Additional Math Paper 1 (non-calculator): what examiners say

Since the 2025 syllabus, Paper 1 is a non-calculator paper, and examiners describe it as the paper where algebra, exact values and clear working are tested most. This guide collects the messages that apply to Paper 1, on top of the points that apply to the whole syllabus.

This guide is based on a reading of Cambridge examiner reports for recent sessions. The advice is summarised in our own words.

What the reports say

• Show enough detail to prove you did not use a calculator. Candidates must follow the instruction about calculators and show sufficient detail in their solutions as evidence. This matters most when rationalising surds, and with each step in a question that does not allow a calculator.
• Exact answers. Surds, fractions and multiples of π. Decimal equivalents are not required.
• Simplification skills. Reports say some candidates would benefit from further practice at simplification, and that expansion, factorisation and simplification were often correct, with sign errors common.
• Inequalities. Sign errors and inaccuracies with inequality regions were common. A small sketch of the function helped candidates to find the correct solution set.
• Harder areas in recent reports. Modulus functions, logarithmic manipulation and trigonometric identities proved more challenging, particularly handling domain restrictions and applying standard identities.
• Proof and reasoning. These questions highlight the importance of clear, logical progression.
• Vectors, logarithms and combinations. One report records a significant number of candidates with an incomplete understanding of these three areas.
• A small error early on. In several reports, mistakes in the first line, such as a sign or a wrong multiplier, spoilt an otherwise sound solution.

Habits that help

• Keep expressions in exact form from the first line, and simplify surds at each stage.
• Sketch the function before you write an inequality answer.
• Practise past Paper 1 questions without a calculator, and write every line, even the ones you can do in your head.

Questions students ask

Does Additional Math Paper 1 allow a calculator?

No. Since the 2025 syllabus, Paper 1 is a non-calculator paper. Show enough detail in your solutions to prove you did not use one, especially with rational numbers and surds.

Which topics were harder in recent Paper 1 reports?

Modulus functions, logarithmic manipulation and trigonometric identities, particularly handling domain restrictions and applying standard identities. One report also records an incomplete understanding of vectors, logarithms and combinations.

How should I give answers in Paper 1?

In exact form: surds, fractions and multiples of π. Decimal equivalents are not required. Keep expressions exact from the first line and simplify surds at each stage.

How do I avoid early mistakes spoiling a solution?

Write every line, even ones you can do in your head. Several reports describe a sign or wrong multiplier in the first line spoiling an otherwise sound solution.