qualification at once.
Aim for excellence in each paper without fixating on absolute perfection. Generally, an A* hovers around 80%.
Practice is the key to mastery, and A-Level Mathematics is no exception. To excel in every topic listed in the exam specification, you’ll need to answer numerous practice questions. I suggest using the exam specification itself to gauge your comfort level. When I teach a new student, I ask them to evaluate their understanding by assigning each topic a “RAG” rating:
– Green (G) indicates a strong understanding.
– Amber (A) signifies some underlying weaknesses. These gaps can’t be closed by mere repetition; a teacher or tutor is necessary to probe your understanding and ensure you grasp the concepts at a deeper level.
– Red (R) means you’re struggling and need immediate attention.
I’m frequently asked about the best questions and resources for practice. Here are key materials for Edexcel Mathematics that can also be applied to other exam boards:
1. Edexcel Past Papers and Mark Schemes
2. Further Pure Mathematics 1 and 2 (C1 and C2)
3. Core Mathematics 1 and 2 (M1 and M2)
4. Statistics 1 and 2 (S1 and S2)
5. Mechanics 1 and 2 (M3 and M4)
6. Decision Mathematics 1 and 2 (D1 and D2)
Although many other resources exist (e.g., CGP guides, Madas/I.Y.G.B papers, and Naikermaths papers), prioritize the resources listed above for the strongest possible chance of securing an A*.
Avoid taking extensive notes – maths is best learned by doing. When practicing, check the mark scheme after every question. Instead of tackling entire papers under strict exam conditions, it’s more efficient to cover a broad range of questions and confirm you’re getting them right as you go.
If you’re stuck and don’t understand the mark scheme, ask a tutor or teacher, or look up similar question types on YouTube. My favorite YouTubers include ExamSolutions, TLMaths, and Hegarty Maths, but there are many others who are good. PMT Education also offer walk-through model solutions for past exam paper questions on their YouTube Channel.
Revisit especially challenging questions – just wait a while before tackling them again. Keep track of these problems in an easily accessible place so you can quickly access them for practice after enough time has passed.
Much of my success in A-Level Mathematics came from taking Further Mathematics, which exposed me to more challenging material and made the A-Level content feel easier. To replicate this advantage, focus on difficult questions designed to stretch your thinking – questions from university entrance exams like STEP, MAT, or TUMA are particularly useful. They require a different, deeper approach, which I like to call “A* thinking,” and will prepare you to tackle any tricky A-Level Mathematics questions.
Confidence can work wonders. Be self-assured: know that you’ve put the work in and are capable. Accept that some things are out of your control and there’s no use dedicating energy to them. Ultimately, someone has to get an A* − why shouldn’t it be you?
Ethan is a First-Class Mathematics graduate from the University of Birmingham. He is currently working as a Management Consultant in the City of London. Ethan has taught Mathematics at KS3, GCSE, and A-Level, covering all exam boards, as well as the International Baccalaureate.
