How to Revise for IGCSE Maths: A Simple 4-Week Plan

Most students don't fail IGCSE maths because they can't do the maths — they fail because gaps from earlier topics resurface under exam pressure. The fix isn't more hours; it's a structured plan. Here's a four-week routine that works.

Week 1 — Diagnose the gaps

Before revising everything, find out what actually needs work. Sit one past paper under timed conditions, then mark it honestly. Every question you got wrong or guessed goes on a "gap list". Group them by topic (algebra, trigonometry, number, geometry, statistics).

• Don't re-read notes you already understand — that feels productive but changes nothing.
• Focus the week on the two or three weakest topics only.

Week 2 — Rebuild the foundations

For each weak topic, learn the method, not just the answer. Work three easy questions, three medium, then one exam-style question. If you can explain each step out loud, it has stuck.

Week 3 — Mixed practice

Exams don't test one topic at a time, so your revision shouldn't either. Do mixed topic sets and full past-paper sections. Keep a running "mistake log" — the same two or three slips usually cost the most marks.

Week 4 — Exam simulation

Do full past papers, timed, in one sitting. Practise the exam skills that lose easy marks: reading the command word, showing working, and checking units. Aim to finish with 10 minutes spare to review.

The one habit that matters most

Review every mistake within 24 hours. A mistake you understand is worth ten questions you got right by luck.