IGCSE Maths Paper 2 (Extended) – Exam Strategy
Paper 2 is a non-calculator paper lasting 2 hours with 100 marks. It covers Extended content with structured and multi-step questions. This guide explains how to maximise your score.
Paper Structure
Paper 2 tests Extended-level content without a calculator. Questions increase in difficulty and many require multi-step reasoning.
Tips
- Identify the topic before starting each question
- Underline key values in the question
- Check units throughout
Time Management
With 100 marks in 120 minutes, you have just over 1 minute per mark. Budget your time carefully on longer questions worth 5+ marks.
Tips
- Allocate roughly 1 minute per mark
- Do not spend more than 6 minutes on any single question
- Review answers in the last 10 minutes
Non-Calculator Techniques
Extended-level non-calculator questions may involve surds, algebraic fractions, and exact trigonometric values. Fluency with these is essential.
Tips
- Memorise exact values of sin, cos, tan for 30°, 45°, 60°
- Practise simplifying surds without a calculator
- Know how to rationalise denominators
Key Takeaways
- 54 seconds per mark pacing
- Master surds and exact trig values
- Budget extra time for 5+ mark questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does Paper 2 differ from Paper 1?
Paper 2 covers Extended content and is longer (90 minutes, 100 marks) compared to Paper 1 which covers Core content (60 minutes, 80 marks). Both are non-calculator.
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