Algebra

Algebra is the single biggest source of marks on Higher tier GCSE Maths, and it is where most students lose them. It runs from collecting like terms and expanding brackets up to simultaneous equations, quadratic inequalities and algebraic proof. Nearly every other unit, from graphs to trigonometry, leans on being able to rearrange and solve an equation cleanly.

Prioritise the quadratics chain: expanding double brackets, factorising, the quadratic formula and completing the square, since these reappear in graphs and simultaneous equations. Linear equations, inequalities and sequences are reliable Foundation and crossover marks. Algebraic fractions, functions and proof are Higher-only and separate a grade 7 from a grade 9. Build up in the order the topics are listed, because fluency with the early skills makes the harder material much faster to learn.