How to Get an A* in A Level Maths (Cambridge 9709 and Edexcel IAL)
Key takeaways
- Pure Maths decides most A* grades: Pure 1 and Pure 3 (Cambridge) or P1 to P4 (Edexcel IAL).
- Know your exact route: Cambridge 9709 A Level combines Pure 1 and Pure 3 with two applied papers.
- Start timed past papers at least 4 months before the exam and mark them strictly with the mark scheme.
- Most lost marks come from algebra slips, missing working on 'show that' questions and wrong accuracy (3 significant figures).
- June 2027 (zone 4): Cambridge 9709 Paper 1 is on 28 April and Paper 3 on 14 May 2027.
An A* in A Level Maths is one of the most valuable grades for engineering, economics and computer science. It comes from strong Pure Maths, accurate working and a lot of timed practice. Here is the plan we use with our students.
Know your papers first
| Board | AS | Full A Level |
|---|---|---|
| Cambridge 9709 | Pure 1 plus one of Pure 2, Mechanics or Probability and Statistics 1 | Pure 1 and Pure 3, plus Mechanics and Statistics 1, or Statistics 1 and Statistics 2 |
| Edexcel IAL | Pure 1, Pure 2 and one applied unit | Adds Pure 3, Pure 4 and a second applied unit |
Which topics decide the A*?
- Algebra and functions: the foundation of every paper.
- Calculus: differentiation, integration by parts and substitution, differential equations.
- Trigonometry: identities, R-formula and equations.
- Vectors and complex numbers (Pure 3).
- Applied: forces and kinematics, or probability distributions and hypothesis testing.
A 6-month plan to an A*
- Months 1–2: finish weak topics and build a formula and method sheet.
- Months 3–4: topic questions from past papers, marked against mark schemes.
- Months 5–6: two or three full timed papers a week, then review every lost mark.
The mistakes that cost the most marks
- Skipping steps in "show that" questions.
- Rounding too early or giving the wrong accuracy (use 3 significant figures unless told otherwise).
- Calculator in degrees instead of radians in calculus questions.
- Not reading the last line of a question, which often changes what is asked.
Need help?
Our A Level Maths tutors, including MS and PhD mathematicians, teach Cambridge 9709 and Edexcel IAL live in your time zone. Check your exam dates in our June 2027 timetable tool, or book a free trial class.
Questions parents and students ask
Is it hard to get an A* in A Level Maths?
It is demanding but very achievable with a plan. Students who master Pure Maths, practise full timed papers and learn mark-scheme technique regularly reach A*.
Which Cambridge 9709 papers make up the A Level?
Pure Mathematics 1 and Pure Mathematics 3, plus two applied papers: Mechanics with Probability and Statistics 1, or Probability and Statistics 1 and 2. Check your school's entry.
How many past papers should I do for A Level Maths?
Aim for at least 10 to 15 full timed papers per component in the final four months, plus topic-by-topic questions earlier in the course.
When is the A Level Maths exam in 2027?
In Cambridge zone 4 (Pakistan), 9709 Paper 1 is on 28 April 2027 and Paper 3 on 14 May 2027. Other zones differ; check your timetable.
Sources and references
- Cambridge International AS and A Level Mathematics 9709
- Pearson Edexcel International A Level Mathematics
- Cambridge June 2027 timetable, zone 4
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