Understand Mathematics
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics course and assessment guide
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics combines secure subject knowledge with application, analysis and clear communication. This guide groups the official syllabus content into a readable learning journey and explains the usual assessment progression.
Know the papers.
Prepare with purpose.
Candidates follow a Core or Extended route and complete the paper combination specified for their subject. Science routes also assess practical competence.
Core route
Core papers assess the foundational syllabus and cap the available grade range. The exact paper combination depends on subject.
Extended route
Extended papers include Core and Supplement content and allow access to the full grade range.
Practical / alternative
Science practical skills are assessed through a practical test or an alternative-to-practical paper, depending on the entry route.
Written problem solving
Questions reward accurate knowledge, application in unfamiliar contexts, working and interpretation of data or diagrams.
Every area,
explained clearly.
Number and algebra
Numerical fluency develops into symbolic manipulation, functions and sequences.
NumberIntegers, fractions, percentages, ratio, bounds and standard form support accurate everyday and scientific calculation.＋
Integers, fractions, percentages, ratio, bounds and standard form support accurate everyday and scientific calculation. Estimation checks whether results are sensible.
Algebra and graphsExpressions, equations, inequalities and functions describe relationships.＋
Expressions, equations, inequalities and functions describe relationships. Graphs, gradients and intersections provide visual solutions and interpretation.
SequencesTerm-to-term and position-to-term rules describe patterns.＋
Term-to-term and position-to-term rules describe patterns. Linear and non-linear sequences connect numerical structure to algebra.
Geometry and measure
Shape, position and transformation are analysed in two and three dimensions.
Coordinate geometryCoordinates, gradient and line equations connect algebra to geometry.＋
Coordinates, gradient and line equations connect algebra to geometry. Parallel and perpendicular conditions support proof and problem solving.
GeometryAngles, congruence, similarity and circle theorems justify spatial relationships.＋
Angles, congruence, similarity and circle theorems justify spatial relationships. Logical chains of reasons are as important as the final value.
MensurationLength, area, surface area and volume quantify compound shapes and solids.＋
Length, area, surface area and volume quantify compound shapes and solids. Units and scale must remain consistent throughout.
Trigonometry and vectorsPythagoras, trigonometric ratios, sine and cosine rules solve triangles.＋
Pythagoras, trigonometric ratios, sine and cosine rules solve triangles. Vectors describe magnitude, direction and geometric relationships.
TransformationsReflection, rotation, translation and enlargement change position or scale predictably.＋
Reflection, rotation, translation and enlargement change position or scale predictably. Matrices may represent transformations on the Extended route.
Probability and statistics
Data and chance are represented, calculated and interpreted in context.
ProbabilitySample spaces, combined events, tree diagrams and conditional situations quantify uncertainty.＋
Sample spaces, combined events, tree diagrams and conditional situations quantify uncertainty. Experimental frequency is compared with theoretical expectation.
StatisticsTables, charts, averages and measures of spread summarize data.＋
Tables, charts, averages and measures of spread summarize data. Cumulative frequency, histograms and scatter diagrams support deeper interpretation.
Problem solvingMulti-step problems require selecting methods across topic boundaries.＋
Multi-step problems require selecting methods across topic boundaries. Clear working, units and interpretation make reasoning visible and creditworthy.
A student-friendly summary of the Cambridge International IGCSE syllabus. Centres should confirm the syllabus version and component option for their examination series.
Content is presented as an original student-friendly explanation. Always use the official syllabus for the examination year as the final authority.