Cambridge International A-Level Most Common Mistakes: What Examiner Reports Say
Why examiner reports matter
Cambridge Principal Examiner Reports are published after each exam series for AS and A-level. They identify common candidate weaknesses, misconceptions and exam technique errors. The same issues appear repeatedly—students who learn from them can avoid losing marks unnecessarily.
Cross-subject mistakes (all Cambridge A-level)
1. Levels-based marking
Extended questions use levels of response descriptors. Candidates often write at a lower level than required—e.g. descriptive when evaluation is needed.
Fix: Evaluate = strengths and limitations + conclusion. Discuss = range of arguments + balanced view. Assess = weigh up + judgement.
2. Not showing working (Mathematics and Sciences)
Rubric states “no marks will be given for unsupported answers from a calculator.” Calculator-only answers with no method score zero if wrong.
Fix: Show every step. Write formulae. Substitute. Answer + units.
3. Not using the resource
When questions refer to data, diagrams or extracts, answers must use that information. Describing from memory limits marks.
Fix: Reference specific details. “The graph shows…”, “According to the data…“
4. Misreading questions
Candidates miss key phrases (“all bonds remain in the places shown”, “not”, “except”) that change the correct answer.
Fix: Re-read each question. Underline key words.
5. Units and precision
Wrong or missing units; incorrect significant figures or decimal places. Answers with wrong magnitude.
Fix: Include units. Check required precision. Does the answer make sense?
6. Vague or imprecise definitions
Definitions must include required terminology. Omitting key words (e.g. “gaseous”, “one mole”) costs marks.
Fix: Learn definitions precisely. Include all essential terms.
Subject-specific articles
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Based on Cambridge International AS & A Level Principal Examiner Reports (2016–2025).
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