Cambridge IGCSE · Analysis & Prediction

2025 Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) Past Paper: Analysis & Answers

The May/June 2025 series marks a historic transition in the Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) syllabus, introducing compulsory non-calculator components for Paper 1 and Paper 2. Candidates had to demonstrate robust written arithmetic, algebraic manipulation, and exact values, alongside traditional calculator-based mensuration, calculus, and statistics in Papers 3 and 4.

Updated: Jun 13, 2026

AnalysisSample paper
Difficulty 3.5/5
Total marks
200
Duration
240 mins
Most tested
—

Paper breakdown

Paper 2 (Extended, Non-calculator): 100 marks · 120 minsPaper 4 (Extended, Calculator): 100 marks · 120 mins

Examiner insights

Official report

Common pitfalls

  • Forgetting to write fractional answers in their simplest or mixed form when requested (e.g., Paper 11 Q24 and Paper 21 Q14).
  • Confusing linear scale factors with area or volume scale factors during similarity calculations (e.g., plan area vs actual area).
  • Overlooking the requirement to show clear, progressive working in non-calculator papers, resulting in the loss of all method marks if the final answer contains an arithmetic slip.

Misconceptions

  • Assuming that coordinates of turning points can be read visually from functions instead of setting dy/dx = 0.
  • Treating negative denominators or negative index powers as simple negative numbers instead of reciprocal operations.

Where marks are lost

  • Sign errors during simultaneous equation elimination or bracket expansions.
  • Incorrect value memory for exact trigonometric ratios (e.g., writing cos 30 as 1/2 instead of sqrt(3)/2).
  • Premature rounding of intermediate decimals in multi-step calculator questions, leading to final answers falling outside of the acceptable range.

Estimated grade boundary

Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Source: Cambridge IGCSE grade thresholds (official)
GradeMarkPercentage
A*156/20078%
A131/20066%
B106/20053%
C81/20041%
D68/20034%
E55/20028%
Official grade boundaries published by Cambridge IGCSE grade thresholds (official).

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