Overview
For Cambridge syllabus 9709, cambridge 9709 Mathematics is almost entirely point-marked — command words tell you how much working to show, not how eloquent to be. Misreading Calculate as “write the answer only” or skipping steps on Show that costs method marks every series.
Quick answer
For Cambridge syllabus 9709, > Key takeaway: Method marks (M1) rescue wrong finals when working is correct. The command word tells you how many lines to write.
| Verb | What 9709 examiners want |
|---|---|
| Calculate / Find / Solve | Formula → substitution → answer with unit/s.f. — working required |
| Show that | Prove the given result — no skipped algebra |
| Hence | Use the previous part — must reference it explicitly |
| Write down | Often one mark — no working needed unless stated |
Calculate, Find, and Solve
For Cambridge syllabus 9709, these verbs demand visible method:
- State the formula or approach
- Substitute values with units
- Give the final answer to appropriate significant figures
Examiners apply B1/M1/A1 rules. A correct number with no working often scores zero if the method was wrong.
Show that and Hence
For Cambridge syllabus 9709, show that gives you the answer — your job is a complete logical chain. Skipping “obvious” steps loses marks because the examiner cannot see your reasoning.
Hence links parts — start with “From part (a)…” or equivalent. Using a fresh method when Hence was required may score limited credit.
Write down and State
For Cambridge syllabus 9709, low-tariff recall — one line is enough. Do not waste time proving a Write down identity.
Practise with marking
Attempt a [9709 past paper](/past-papers/9709), mark strictly, then use [MarkScheme](/mark) for a second pass. Per-verb reference: [9709 command words tool](/tools/command-words/9709).
FAQ
This section covers FAQ — ranked by what Cambridge examiners return to most often in past papers.
Does Evaluate appear in 9709?
Rarely on maths papers — judgement verbs belong to humanities. If it appears, treat it as “justify with maths.”
What about proof questions?
Prove and Show that need rigorous logic — every implication must follow.
What to read next
This section covers What to read next — ranked by what Cambridge examiners return to most often in past papers.