GCSE Maths Exam Technique: How to Pick Up Easy Marks Most Students Miss

Many students lose 10–20 marks per paper — not because they don’t understand maths, but because they don’t apply the right exam technique.

Here’s how to fix that.

1. Always Show Full Working

Even for “simple” questions.

Why?

• Method marks are awarded

• It helps catch mistakes

• It shows the examiner your thinking

2. Underline Key Information

Train your child to underline:

• Numbers

• Units

• Instructions

  
  

This reduces careless mistakes.

3. Write Down Formulas

Even if they seem obvious.

This:

• Secures method marks

• Reduces memory pressure

• Improves accuracy

4. Attempt Every Question

Students often skip questions they don’t understand.

Instead:

• Write something relevant

• Use a formula

• Draw a diagram

  
  

👉 Partial marks are often available.

5. Check Answers Strategically

Teach your child to:

• Recalculate quickly

• Estimate

• Check units

• Re-read the question

6. Manage Time Effectively

Students should:

• Move on if stuck

• Return later

• Avoid spending too long on one question

Final Thought

Exam technique is one of the fastest ways to improve grades — often without learning any new content.

For a full breakdown of exam strategies and how to apply them across all papers, look at my other blog posts here: EAP Tutoring – Exam Support