IGCSE 2026 Exam Trends: Cambridge Mathematics 0580

Understanding recent exam trends for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) helps you target revision and avoid common pitfalls. This article summarises what has been consistent in recent series and what to expect for 2026: paper structure, question types, topic emphasis, difficulty, marking and examiner expectations.

Paper format and structure – has anything changed?

• 0580 structure is unchanged for 2025–2026: Core (Papers 1 and 3) and Extended (Papers 2 and 4). Paper 2 and Paper 4 remain 2 hours each, 100 marks.
• Non-calculator papers (1 and 2) still place a strong emphasis on algebraic manipulation, basic geometry, and arithmetic fluency. Examiners repeatedly report that method and clear working are rewarded; final-answer-only responses often lose marks.
• Calculator papers (3 and 4) continue to include a mix: inequalities and set notation, constructions, indices, functions and range, bearings and scale, volume, probability and tree diagrams. Formula sheets are provided for areas, volumes, trigonometry and the quadratic formula – the focus is on when and how to use them, not recall.
• Multi-step problems are a consistent feature: one question spanning several parts, with later parts often depending on earlier answers. Carrying forward errors is allowed where method is correct, but setting out working clearly is essential.

Question types and topics that keep coming up

• Algebra: Expanding, factorising, solving linear and quadratic equations, and rearranging formulae appear every series. Changing the subject of a formula is a frequent source of lost marks when steps are omitted.
• Geometry: Circle theorems, angles in polygons, and constructions (bisectors, perpendiculars, loci) are regularly examined. Construction accuracy and arcs are checked in marking.
• Trigonometry: Right-angled trigonometry (SOHCAHTOA) and sine/cosine rules in context (e.g. bearings, triangles) are common. Exact use of the given formula sheet and rounding instructions is expected.
• Statistics and probability: Cumulative frequency, box plots, and tree diagrams (including conditional probability) appear often. Interpreting graphs and justifying conclusions in words is increasingly required.
• Number and graphs: Percentages, ratio, standard form, and graph drawing/interpretation (linear, quadratic, conversion graphs) remain core. Labelling axes, scale, and plotting points accurately are emphasised in mark schemes.

Are papers getting easier or harder?

• Standards are held consistent year on year via grade boundaries. Examiner reports do not suggest a deliberate shift in difficulty; weaker performance is usually linked to specific topics or question types (e.g. non-calculator fluency, multi-step reasoning).
• Extended is demanding: long questions, proof and reasoning, and application to unfamiliar contexts. Core caps at grade C and is less abstract but still requires solid technique.
• Recent reports highlight time management and reading the question (e.g. “give your answer to 2 decimal places”, “show that”) as differentiators between grades.

Similarity to past papers and predictability

• Structure and style are very similar to past papers: same command words, same mix of short and long items. Practising 2020–2025 papers is highly relevant.
• Topics are predictable in the sense that the syllabus is fully examinable; no major new areas have been added. What varies is the context (e.g. a real-world scenario for the same maths) and the combination of topics in one question.
• Low predictability of exact questions; high predictability of question types and command words (calculate, show that, explain, draw, write down).

Examiner expectations and marking

• Method marks are awarded for correct reasoning even if the final answer is wrong, provided working is clear. “Show that” questions require all steps to be shown.
• Units (e.g. cm, kg, %) are required where applicable; omission can cost a mark. Rounding must follow the question (e.g. 2 significant figures, 1 decimal place).
• Graphs and constructions: marks are given for correct method and accuracy; rough sketches or missing construction arcs lose credit. Examiners stress neat, labelled diagrams.
• Marking is consistent with past series; there is no indication of sudden tightening. The main issue reported is candidates not matching the level of detail required (e.g. brief when explanation is asked for).

Assessment style and skills in demand

• Application in context (worded problems, real-life data) is a strong theme. Pure manipulation alone is not enough; interpreting the situation and choosing the right strategy matter.
• Reasoning and “show that” appear on both calculator and non-calculator papers. Justification in words is sometimes required (e.g. why a shape is a certain type, or why a value is an over/underestimate).
• Numerical fluency on non-calculator papers is repeatedly cited: fractions, percentages, and basic algebra without a calculator. Building speed and accuracy here is a clear focus area.

Focus areas for 2026 revision

1. Non-calculator technique – algebra, fractions, percentages, simple geometry under time pressure.
2. Multi-step problems – practise full questions from past papers without breaking them into parts.
3. Command words and instructions – “show that”, “give your answer to…”, “hence find”; follow them exactly.
4. Constructions and graphs – use a sharp pencil, show construction arcs, label axes and curves.
5. Formula sheet use – know which formula applies and how to substitute; avoid arithmetic slips.

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This article is based on publicly available syllabus documents and examiner reports. Always use the latest Cambridge 0580 syllabus and past papers for your series.