GCSE Maths Keywords and Definitions
Understanding GCSE Maths vocabulary is extremely important. Many students lose marks because they misunderstand the meaning of words in questions.
Good maths vocabulary helps students:
- understand exam questions correctly
- choose the right method
- avoid common mistakes
- communicate mathematical reasoning clearly
Algebra Keywords
Expression
A mathematical statement containing numbers, variables and operations.
Equation
A mathematical statement showing two expressions are equal.
Factorise
Writing an expression as a product of brackets or factors.
Topic page: Factorising
Expand
Multiplying brackets to remove them.
Topic page: Expanding Brackets
Substitute
Replacing variables with numbers or expressions.
Sequence
A list of numbers following a pattern or rule.
Topic page: Sequences
Number Keywords
Integer
A whole number, including negative numbers.
Prime Number
A number with exactly two factors: 1 and itself.
Multiple
A result found by multiplying a number.
Factor
A number that divides exactly into another number.
Reciprocal
The multiplicative inverse of a number.
Standard Form
Writing numbers in the form a × 10ⁿ.
Topic page: Standard Form
Geometry Keywords
Perimeter
The total distance around a shape.
Area
The amount of space inside a shape.
Topic page: Area and Perimeter
Hypotenuse
The longest side in a right-angled triangle.
Topic page: Pythagoras
Transformation
A movement or change of a shape.
Topic page: Transformations
Bearing
A direction measured clockwise from north.
Topic page: Bearings
Probability Keywords
Outcome
A possible result from an event.
Event
A situation or result being considered in probability.
Independent Events
Events where one outcome does not affect another.
Conditional Probability
Probability calculated based on another event already happening.
Topic page: Tree Diagrams
Statistics Keywords
Mean
The average found by dividing the total by the number of values.
Median
The middle value in an ordered list.
Mode
The most frequent value.
Range
The difference between the largest and smallest values.
Topic page: Mean Median Mode and Range
Histogram
A graph showing grouped continuous data using frequency density.
Topic page: Histograms
Important GCSE Exam Command Words
Calculate
Work out a numerical answer.
Solve
Find the value of an unknown variable.
Estimate
Find an approximate answer.
Show that
Demonstrate that a statement is true using clear mathematical working.
Explain
Give reasoning using mathematical evidence.
Understanding the command words in GCSE Maths questions is often just as important as knowing the maths itself.
Useful GCSE Maths Revision Guides
- GCSE Maths Exam Technique
- Common GCSE Maths Mistakes
- GCSE Maths Revision Checklist
- How to Revise GCSE Maths
Video explanation
A short Worthing Maths Tutor video explanation for GCSE Maths keywords and definitions can be embedded here later to improve student engagement and time on page.
Related GCSE Maths Pages
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