Why examiner reports matter

Cambridge Principal Examiner Reports are published after each exam series. 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 IGCSE)

1. Ignoring command words

Examiners consistently report that candidates answer the wrong type of question. For example:

• State asks for a short answer—many write long explanations
• Describe asks for what/how—many add “because” and explanations
• Explain asks for reasons—many only describe what happens
• Evaluate asks for a judgement—many only list points

Fix: Underline the command word. Match your response type to it.

2. Giving more (or fewer) answers than asked

For “State one way” or “State two factors”, only the number asked for is credited. Extra answers are ignored. Fewer than asked limits marks.

Fix: Give exactly the number requested. If “two”, give two—no more, no fewer.

3. Not using the resource

When a question says “Use the diagram” or “Use the table”, answers must refer to the stimulus. Describing from memory alone often scores poorly.

Fix: Reference specific details from the figure, graph or extract given.

4. Missing working in calculations

For Calculate questions, marks are split between method and answer. No working means no method marks—one arithmetic error can cost all marks.

Fix: Show every step. Include units. Use correct significant figures.

5. Vague or non-syllabus language

Mark schemes list syllabus terminology. Everyday language or vague wording often scores partial credit at best.

Fix: Use the correct scientific/humanities terms from your syllabus.

6. Not reading questions carefully

Examiners report candidates missing words like “not”, “only”, “between” or date ranges. Others answer a different question entirely.

Fix: Re-read each question. Check you are answering the focus asked (e.g. causes vs. effects, local vs. global).

7. Poor time management

Spending too long on early questions leaves later ones rushed or blank. Extended responses need time for planning and development.

Fix: Allocate time by marks. Leave time to check answers.

Subject-specific patterns

Common mistakes vary by subject. See the individual articles:

• Biology 0610
• Chemistry 0620
• Physics 0625
• Mathematics 0580
• English 0500
• Combined Science 0653
• Economics 0455
• Geography 0460
• History 0470
• Computer Science 0478
• Business Studies 0450

How Tutopiya helps

Tutopiya supports Cambridge IGCSE with tutors who use examiner reports and mark schemes. Explore IGCSE resources or book a free trial.

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Based on Cambridge IGCSE Principal Examiner Reports (2020–2025).