Additional Math Paper 2 (calculator): what examiners say

Paper 2 allows a calculator, and the examiner reports return again and again to the way the calculator is used. This guide collects the messages that apply to Paper 2, 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

• Calculator mode. This is one of the most repeated messages across the sessions: check that the calculator is in the appropriate mode (degrees or radians) when working with trigonometric expressions, particularly in questions involving calculus or solving trigonometric equations.
• Working still has to be shown. Instructions such as "showing all your working" mean that a significant loss of marks results when a solution is incomplete, often through calculator use. Combining the steps directly into a simplified form, such as one produced by a calculator, cannot be credited.
• Do not rely on the calculator for key operations. Candidates should not rely on calculators to solve quadratic equations or to work out the values of derivatives or integrals. Where a question needs a derivative evaluated, the substitution should be seen.
• The method for an incorrect equation. Method marks cannot be given for solving an incorrect equation when the solutions are taken directly from a calculator without showing any working.
• Use the calculator as a checking tool. Candidates are encouraged to check solutions with a calculator, and, when a check shows an error, to find the point at which the error arose and correct it fully.
• Substitution of limits. The substitution of limits into an integral should be shown so that the method can be seen and assessed.
• Repeating the question. Repeating information given in the question cannot be credited.
• Notation. Candidates are encouraged to use consistent notation, such as using the same variable throughout a solution, and should avoid replacing a function of a variable with the variable itself. They should write well-formed expressions with brackets where necessary, for example around the argument of a logarithm.
• Radians. When solving trigonometric equations with angles in radians, work in radians. In circular measure, converting angles to degrees is unnecessary and introduces more opportunity for error.
• Algebraic method. If the question requires a graphical method, an algebraic solution will not be credited, and the other way round.

Habits that help

• Write "RAD" or "DEG" at the top of the page when you start a trigonometry question, so that you do not forget to check.
• Use the calculator to check each answer after you have written the method, not to replace it.
• Write down the expression you enter into the calculator, so that a slip can still earn method marks.

Questions students ask

What is the main calculator message for Paper 2?

Check that the calculator is in the right mode, degrees or radians, for trigonometric expressions. It is one of the most repeated messages across the sessions.

Can I use my calculator to solve a quadratic or to find a derivative in Paper 2?

Not for marks. Candidates should not rely on calculators to solve quadratic equations or to work out the values of derivatives or integrals. Method marks cannot be given for solving an incorrect equation when the solutions are taken directly from a calculator.

What should I do when the paper says "showing all your working"?

Write every step. A significant loss of marks results when solutions are incomplete, often through calculator use. Also show the substitution of limits into an integral.

Should I work in radians or degrees for circular measure?

Work in radians. Converting angles to degrees is unnecessary and introduces more opportunity for error. When solving trigonometric equations with angles in radians, stay in radians.

Can I choose a different method from the one the question asks for?

Not safely. If the question requires a graphical method, an algebraic solution will not be credited, and the other way round.