Pearson Edexcel · GCSE · 1MA1
Mathematics — Keywords & Key Terms — Definitions Glossary (2026)
Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Mathematics (1MA1) Higher Tier
Topic-by-topic keywords, key terms and definitions for precise exam language—separate from our revision checklists (topic coverage) and formula sheets (equations).
Keywords & Key Terms — definitions
Examiner-style keywords and definitions organised by syllabus topic. Terms are tagged Essential (start here), Core (typical exam standard), and Advanced for harder distinctions — tick each row when you can recall it. Your progress is saved in this browser for this list.
Pearson Edexcel GCSE Mathematics (1MA1)
Pearson Edexcel GCSE Mathematics (1MA1)
Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Mathematics (1MA1) Higher Tier
Aligned to the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Mathematics 1MA1 Higher tier specification covering number, algebra, ratio and proportion, geometry and measures, probability and statistics.
Mark schemes: Pearson Edexcel mark schemes award method (M) marks for a correct strategy and accuracy (A) marks for the final answer. Show every algebraic step, give exact surd or fraction forms when asked, and link reasoning steps clearly in proof questions.
Active recall: 0 / 25 terms ticked
| Recalled | Topic | Level | Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Number | Essential | Surd | An irrational root left in root form, e.g. √3, that cannot simplify to a rational. | |
| 1. Number | Core | Standard form | A number written as A × 10ⁿ where 1 ≤ A < 10 and n is an integer. | |
| 1. Number | Core | Index laws | Rules for powers: aᵐ × aⁿ = aᵐ⁺ⁿ and (aᵐ)ⁿ = aᵐⁿ. | |
| 1. Number | Core | Recurring decimal | A decimal with a digit pattern that repeats forever, convertible to a fraction. | |
| 1. Number | Advanced | Bounds | Upper and lower limits of a rounded value used in error interval calculations. | |
| 2. Algebra | Essential | Quadratic equation | An equation of the form ax² + bx + c = 0 with a ≠ 0. | |
| 2. Algebra | Core | Quadratic formula | x = (−b ± √(b² − 4ac)) / 2a for any quadratic ax² + bx + c = 0. | |
| 2. Algebra | Core | Simultaneous equations | Two equations in two unknowns solved together by elimination or substitution. | |
| 2. Algebra | Core | Completing the square | Rewriting x² + bx + c as (x + p)² + q to find roots or turning points. | |
| 2. Algebra | Advanced | Iteration | Repeated substitution into a rearranged equation to approach a numerical solution. | |
| 3. Ratio, proportion & rates of change | Essential | Ratio | A comparison of two or more quantities written as a : b. | |
| 3. Ratio, proportion & rates of change | Core | Direct proportion | Two quantities increasing together at a constant rate; y = kx. | |
| 3. Ratio, proportion & rates of change | Core | Inverse proportion | As one quantity increases, the other decreases; y = k/x. | |
| 3. Ratio, proportion & rates of change | Core | Compound interest | Interest paid on the original amount plus previously accumulated interest. | |
| 3. Ratio, proportion & rates of change | Advanced | Compound measures | Quantities derived from others, e.g. speed = distance / time, density = mass / volume. | |
| 4. Geometry & trigonometry | Essential | Pythagoras' theorem | In any right-angled triangle, a² + b² = c² where c is the hypotenuse. | |
| 4. Geometry & trigonometry | Core | SOHCAHTOA | Right-angled trig: sin = opp/hyp, cos = adj/hyp, tan = opp/adj. | |
| 4. Geometry & trigonometry | Core | Sine rule | a/sin A = b/sin B = c/sin C, used in any triangle. | |
| 4. Geometry & trigonometry | Core | Cosine rule | a² = b² + c² − 2bc cos A, used to find unknown sides or angles. | |
| 4. Geometry & trigonometry | Advanced | Area of a triangle | Area = ½ab·sinC using two sides and the included angle. | |
| 5. Statistics & probability | Essential | Probability | A measure of likelihood from 0 (impossible) to 1 (certain). | |
| 5. Statistics & probability | Core | Interquartile range (IQR) | Upper quartile minus lower quartile; a measure of spread. | |
| 5. Statistics & probability | Core | Frequency density | Frequency ÷ class width; used as the height of bars in a histogram. | |
| 5. Statistics & probability | Core | Conditional probability | Probability of one event given that another event has already occurred. | |
| 5. Statistics & probability | Advanced | Tree diagram | Branching diagram for combined events with probabilities multiplied along each branch. |
Pair this with our revision checklists, formula sheets hub and past paper finder.
Mathematics (1MA1) — Keywords & Key Terms FAQ
- What is on this Pearson Edexcel GCSE Mathematics keywords and key terms list?
- It is a topic-organised glossary of important mathematics terms with short, exam-style definitions aligned to Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Mathematics (1MA1) Higher Tier (1MA1). It is designed for “define”, “state”, “outline” and “explain” questions where precise vocabulary earns marks.
- How should I use this Mathematics glossary alongside past papers?
- Tick terms when you can recall them without reading the answer, then check your wording against mark schemes. Pair vocabulary practice with past papers for GCSE Mathematics (1MA1) so you apply terms in context.
- Is this the same as a revision checklist or a formula sheet?
- No. Revision checklists help you track which syllabus topics you have covered and your confidence—separate pages on Tutopiya. Formula sheets summarise equations and quantitative relationships. This page is only a definitions and key-terms glossary for Mathematics. Use formula sheets for equations; use this list for precise terms and definitions.
- Can I download this Mathematics keywords and key terms list for free?
- Yes. After a quick free sign-up you can download a UTF-8 CSV (opens in Excel or Google Sheets) or open a print-friendly page and save as PDF. Browsing the list on the page is free.
- Is this Mathematics list aligned to the 1MA1 specification?
- Topic groupings and wording follow Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Mathematics (1MA1) Higher Tier for Pearson Edexcel GCSE. Always confirm final learning objectives and any regional options in your official specification and recent examiner reports for your exam session.
- Why focus on definitions instead of full notes?
- Mark schemes reward correct technical terms and clear links between ideas. A compact glossary lets you drill the exact language examiners expect for Mathematics at GCSE, separate from longer notes or topic trackers.