Executive Difficulty Verdict
This exam cohort was met with a moderately challenging pair of papers. Paper 1 (Non-Calculator) demanded high algebraic precision, particularly in the multi-step logarithm questions and kinematics, while Paper 2 (Calculator Allowed) pushed students to their limits with real-world contextual modeling. The transition from pure mechanical calculations to conceptual optimization (e.g., fitting a solid cylinder inside a hollow sphere in Paper 1 Question 9 and the card pyramid in Paper 2 Question 8) represents the classic IB style—requiring deep spatial reasoning and algebraic confidence under pressure.
Where the Marks are Distributed
The marks are well-spread across the core syllabus domains, with Calculus representing the largest single share at 39 marks, closely followed by Number and Algebra at 36 marks. Key mark-earning zones include:
- Section A Basics: Routine questions on logarithm rules, binomial expansions, and basic trigonometric integration provided early, accessible marks.
- Modeling and Structuring: Section B questions accounted for more than half of the total paper weighting, rewarding students who could successfully set up equations from word problems and geometric descriptions.
Common Examiner Pitfalls & Lost Marks
Examiner reports highlighted recurring slips where students routinely lost easy marks:
- Algebraic Slips: In Paper 1, many failed to write \( -\ln\left(\frac{1}{2}\right) \) as simply \( \ln 2 \), and struggled with binomial coefficients on the compound interest question.
- Asymptote Equations: In Paper 2, Question 9, a large number of candidates wrote down numerical values instead of complete equations of lines (e.g., writing \( 2/3 \) instead of \( x = 2/3 \)).
- Calculator Over-reliance: In Paper 2, candidates frequently wrote down final numerical answers directly from their GDC screens without showing the underlying mathematical setup or the specific integration/differentiation expressions used.
Strategic Revision & Pacing Advice
To maximize performance in future sets, candidates must adopt a structured pacing strategy. For Section A, aim to complete the short-answer questions in under 40 minutes per paper, leaving a full 50 minutes to navigate the complex multi-step problems in Section B. Additionally, always sketch visual diagrams for modeling questions, and ensure intermediate values are stored accurately on your GDC rather than rounding prematurely to 3 significant figures.
Future Predictions
With Calculus and Number & Algebra having taken center stage in this series, future exams are highly likely to re-emphasize Geometry and Trigonometry (specifically 3D trigonometric modeling) and Statistics and Probability (such as conditional probability and discrete random variables), both of which were slightly below their historic peak weights in this series.