Cambridge A-Level Mathematics 9709: Command Words and What Examiners Reward
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
- Show working for every calculation
- Check the question—units, rounding, “exact” vs “decimal”
- Use correct formulae—check the formula sheet
- Prove—clear logical steps; no gaps
- 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.
Based on Cambridge International A-level Mathematics 9709 syllabus. Check the latest syllabus for your exam series.
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