Methodology

This list is based on analysis of Cambridge IGCSE History 0470 past papers (2019–2024), examiner reports, mark schemes and core content. Topics vary by option and depth study; this list reflects commonly assessed themes and skills.

Top 10 most frequently tested topics / skills

1. Causes of events (why questions)

Evidence: Examiner reports repeatedly note that candidates describe instead of explaining causes. “Why” questions appear in every paper.

Covers: identifying causes; distinguishing short- and long-term causes; linking causes to outcomes.

2. Treaty of Versailles and aftermath

Evidence: Core content for many centres. Post-WWI peace settlements appear regularly.

Covers: terms of the treaty; impact on Germany; Weimar Republic; League of Nations.

3. Rise of dictators (Hitler, Stalin, Mussolini)

Evidence: 20th-century dictators; totalitarianism. Common in Depth Studies.

Covers: rise to power; methods of control; propaganda; opposition.

4. Cold War origins and development

Evidence: Superpower relations; Truman Doctrine, Marshall Plan. Frequently assessed.

Covers: origins of Cold War; Berlin; Cuba; détente; end of Cold War.

5. World War I and World War II

Evidence: Both wars appear across options. Examiner reports note date range and focus errors.

Covers: causes; key events; impact; wartime leadership.

6. League of Nations and UN

Evidence: International organisation; peacekeeping. Appears in several options.

Covers: structure; successes and failures; comparison with UN.

7. Nazi Germany and Holocaust

Evidence: Depth Study content. Persecution, resistance, Final Solution.

Covers: Nazi policies; persecution; Holocaust; resistance.

8. Development of dictatorship: Germany 1918–45

Evidence: Weimar to Nazi Germany. Common Depth Study.

Covers: Weimar problems; rise of Hitler; Nazi state; WWII.

9. USA 1919–41 (optional)

Evidence: Roaring Twenties; Depression; New Deal. Popular option.

Covers: prosperity; Wall Street Crash; Depression; New Deal.

10. Source evaluation and analysis

Evidence: Every paper includes source-based questions. Examiner reports note reliability and purpose errors.

Covers: provenance; purpose; reliability; cross-referencing; using sources as evidence.

Revision priority

Master cause-and-effect (why, not just what). Use date ranges correctly. For source questions, focus on provenance, purpose and reliability. See common mistakes.

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Sources: Cambridge past papers 2019–2024, examiner reports. Topics depend on options chosen.