Cambridge A-Level Mathematics 9709: Command words

Cambridge International A-level Mathematics (9709) uses fewer command words than essay subjects, but understanding them matters. Method marks are crucial—you can earn credit for correct working even if your final answer is wrong. Showing working is essential.

Command words

Command word	What to do	Common mistake
Calculate / Work out	Show working; numerical answer	No working
Show that	Prove the given result; show steps	Stating without proof
Find	Obtain the answer; show working	Guess or no working
Write down	Short answer; may not need working	Unnecessary working
State	Give the value; brief	Long explanation
Solve	Find value(s) satisfying equation	No working
Simplify	Express in simplest form	Incomplete
Prove	Deductive proof; show steps	Assumption
Verify	Check by substitution	Prove (different)
Sketch	Rough graph; key features	Too detailed
Draw	Accurate graph	Sketch when draw needed
Determine	Find with working	Guess
Show	Prove or demonstrate	Stating
Explain	Give mathematical reason	Description only

Method marks (M) and Answer marks (A)

• M marks—awarded for correct method; can be earned with wrong final answer
• A marks—awarded for correct answer; often depend on prior M marks
• B marks—awarded for correct answer independent of method
• Show your working—without it, you cannot earn method marks

A-level emphasis

At A-level, questions are longer and more complex:

• Multiple steps—each step can earn method marks
• Proof—Show that, Prove; need clear logical steps
• Application—applying to unfamiliar contexts
• Units—when required (e.g. mechanics)
• Exact values—π, √2, etc. when “exact” specified

Tips for Mathematics 9709

1. Show working for every calculation
2. Check the question—units, rounding, “exact” vs “decimal”
3. Use correct formulae—check the formula sheet
4. Prove—clear logical steps; no gaps
5. Past papers + mark schemes show method mark allocation

How Tutopiya helps

Tutopiya supports Mathematics 9709 with tutors who emphasise working and method marks. Explore A-level resources or book a free trial.

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Based on Cambridge International A-level Mathematics 9709 syllabus. Check the latest syllabus for your exam series.