Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics: Command words

Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics (4MA1 for Mathematics A; 4MB1 for Mathematics B) uses command words similar to Cambridge. Mark schemes emphasise method marks—correct working can earn credit even when the final answer is wrong. Recent mark schemes state that examiners should check working even when the answer appears incorrect.

Command words in Edexcel Mathematics

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
Factorise	Write as product	Wrong factors
Expand	Remove brackets	Wrong expansion
Draw	Accurate construction or graph	Sketch when accurate needed
Sketch	Rough graph; key features	Wrong shape
Plot	Mark points; may need line	Wrong scale
Estimate	Rough value	Exact when estimate asked
Give your answer to	Round as specified	Wrong rounding
Explain	Mathematical reason	Description only

Mark scheme notation

• M marks—method; can be earned with wrong final answer.
• A marks—answer; often depend on M marks.
• B marks—answer independent of method.
• Working—must be shown for method marks.

Edexcel marking principles

Recent Edexcel mark schemes state:

• Apply positively—reward what candidates show.
• Method marks—award for correct method even if answer wrong.
• Check working—even when answer appears incorrect.
• Mark crossed-out work unless replaced by alternative.
• Full marks awarded when deserved; zero when not.

What examiner reports highlight

• No working—candidates lose method marks.
• Wrong formula—e.g. area, volume, Pythagoras.
• Units—missing or wrong.
• Rounding—wrong or too early.
• “Show that”—need to show the steps to reach the given value.
• Algebra—sign errors; incomplete expansion/factorisation.
• Read the question—units, rounding, “exact” vs “decimal”.

Tips for Edexcel Mathematics 4MA1 / 4MB1

1. Show working for every calculation.
2. Check the question—units, rounding, “give your answer to…”.
3. Use the correct formula—check the formula sheet.
4. Draw accurately when asked.
5. Estimate when asked—don’t over-calculate.
6. Past papers + mark schemes show method mark allocation.

How Tutopiya helps

Tutopiya supports Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics with tutors who use past papers and mark schemes. Explore IGCSE resources or book a free trial.

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Based on Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics specifications. Check the latest specification for your exam series.