How to Tackle Long IGCSE Maths Questions on Paper 4

Long Questions: The Paper 4 Challenge

IGCSE Paper 4 typically contains 7–10 questions, each with multiple parts. The final 2–3 questions often carry 10–12 marks and are the most mathematically demanding on the paper.

Many students approach these questions with dread. The result: blank pages, lost partial marks, and significant overall mark loss on questions that were partially achievable.

The Fundamental Strategy: Partial Marks Are Real Marks

Cambridge’s mark scheme awards M marks (method marks) and A marks (accuracy marks). On a 10-mark question, a student might earn:

• 4 marks for setting up the problem correctly
• 2 more marks for performing the first stage
• 1 more mark for a partially correct final answer

That is 7 marks on a question they did not “complete.” A blank answer earns 0.

The rule: always write something on every question.

Breaking Down a Long Question

Step 1: Read the whole question before starting. Parts (a), (b), and (c) are often connected — part (b) uses the result from part (a). Understanding the structure first prevents surprises mid-answer.

Step 2: Start with what you know. Even if part (b) is confusing, start part (a). Partial answers in early parts earn marks.

Step 3: Write down the first step you would take even if unsure of the second. For trigonometry: write the correct formula. For probability: draw the tree diagram. For vectors: write the vector expressions. Each of these earns M marks even if the subsequent calculation goes wrong.

Step 4: Follow through. If you got part (a) wrong, use your part (a) answer in part (b) anyway. Cambridge’s follow-through policy awards marks for correct subsequent working using an earlier wrong answer.

Step 5: Never leave a blank. Even if you cannot work out the method, write the formula you think applies. Sometimes this earns 1 mark. Zero marks never does.

Handling Unfamiliar Question Formats

Cambridge occasionally includes a question in an unfamiliar format — a novel application of a known method. When this happens:

1. Identify which topic is being tested (the method is always from the standard syllabus)
2. Write the standard method for that topic
3. Apply it to the unfamiliar context as best you can

An unfamiliar question that earns 3 out of 8 marks is still 3 marks more than a blank page.

Practising Long Questions

The only way to become comfortable with long Paper 4 questions is to practise them repeatedly. Teacher Rig specifically drills Paper 4 final questions in the preparation sessions closest to the exam.

Book a free trial with Teacher Rig — long question strategy is covered in every diagnostic session.