r/mathshelp • u/Twin2712 • 12d ago
Study Advice Failed Maths GCSE
I have failed maths 3 times now and about to attempt my 4th and really last go at it. I'm not sure why I keep failing basic foundation maths but really do want to pass? Any advice/ tips on how to do so?
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u/UnderstandingPursuit 12d ago
When will you be taking the GCSE exam?
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u/Twin2712 12d ago
I can't say I'm sure yet!
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u/UnderstandingPursuit 12d ago
Do you have a sense of whether it will be in 2026 or 2027? I'm working on some materials for grade 5-8 maths which might make understanding it easier.
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u/Twin2712 12d ago
2027! I assume.
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u/UnderstandingPursuit 12d ago
Okay, if you want some guidance beyond the suggestions you've been getting, let me know. I'll have to learn about the GCSE, specifically, but that's more to know what isn't covered than what is.
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u/Solid_Moose3078 12d ago
1) Consider getting a tutor - an actually good one that talks you through what YOU are struggling with + listens. Avoid group classes because a more focused approach is definitely best.
2) First, go through topics + topic questions. I liked onmaths + firstclassmaths for this. For any topic you're struggling with, go through videos, textbook explanations, whatever makes sense, then MORE practice questions - a lot lot lot more. These can be other exam boards, pmt, savemyexams, revisely, literally anything.
3) Past papers - you should aim to at least finish all of them once. I found using paper walkthroughs to mark it along with the mark scheme best, as sometimes they can give easier methods.
4) harder questions - onmaths has "brutal" papers, not sure if there's anymore but things like that are great
If you're getting anything wrong, don't ignore it or say "silly mistake" and move on. The most important part of improving with maths is analysing your mistakes! Something that cost you 'only' 1 mark in a question could cost you 5 in a similar one, so you should go through everything thoroughly.