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Complete revision guide covering all 10 Number topics in the Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics (9-1) specification. Free worked examples, exam tips, and practice resources.
The Number System is one of six major topic areas in IGCSE Edexcel Mathematics, accounting for 22-28% of the total exam marks. It covers integers, fractions, decimals, indices, surds, percentages, ratio and proportion, standard form, sets, and accuracy. Mastering number skills is essential because they underpin every other topic on the IGCSE paper.
Source: Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics (9-1) Specification 4MA1
Number topics carry the most marks on the IGCSE paper and appear in both calculator and non-calculator sections. Start with BIDMAS and fractions (the foundation), build to percentages and ratio (the highest mark-yield), then tackle Higher-only content like surds and bounds. Use our free worksheets alongside these guides for active practice, and refer to the formula sheet for quick reference.
Each guide below covers the key concepts, worked examples from Grade 6 through Grade 9, common exam mistakes, and targeted revision tips. Click any topic to access the full study guide.
Master order of operations, directed number arithmetic, and integer properties for a rock-solid IGCSE foundation.
Study GuideBreak numbers into prime factors and find highest common factors and lowest common multiples using Venn diagrams.
Study GuideAdd, subtract, multiply and divide fractions and mixed numbers with confidence across all IGCSE question types.
Study GuideApply all seven index laws including zero, negative, and fractional powers to simplify and evaluate expressions.
Study GuideUse set notation, Venn diagrams, and logical operators to solve classification and probability problems.
Study GuideCalculate percentage change, reverse percentages, simple interest, and compound growth and decay.
Study GuideSimplify ratios, share quantities, and solve direct and inverse proportion problems with real-world contexts.
Study GuideDetermine upper and lower bounds, calculate error intervals, and apply truncation rules in IGCSE exam problems.
Study GuideConvert between ordinary numbers and standard form, and perform addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
Study GuideSimplify surds, perform surd arithmetic, and rationalise denominators involving single and conjugate surds.
Study GuideNumber questions appear on both Paper 1 (non-calculator, 2 hours) and Paper 2 (calculator, 2 hours). On Paper 1, expect mental arithmetic with fractions, BIDMAS, and index laws. On Paper 2, expect multi-step problems involving percentages, compound interest, bounds, and standard form calculations. The later questions on each paper often combine number skills with algebra or geometry, so fluency in this topic is crucial for accessing the highest marks.
Percentages & Interest
8-12 marks across both papers
Ratio & Proportion
6-10 marks, often multi-step
Fractions & Decimals
4-8 marks, Paper 1 focus
Indices & Standard Form
4-8 marks, both papers
Surds (Higher only)
3-6 marks, often final Qs
Bounds (Higher only)
2-4 marks, usually 1 question
Ignoring BIDMAS with negative numbers
Always apply brackets first, then indices, before multiplication and division.
Not converting mixed numbers before multiplying fractions
Convert to improper fractions first, then multiply numerators and denominators.
Using the multiplier 0.3 for a 30% increase
A 30% increase uses the multiplier 1.30, not 0.30. Decrease uses 0.70.
Confusing HCF and LCM
HCF uses the overlap (intersection) of prime factors; LCM uses all prime factors (union).
Forgetting to rationalise surds in final answers
If the denominator contains a surd, multiply top and bottom by the conjugate.
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Last updated: March 2026
Common questions about the IGCSE Maths Number topic.
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