Top 10 GCSE Maths Topics You Need to Master in 2025

If you’re preparing for your GCSE Maths exams in 2025, you already know there’s a lot to cover. Whether you’re aiming for a Grade 4 or pushing toward a 7, 8, or 9, knowing which topics to focus on can make revision easier and more effective.

Here are the top 10 maths topics that consistently show up on GCSE Maths papers — and what you need to do to master them.

1. Algebraic Manipulation

You’ll need to:

  • Simplify expressions

  • Expand and factorise

  • Solve linear and quadratic equations

Tip: Practice turning worded problems into equations. This is a skill that examiners love to test.

2. Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages

Conversion between forms, percentage increase/decrease, and compound interest are must-knows. You’ll likely see more than one question on these in Paper 1 and Paper 2.

3. Ratio and Proportion

Make sure you can:

  • Share amounts in a given ratio

  • Solve direct and inverse proportion problems

  • Scale recipes and drawings

4. Averages and Data Representation

Know how to calculate:

  • Mean, median, mode, and range

  • Interpret bar charts, histograms, and box plots

Hint: Box plots and cumulative frequency graphs often appear on Foundation and Higher.

5. Pythagoras’ Theorem and Trigonometry

These topics often appear on non-calculator and calculator papers. Learn how to:

  • Use SOHCAHTOA

  • Apply the sine and cosine rules

  • Work with bearings and angles of elevation/depression

6. Linear Graphs and Coordinate Geometry

This includes:

  • Drawing graphs from equations

  • Finding gradients and intercepts

  • Midpoints and distance between points

Use real exam questions to practice reading graphs and interpreting data.

7. Probability

Understand:

  • Tree diagrams

  • Venn diagrams

  • Experimental vs theoretical probability

⚠️ Watch out: Misreading probability word problems is a common mistake.

8. Transformations and Congruence

You need to:

  • Rotate, reflect, translate, and enlarge shapes

  • Describe transformations fully

  • Know conditions for congruence and similarity

9. Area and Volume

Focus on:

  • Area of circles, triangles, compound shapes

  • Volume of prisms, spheres, cones, and pyramids

Memorise key formulas and practice applying them to real-life problems.

10. Inequalities and Number Lines

You should be able to:

  • Solve inequalities

  • Represent them on a number line

  • Interpret solution sets

How to Use This List

  1. Identify your weakest topics and tackle those first.

  2. Use past papers from AQA, Edexcel, or OCR depending on your board.

  3. Review your tutor’s feedback after every lesson — they’re your best resource.

Final Word

The key to GCSE Maths success is focused revision. Bookmark this page and return to it as a checklist as you move through your revision. If you’re not sure where to start, bring this list to your tutor — they’ll help you build a plan around it.