How to Master AQA A-Level Maths Paper 1 (Pure) in 2026
AQA A-Level Mathematics Paper 1 focuses entirely on Pure Mathematics and sets the tone for the rest of your exams. With 100 marks available across a 2-hour exam, it requires speed, accuracy, and confidence in problem-solving.
Here’s how you can prepare effectively and maximise your grade in Paper 1.
1. Know What Paper 1 Covers
Paper 1 is all about Pure Mathematics, which underpins everything else in the course. Key areas include:
- Algebra and functions
- Coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane
- Sequences and series
- Trigonometry
- Exponentials and logarithms
- Differentiation and integration
- Numerical methods
- Vectors
Since Paper 1 is pure-only, you won’t see statistics or mechanics – but the difficulty is often higher to balance this.
2. Understand the Exam Structure
Paper 1 lasts 2 hours and is worth 100 marks. Questions are a mix of short answers and multi-step problems, often requiring several different skills in one question.
Marks are awarded across three Assessment Objectives (AOs):
AO1: Use and apply standard techniques.
AO2: Reason, interpret and communicate mathematically.
AO3: Solve problems in context and construct extended arguments.
Strong students often lose marks on AO2 and AO3 because they don’t show enough working. Always write out your reasoning clearly.
3. Revise Actively, Not Passively
Maths is a “doing” subject – you won’t improve by just reading notes. Instead:
- Practise exam questions under timed conditions.
- Redo difficult problems until the method sticks.
- Make a “mistake log” so you don’t repeat errors.
- Use past papers for familiarity – but don’t just rely on them.
4. Use Predicted Papers for Realistic Practice
Past papers are essential, but examiners often change question styles to test deeper understanding. That’s why many students practise with predicted papers, which mirror the structure, difficulty, and likely focus areas for 2026.
We’ve created an AQA A-Level Maths Paper 1 (2026) Predicted Paper with a full guided mark scheme. It’s designed to replicate the real exam, helping you practise problem-solving under realistic conditions.
👉 Check out the Predicted Paper 1 (Pure Mathematics)
5. Focus on Common Weak Spots
Every year, examiners highlight areas where students underperform. For Paper 1, these often include:
- Proof questions (showing each logical step clearly).
- Trigonometric identities (especially manipulation of double/half-angle formulae).
- Integration techniques (substitution, by parts, partial fractions).
- Problem-solving with vectors (3D geometry questions).
Make sure you practise these regularly, as they’re high-value marks.
6. Exam Technique Tips
Show every step of your working – even if you think it’s obvious.
Box or underline your final answers for clarity.
If stuck, write down formulas and attempt the first steps – partial marks are often given.
Manage your time: don’t get bogged down on one question.
7. Get the Full Advantage Across All Papers
Paper 1 is only the start – to be fully prepared you’ll also need to practise for Paper 2 (Pure and Mechanics) and Paper 3 (Pure and Statistics).
That’s why we’ve created the AQA Maths Predicted Papers 2026 Bundle, which includes:
Each paper comes with a full guided mark scheme, so you can see exactly how marks are awarded. The bundle also saves money compared to buying individually.
👉 Get the AQA Maths Predicted Paper Bundle (2026)
Final Thoughts
AQA A-Level Maths Paper 1 is a tough introduction to exam season, but with the right preparation you can master it. By combining active revision, targeted practice on weaker topics, and timed exam-style papers, you’ll go into the exam with confidence.