Emath

Scoring well in Additional Mathematics (A Math) isn’t just about attending lessons and completing homework. The secret weapon many top students use? High-quality, well-organized A Math notes—and more importantly, knowing how to use them effectively.

Whether you’ve bought premium notes or downloaded free ones, how you study from them can make a massive difference in your understanding, retention, and ultimately, your grades. In this post, we’ll show you how to get the most value out of your A Math notes and turn them into a powerful tool to prepare for your O-Level exams.

1. Don’t Just Read—Annotate and Summarise

Many students make the mistake of passively reading through their notes like a storybook. That doesn’t work well with A Math, which requires deep conceptual understanding and strong problem-solving skills.

Instead, as you go through your notes:

• Write your own short summaries in the margins.
• Underline or highlight key formulas or theorems.
• Jot down quick reminders or memory aids next to worked examples.

By annotating, you’re actively engaging with the content, which helps reinforce your understanding and memory.

2. Use Notes to Pre-Learn Before Class

Your teacher might be the main source of explanation, but you can give yourself a serious head start by reading the topic in your notes before class.

Pre-learning allows you to:

• Familiarize yourself with the terms and formulas in advance.
• Understand the structure of the topic before your teacher explains it.
• Ask more specific, deeper questions during lessons.

This makes you more focused during class and helps you absorb lessons faster.

3. Link Each Topic to Exam Questions

A Math is not just about understanding concepts—it’s about applying them. Your notes are a great place to make these connections.

For each topic in your notes:

• Add a few examples of common exam-style questions.
• Highlight where formulas are most commonly tested.
• Write down any shortcut methods or time-saving techniques you discover from past papers.

This helps bridge the gap between studying and real exam performance.

4. Create a Revision System Using Your Notes

Closer to the O-Levels, your time is precious. A well-organized set of notes becomes your revision bible—if you’ve used them correctly all year.

Here’s a system you can use:

• Break your revision into weekly blocks by topic.
• Use your notes to review concepts, and test yourself by attempting questions without looking at the solutions.
• Check your answers against worked examples in the notes.
• Circle or tag weak areas for re-study later.

Doing this consistently in the months leading up to the exam ensures no topic is left out.

5. Focus on Understanding, Not Memorisation

Many students try to memorise formulas or steps from notes without understanding the logic behind them. This is risky—especially for A Math, where questions are designed to test application, not rote memory.

When using your notes:

• Take the time to understand why each step is taken in a worked example.
• Ask yourself, “What is this formula used for?” or “What changes if this number is negative?”
• If your notes include explanations, read them slowly and carefully—don’t skip them to get to the answer.

Strive to reach the point where you can explain each step in your own words.

6. Combine Notes with Practice—Every Time

Notes are the map, but practice is the journey. Every time you finish studying a topic from your notes, follow up immediately with practice questions.

For example:

• Read and annotate the Differentiation chapter.
• Attempt 5–10 basic and intermediate differentiation questions.
• Refer back to the notes only when stuck.
• Review mistakes and update your notes with corrections or reminders.

This tight loop between theory (notes) and application (practice) builds real exam confidence.

7. Use Notes as Quick Revision Before Tests

Before a class test or exam, your notes can help you revise a full topic in under 20 minutes—if they’re well-used.

Focus on:

• The summary pages and key formulas.
• Common question patterns.
• Examples of past exam tricks or errors you’ve annotated.

This quick, focused review just before a test can help activate your memory and reduce careless mistakes.

8. Use Digital Tools If Your Notes Are PDF-Based

If your A Math notes are in PDF or digital format, take advantage of tools like:

• PDF editors to highlight or comment.
• Anki or Notion to turn key concepts into flashcards.
• Google Docs to summarise topics in your own words.

Digital notes can be even more powerful when integrated into a custom study system.

9. Supplement Gaps with Trusted Sources

Even great notes might not explain everything perfectly for you. If a section feels unclear:

• Write down your doubts.
• Bring them to your teacher or tutor.
• Search for a trusted YouTube explanation or MOE-endorsed resource.

Then, update your notes with what you’ve learned. Your notes should evolve as your understanding grows.

Final Thoughts: Notes Are Powerful—If You Use Them Right

A Math is a tough subject, but it becomes much more manageable when you have the right tools. Well-organized notes can give you clarity, save revision time, and build confidence—but only if you use them actively and consistently.

Don’t treat your notes as just “study material”—treat them as a strategy. Use them to pre-learn, revise, annotate, and apply. If you do this well, your O-Level results will reflect it.

If you don’t already have a good set of A Math notes, consider checking out our professionally designed A Math Notes for Sec 3, created by experienced educators and tailored for the Singapore syllabus.

Ready to level up your revision?
View Our A Math Notes Collection

View Our E Math Notes Collection

As a Sec 3 student in Singapore, you’ve probably heard this many times — Additional Mathematics (A Math) is not just an advanced version of Elementary Math (E Math); it’s a whole new challenge. With new concepts like quadratic inequalities, trigonometric identities, and differentiation being introduced, it’s no surprise that many students feel overwhelmed.

To cope, most students turn to A Math notes — some download free ones from Telegram groups or websites, while others invest in paid A Math notes from reputable tutors or education platforms. But the real question is: which type of notes actually help you score in your exams?

In this blog post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of free vs paid A Math notes, what makes a good set of Sec 3 A Math notes, and how to choose the best resource to help you succeed in school.

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1. The Appeal of Free A Math Notes

There are tons of free math notes circulating online — from student-made Google Drive folders to free PDFs from Telegram groups and forums.

Pros of Free Notes:

• Cost-effective: Free notes are, well, free — perfect for students on a tight budget.
• Easily accessible: You can download them instantly without any signup or payment.
• Wide variety: There are many different formats, styles, and sources to choose from.

Cons of Free Notes:

• Lack of structure: Free notes often jump between topics or skip key explanations.
• Inconsistent quality: Many are written by students or tutors without much editing. You’ll find typos, missing steps, or outdated syllabus content.
• Not exam-focused: Most free notes lack emphasis on question types tested in Sec 3 mid-year and end-of-year exams.
• No support: You can’t ask questions or get clarifications if you’re confused about a step or concept.

Verdict: Free A Math notes are a decent supplementary resource, but they often fall short when it comes to providing clear guidance and structured learning — especially if you’re struggling with new Sec 3 topics like logarithms or trigonometric transformations.

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2. Why Paid A Math Notes Might Be Worth the Investment

Now let’s talk about paid A Math notes — those created by experienced tutors or educational publishers who have taught hundreds of students and understand the syllabus inside out.

Pros of Paid Notes:

• Structured and syllabus-aligned: Good paid notes follow the MOE A Math syllabus closely. Every topic is explained clearly, with proper progression from concept to application.
• Exam focus: Paid notes often include exam tips, common mistakes to avoid, and worked solutions for typical O-Level questions.
• High quality diagrams and formatting: You get clean layouts, proper math notation, and visual aids that actually help you understand.
• Bonus resources: Many paid note bundles include practice questions, step-by-step solutions, or even QR codes linking to video explanations.
• Trusted by top students: Premium notes often come recommended by high performers and are used by tuition centres.

Cons of Paid Notes:

• Cost: Quality comes with a price — usually ranging from $15 to $50 for a complete set.
• Over-reliance: Some students may rely too heavily on the notes without truly understanding the logic behind the math.

Verdict: If you’re serious about improving your A Math grades, investing in well-crafted Sec 3 A Math notes can be a game-changer. The clarity, structure, and exam focus give you a clear advantage over random free materials.

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3. What Makes a Good Set of A Math Notes?

Whether you’re considering free or paid resources, here’s a checklist of features that define effective A Math notes:

Clear Topic Structure

Each chapter should begin with a topic title, learning objectives, and key formulas.

Step-by-Step Examples

Look for notes that include worked solutions with clear explanations, not just the final answers.

MOE Syllabus Aligned

Ensure the notes are relevant to Singapore’s latest A Math syllabus — including updated topics like:

• Quadratic functions
• Binomial expansion
• Differentiation & integration
• Trigonometric identities

Summary Pages & Formula Sheets

Great notes include summaries for quick revision — ideal for exam preparation.

Practice & Application

The best A Math notes include:

• Past year question samples
• “Try it yourself” questions
• Common exam pitfalls

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4. Real Student Example: From C5 to A2 Using Paid Notes

Let’s take the example of Clara, a Sec 3 student from a neighbourhood school. She started A Math with a C5, struggling especially with graphs and algebraic proofs. She tried using free PDFs online but found them confusing and scattered.

Eventually, she bought a set of curated A Math notes recommended by her tuition teacher. The notes were structured by topic, included colored diagrams, and even came with bonus worksheets.

After two months of using the notes for her revision:

• She moved from C5 to B3 in her mid-year exams.
• By the end-of-year exams, she scored A2 and eventually made it into JC.

Clara says the biggest difference was how easy the notes made it to revise — she no longer had to google formulas or worry if she missed a concept.

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5. So… Free or Paid? Which Should You Choose?

The answer depends on your goals and current situation.

If you’re just starting A Math	Try free notes first to get a feel. But don’t hesitate to switch to premium notes if you’re struggling to understand or revise.
If your grades are slipping	Paid notes will likely give you the clarity and structure you need to catch up fast.
If you’re aiming for A1 or A2	You need notes that are exam-focused, reliable, and well-organized — paid notes offer all that and more.

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6. Final Thoughts: Notes Are Tools — Use Them Wisely

At the end of the day, notes are just one part of your A Math strategy. You still need to practice consistently, clarify doubts, and stay motivated.

But having the right notes can make a big difference — especially when they save you time, reduce confusion, and give you a clear revision roadmap.

If you’re looking for Sec 3 A Math notes that are designed to help you score, we’ve got a professionally crafted set built specifically for Singapore’s O-Level syllabus — with:

• Step-by-step solutions
• Exam tips
• Bonus worksheets

* Check out our A Math Notes for Sec 3 here

Graphs and functions are essential parts of the Elementary Mathematics (E-Math) syllabus in Singapore, and they form a key foundation for understanding many real-life applications of math. Whether it’s reading graphs, solving equations, or understanding how changes affect outcomes, this topic is critical for students aiming to score well in the O-Level E-Math exam.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about graphs and functions in E-Math—what they are, how to master them, and how they’re tested in Singapore’s curriculum.

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1. What Are Functions and Graphs in E-Math?

In E-Math, a function is a relationship between inputs (usually x-values) and outputs (y-values). A graph is a visual way to represent this relationship.

For example, the function y=2x+1y = 2x + 1 tells us how y changes when x changes. The corresponding graph is a straight line that slopes upward.

Students are expected to:

• Understand linear and quadratic functions
• Draw and interpret graphs
• Use graphs to solve equations and real-life problems

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2. Why This Topic Matters in E-Math

Graphs and functions show up frequently in exams and real-world contexts. You’ll use them in:

• Solving algebraic equations
• Modelling real-life relationships (distance-time graphs, cost-revenue, etc.)
• Understanding rates of change
• Geometry and statistics applications

Plus, this topic helps build intuition for more complex math in A-Math, JC, and beyond.

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3. Key Graph Types in the E-Math Syllabus

There are several types of graphs you must be familiar with for the O-Level E-Math exam:

Linear Graphs

• Equation form: y=mx+cy = mx + c
• m = gradient (slope), c = y-intercept
• Straight line, constant rate of change
• Example: Speed-time, cost models

Quadratic Graphs

• Equation form: y=ax2+bx+cy = ax^2 + bx + c
• U-shaped curve (called a parabola)
• Vertex is the maximum or minimum point
• Used to solve quadratic equations graphically

Distance-Time & Speed-Time Graphs

• Distance-time: gradient = speed
• Speed-time: area under graph = distance
• Must interpret changes in gradient or flat lines

Other Graphs

• Reciprocal: y=1xy = \frac{1}{x}
• Exponential growth and decay (e.g., interest, bacteria growth)
• Piecewise (multiple segments with different gradients)

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4. Important Concepts to Understand

Before jumping into graphing, you must be confident in:

• Coordinates: (x, y) points on the Cartesian plane
• Gradient: Rise over run = ΔyΔx\frac{\Delta y}{\Delta x}
• Intercepts: Where the graph crosses axes (x-intercept when y = 0)
• Solving equations graphically: Intersection points = solution
• Tables of values: Plugging in x-values to get y-values

💡 Tip: Always label your axes clearly and plot your points neatly.

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5. How to Plot a Graph Step-by-Step

Let’s say you’re asked to plot y=x2−4y = x^2 – 4.

Step 1: Create a Table of Values

Choose x-values from -3 to 3.
Calculate corresponding y-values.

x	-3	-2	-1	0	1	2	3
y	5	0	-3	-4	-3	0	5

Step 2: Plot the Points

Plot each (x, y) point on the graph paper.

Step 3: Draw the Curve or Line

Use a smooth curve (for quadratics) or straight edge (for linear graphs).

Step 4: Label the Graph

Write the equation and mark the intercepts, turning point, and axis of symmetry if needed.

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6. Common Graph Questions in the O-Level Exam

Expect these question formats:

Question Type	Topic	Difficulty
Draw the graph of a function	Graph plotting	Easy
Find the gradient of a straight line	Linear graphs	Easy
Find the coordinates of the minimum point	Quadratic graph	Moderate
Use a graph to solve an equation (e.g. find x)	Graph solving	Moderate
Interpret real-life graphs (e.g. distance-time)	Application	Hard
Calculate area under speed-time graph	Integration (conceptual)	Moderate

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7. Real-World Applications in E-Math

Many graph questions are tied to real-life contexts, such as:

• A car’s journey over time (distance-time graph)
• Sales increasing over time (linear or exponential)
• Cooling of an object (exponential decay)
• Cost of items bought (linear relationship)

Understanding these helps you interpret graphs not just for exams—but in practical scenarios too.

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8. Common Mistakes Students Make

Avoid these to protect your marks:

• Wrong scale on axes – makes graph inaccurate
• Plotting errors – misplacing even one point ruins curve
• Not labelling graph lines – unclear for markers
• Forgetting units – e.g., time in seconds or distance in km
• Using too few points – makes curve/line unreliable
• Ignoring context – e.g., speed can’t be negative

📝 Reminder: Always use graph paper and a pencil in exams. Rulers are essential!

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9. How to Study Graphs and Functions Effectively

Here’s a proven strategy:

Start with Understanding Concepts

Don’t jump straight into plotting. First, understand what the function means and what the graph should look like.

Use Graph Sketching Apps or Tools

Try apps like Desmos, GeoGebra, or even Google Search (type a function like “y = 2x + 3”) to instantly visualise graphs.

Practise Drawing By Hand

Exams require hand-drawn graphs. Build accuracy and speed by drawing them manually.

Work on Past Year Papers

Practice from the Ten-Year Series (TYS) or your school’s prelim papers. Pay special attention to graph-related problem-solving.

Test Yourself

Give yourself 10 minutes to complete a graph question. Set a timer. Check accuracy after.

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10. Helpful Formulas and Tips

• Gradient formula: m=y2−y1x2−x1m = \frac{y_2 – y_1}{x_2 – x_1}
• y-intercept: where x = 0
• To find x when y = 0, solve the equation y=mx+cy = mx + c for x
• Area under speed-time graph: use trapezium or rectangle formulas
• Turning point of a quadratic: can be estimated from the graph if not asked algebraically

Create a formula cheat sheet and review it before each test.

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Conclusion: Graphs Are Visual, Scoring & Practical

Graphs and functions aren’t just theoretical—they’re real, visual, and often very scoring if done carefully. Once you get comfortable with identifying patterns, plotting accurately, and interpreting relationships, this topic can become a major asset in your O-Level preparation.

To recap:

• Learn the key graph types
• Practise plotting accurately
• Use graph paper and neat presentation
• Apply graph understanding to real-world scenarios
• Avoid common mistakes with consistent practice

With the right mindset and preparation, you can master graphs and functions in E-Math—and give your grades a significant boost!

Calculus

Calculus is one of the most significant topics introduced in Additional Mathematics (A-Math) at the O-Level in Singapore. It often intimidates students at first glance, but with the right foundation and approach, differentiation and integration can become some of the most scoring areas in your exam.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to get started with calculus in A-Math—what it is, how to learn it, and how to score well in the topic.

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1. What Is Calculus?

Calculus is the branch of mathematics that deals with change and accumulation.

• Differentiation is about rates of change—how fast something is increasing or decreasing.
• Integration is about finding total values—like distance from speed, or area under a curve.

Both concepts are deeply linked. In fact, integration is often considered the reverse of differentiation.

In A-Math, you’ll learn the basics of both, often applied to functions and graphs.

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2. Why Calculus Matters in A-Math

Calculus is a high-weight topic in the O-Level A-Math exam and appears in both Paper 1 and Paper 2.

Here’s why it’s important:

• It helps you solve real-world problems in motion, geometry, and economics.
• It builds a foundation for JC H2 Math or polytechnic engineering and business courses.
• It’s highly scorable once you understand the methods and apply them correctly.

With consistent practice, calculus can be one of your strongest topics in A-Math.

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3. Understanding Differentiation: Basics and Rules

Differentiation tells you the gradient (slope) of a curve at any point. For example, the gradient of the line y=2x+3y = 2x + 3 is 2. But what about a curve like y=x2y = x^2? The slope changes at every point—differentiation helps us find it.

Basic Rule: Power Rule

If y=axny = ax^n, then:

dydx=anxn−1\frac{dy}{dx} = anx^{n-1}

Examples:

• y=x2y = x^2 → dydx=2x\frac{dy}{dx} = 2x
• y=3x4y = 3x^4 → dydx=12×3\frac{dy}{dx} = 12x^3

More Rules to Know:

• Constant Rule: y=cy = c → dydx=0\frac{dy}{dx} = 0
• Sum Rule: y=u+vy = u + v → dydx=dudx+dvdx\frac{dy}{dx} = \frac{du}{dx} + \frac{dv}{dx}
• Difference Rule: Same as sum, but subtract
• Product Rule and Chain Rule are not required in A-Math—only in JC.

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4. Applications of Differentiation

In the O-Level A-Math syllabus, differentiation is not just about finding the gradient.

You’ll need to know how to:

• Find the gradient of a tangent to a curve at a point
• Find stationary points (when dydx=0\frac{dy}{dx} = 0)
• Determine nature of turning points (maximum or minimum) using second derivative
• Sketch curves using gradient and turning points
• Solve rate-of-change problems in word problems

💡 Exam Tip: Use a sign diagram to test whether a stationary point is a maximum or minimum.

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5. Understanding Integration: Reverse of Differentiation

Integration is the reverse process of differentiation. If you know dydx\frac{dy}{dx}, integration helps you find yy.

Basic Rule: Power Rule (Reverse)

If dydx=axn\frac{dy}{dx} = ax^n, then:

y=an+1xn+1+Cy = \frac{a}{n+1}x^{n+1} + C
(where C is a constant of integration)

Examples:

• ∫3×2 dx=x3+C\int 3x^2 \, dx = x^3 + C
• ∫4x dx=2×2+C\int 4x \, dx = 2x^2 + C

You’ll learn both indefinite integrals (without limits) and definite integrals (with upper and lower limits).

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6. Applications of Integration

In O-Level A-Math, integration is commonly used for:

• Finding the equation of the curve when given a gradient function
• Calculating area under a curve between two x-values
• Solving motion problems (e.g., speed to distance)
• Solving geometry problems involving irregular shapes or regions between curves

💡 Exam Tip: For area under x-axis, your answer must be positive even if the integral gives a negative result.

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7. Common Mistakes Students Make in Calculus

To avoid losing easy marks, watch out for:

• Forgetting the constant +C+C in indefinite integrals
• Incorrect power rule application (especially negative and fractional powers)
• Not checking if the question involves area “above” or “below” x-axis
• Misinterpreting rate-of-change problems in word format
• Not using the correct limits in definite integrals

Create a checklist of steps to reduce careless errors, especially under exam pressure.

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8. How to Study Calculus Effectively

Here’s a proven approach:

Step 1: Master the Basics

Understand the rules, don’t just memorise them. Start with simple polynomials before moving to more complex expressions.

Step 2: Practise by Topic

Use topic-specific questions in your Ten-Year Series (TYS) to isolate weak areas.

Step 3: Learn Through Diagrams

Visualise gradients and areas under curves. Use graphs to connect abstract equations to real-world interpretation.

Step 4: Solve Real Application Questions

Practise questions involving motion, geometry, and rate of change. These often carry higher weight in exams.

Step 5: Review and Reflect

For every mistake, write down:

• What went wrong
• What’s the correct method
• How to avoid it next time

This process helps reinforce your understanding and prevent repetition of errors.

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9. Calculus Question Types You Must Know

Here are a few types of exam-style questions:

Question Type	Topic	Difficulty
Find gradient of a curve at a point	Differentiation	Easy
Find coordinates of turning points	Differentiation	Moderate
Find area bounded by curve and x-axis	Integration	Moderate
Find equation of curve from dy/dx	Integration	Moderate
Solve a rate-of-change problem	Application	Hard

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10. Extra Resources for Practice

Want to score even better? Use these tools:

• MOE A-Math syllabus PDF – To track what’s examinable
• TYS Calculus section – For real exam-style questions
• Online tools like Desmos or GeoGebra – To visualise graphs and integration
• YouTube channels like Mr Woo’s Math or SingaporeMathTutors for worked examples
• Tuition centres or online courses for deeper guidance

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Conclusion: Calculus Is Conquerable

Many students fear calculus—but the truth is, it’s one of the most structured, logical, and scorable topics in A-Math.

Here’s the formula to success:

• Master the power rules
• Understand gradient and area intuitively
• Practise problem-solving regularly
• Apply it to real-world questions
• Avoid careless mistakes with a checklist

With a solid foundation and the right approach, you can master A-Math calculus and boost your confidence and exam score significantly.

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Additional Mathematics (A-Math) is one of the most challenging O-Level subjects in Singapore, but also one of the most rewarding. It not only strengthens logical reasoning and analytical thinking, but also prepares students for advanced studies in science, engineering, and computing.

If you’re aiming for an A1 or A2 in A-Math, this guide will help you understand how to approach the subject strategically—covering exam tips, study techniques, and what high-performing students do differently.

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1. Know What Makes A-Math Different

A-Math goes beyond E-Math in both depth and complexity. It includes more abstract concepts and requires strong algebraic manipulation and problem-solving skills. Topics include:

• Quadratic and Polynomial Functions
• Logarithms and Exponentials
• Coordinate Geometry
• Calculus (Differentiation and Integration)
• Trigonometry (Advanced)
• Inequalities and Modulus Functions

Understanding this difference helps you shift your mindset—A-Math is not about memorising formulas, it’s about applying logic, patterns, and processes.

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2. Focus on the Heaviest-Weighted Topics

The A-Math O-Level exam in Singapore consists of 2 papers of 2 hours 15 minutes each. Key topics that carry a lot of weight include:

• Algebra (Binomial expansion, Partial fractions, Surds)
• Functions and Graphs (Quadratic, Modulus, Rational functions)
• Trigonometry (Radian measure, Identities, Graphs)
• Calculus (Differentiation and Integration)

Scoring well in these areas already gives you a major advantage. Prioritise mastering these before spending too much time on lower-weighted topics.

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3. Build a Strong Foundation in Algebra

Algebra is the core of A-Math. Weakness in algebra will cause students to struggle across multiple topics, from calculus to trigonometry.

Tips to master algebra:

• Practice simplifying complex expressions step by step
• Avoid careless sign mistakes by slowing down in key steps
• Don’t skip foundational rules (e.g. factorisation, indices, laws of surds)

A neat and organised solution often reflects a clearer mind—and fewer marks lost.

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4. Use a Problem-Solving Framework

Don’t jump into solving a question blindly. Instead, develop a habit of structured thinking:

1. Understand the problem
2. Plan your method (what formula or approach is needed?)
3. Execute the steps carefully
4. Check your answer (does it make sense in the context?)

This “UPER” model (Understand, Plan, Execute, Review) is used by top scorers and can dramatically reduce careless errors.

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5. Practice Using Past Year Papers and TYS

Practice isn’t just about doing a lot—it’s about doing the right type of questions.

Start with Ten-Year Series (TYS) books or O-Level past year papers:

• Sort questions by topic and difficulty
• Track your accuracy and timing
• Review fully worked solutions, not just answer keys

Closer to the O-Levels, focus more on full-paper timed practices to build stamina and exam readiness.

Useful link: Sec Amath Notes

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6. Learn Graph Sketching Inside-Out

Many A-Math questions test your ability to sketch or interpret graphs—especially modulus, quadratic, and rational functions.

Tips:

• Memorise basic graph shapes and key turning points
• Practise sketching without calculators
• Understand transformations like reflection, translation, and dilation

A small error in a graph can cost multiple marks, so aim for clarity and precision.

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7. Calculus: Understand, Don’t Just Memorise

Calculus is a game-changer in A-Math. Once you understand differentiation and integration conceptually, it becomes very manageable.

Here’s how to do well:

• Memorise basic rules and formulas (power, chain, product rule)
• Know the applications: gradient, maxima & minima, area under curve
• Practise problems that integrate calculus with algebra and geometry

Start with simple problems and gradually tackle those that involve multiple concepts in one question.

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8. Use Error Analysis to Learn Efficiently

Just like in E-Math, don’t just practice blindly—learn from your mistakes.

Maintain an error logbook where you:

• Write the question you got wrong
• Identify why it went wrong (careless, concept misunderstanding, etc.)
• Rewrite the correct solution and method

This method improves retention and ensures you don’t repeat the same mistake during the actual exam.

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9. Create a Formula & Concept Summary Sheet

With so many formulas and identities in A-Math, it’s smart to compile a summary sheet:

• Group them by topic
• Include when to use each formula
• Keep it visual with colour codes or mind maps

Review this sheet regularly, especially before school tests and exams.

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10. Don’t Wait to Ask for Help

A-Math can get overwhelming when concepts pile up. If you’re struggling to understand a topic, don’t delay:

• Ask your school teacher during consultation
• Form a study group with friends to discuss hard problems
• Consider a qualified A-Math tutor in Singapore who understands the latest syllabus

Timely clarification saves you hours of frustration later.

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11. Prepare Mentally for the Exam

A-Math exams are long and mentally draining. You need to stay sharp from question 1 to the last page.

To build exam endurance:

• Practise under real conditions—no phone, strict timing
• Eat a proper meal before the exam
• Don’t panic if you can’t solve a question—move on and return later

Mental preparation is as important as academic readiness.

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Conclusion: You Have What It Takes

Scoring well in A-Math is tough—but not impossible. It rewards those who approach it with strategy, consistency, and resilience. You don’t need to be naturally gifted—you just need to be disciplined.

Let’s summarise the keys to success:

• Understand the syllabus and focus on high-weight topics
• Build strong algebra and calculus foundations
• Practice past papers and learn from your errors
• Seek help early and stay mentally prepared

With the right habits and mindset, you can ace A-Math—and open doors to your future in JC, poly, or university.

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E-Math Singapore

Elementary Mathematics (E-Math) is a core subject for all secondary school students in Singapore, and it forms a critical foundation for further studies in science, business, and technology-related fields. Scoring well in E-Math at the O-Level is essential—not just for academic excellence, but also for opening doors to top junior colleges, polytechnics, and future scholarships.

In this guide, we’ll share proven tips and techniques to help you or your child score well in E-Math—from understanding the syllabus to managing exam stress.

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1. Understand the E-Math Syllabus and Exam Format

The MOE E-Math syllabus is designed to develop students’ mathematical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and logical reasoning. It includes topics such as:

• Numbers and Algebra
• Geometry and Measurement
• Statistics and Probability
• Graphs and Functions

The O-Level E-Math exam consists of 2 papers, each 2 hours long:

• Paper 1: Shorter questions without calculators
• Paper 2: Longer, structured questions with calculators

Familiarising yourself with the format helps you manage your time and focus your efforts more effectively.

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2. Master the Core Topics First

Not all topics are weighted equally. Focus on mastering the high-yield topics that appear frequently in exams:

• Algebra: Simplification, expansion, and factorisation
• Geometry: Congruence, similarity, Pythagoras’ Theorem, Trigonometry
• Graphs: Linear and quadratic graphs
• Statistics: Cumulative frequency, mean, median, mode
• Mensuration: Area, volume, surface area calculations

Mastering these ensures you secure a good base score, even before tackling more complex problem-solving questions.

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3. Build a Solid Foundation in Algebra

Many E-Math topics—from graphs to geometry—require strong algebraic manipulation. Common student mistakes come from incorrect factorisation, sign errors, or weak understanding of expressions and equations.

To strengthen this area:

• Practice mental arithmetic and basic algebra daily
• Use flashcards or mobile apps like Photomath to review quickly
• Work through past O-Level questions involving algebra-based problems

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4. Use Past Year Papers Strategically

One of the best ways to prepare is to practice with actual past-year E-Math papers from Singapore’s O-Level exams.

Benefits include:

• Understanding the question style and marking scheme
• Getting a feel for exam timing and pressure
• Identifying weak areas that need revision

Start by working on 1 paper a week under exam conditions. Closer to the exam, increase your practice frequency.

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5. Learn from Your Mistakes

Many students do lots of practice—but fail to reflect. Reviewing your errors is key to improvement.

• Keep a “mistake journal” to note wrong answers
• Write down the correct method beside each mistake
• Revisit the same question after a few days to test retention

This method helps you avoid repeating the same errors, especially for careless mistakes.

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6. Time Management is Crucial

Each paper gives you 2 hours for multiple questions, so efficient time management can make or break your performance.

Tips for better time usage:

• Allocate about 1.5 minutes per mark as a rough guide
• Don’t get stuck on one question—move on and return later
• Always attempt every question, even if unsure

Practising under timed conditions at home is the best way to build this habit.

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7. Strengthen Visualization and Geometry Skills

Geometry questions test spatial reasoning and visualization. Students often struggle with diagrams and 3D shapes.

To improve:

• Sketch diagrams to scale when possible
• Label known angles, sides, and formulas clearly
• Use geometry tools (compass, ruler, protractor) during revision

Apps like GeoGebra can also help you visualise geometric relationships interactively.

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8. Build Exam Confidence with Mock Tests

Simulate the actual O-Level exam at home at least 2-3 times before the real exam.

How to do it effectively:

• Use a quiet environment and set a strict timer
• Take Paper 1 and 2 on different days, just like the real exam
• Mark yourself or ask a tutor for feedback

This builds both familiarity and confidence, reducing exam anxiety.

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9. Get Help Early—Don’t Wait

If you’re consistently scoring below your target grade, it may be time to seek help:

• Ask your school teacher for extra practice or explanation
• Join a math tuition centre in Singapore that specialises in O-Level E-Math
• Try online tuition platforms for flexibility and affordability

Even a few weeks of targeted help can dramatically boost your score, especially before Prelims or O-Levels.

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10. Stay Consistent, Not Just Intense

Instead of cramming one week before exams, spread your learning out over months:

• Set a weekly study schedule
• Revise a little every day—even 30 minutes adds up
• Use weekends for longer revision sessions or mock tests

Consistency builds retention and confidence, which are crucial to performing well.

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Conclusion

Scoring well in E-Math is not about being a math genius—it’s about being consistent, strategic, and reflective. With the right approach, even average students can achieve an A1 or A2 at the O-Level.

To recap:

• Understand the syllabus
• Master core topics
• Practice past papers
• Manage your time
• Learn from mistakes

With focused effort, a solid study routine, and a positive mindset, you can excel in E-Math and take one big step closer to your academic goals. Contact us if you need a math tuition crash course.

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