Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics: Command Words and Examiner Expectations
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
- Show working for every calculation.
- Check the question—units, rounding, “give your answer to…”.
- Use the correct formula—check the formula sheet.
- Draw accurately when asked.
- Estimate when asked—don’t over-calculate.
- 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.
Based on Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics specifications. Check the latest specification for your exam series.
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