How To Get a 9 in GCSE Maths

Since the government grading system changed to the new numerical system running from 9 to 1 (from the older A* to G system), it is now much harder to get the highest grade. Getting a 9 in GCSE Maths is a higher grade than an A* was, as it is meant to differentiate the very top achieving pupils.

In 2020 Grade 9s made up 6.6% of all results in England across all GCSE subjects – slightly higher than the previous year, but still quite a small percentage. So how do you get a 9 in GCSE Maths, considered one of the tougher subjects?

In order to excel in Maths, you need to put the work in. The more you practice the better you’ll get. You’ll need to work hard at your Maths throughout your GCSE years in order to get a 9, putting in regular effort rather than leaving it all until exam time.

Past papers are an excellent way to practice your Maths skills and to find out where your weaknesses lie. You can then use this knowledge to work extra hard at those areas that you are less confident in.

If you’re aiming for a Grade 9 then you may need to look further afield for resources to help you excel in your ‘weak’ areas, as you’ll still be doing better in these areas than most pupils.

If your school doesn’t provide you with the means to stretch yourself adequately then consider using an online resource such as Blutick to practice and challenge yourself.

Maths is a subject where the application of knowledge is as important as the knowledge itself. Knowing the theory of Maths inside out is not going to help you get a Grade 9 if you don’t know how to apply it creatively in various different situations. This is why practice plays such an important role.

While you may be very talented at Maths, you will also need to get the hang of demonstrating your skills in an exam situation. Exams are obviously very stressful and so being confident going into them is as important as the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired.

Again, doing a lot of practice papers will help with this, as at least the structure of the papers will be familiar to you. If you’re struggling with anxiety then it’s also important to talk to someone about this and get the help you need so that you’re at your very best during your exams.

While getting a 9 in GCSE Maths is difficult, it is not an impossible achievement. Put in the practice and hard work now and you’ll have a very good chance of nailing it in your exams and getting the grade you’re after.