IGCSE Additional Maths 0606: Cambridge (CIE)
Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606) is a demanding extension to IGCSE Maths that introduces A-level ideas such as functions, logarithms, radians, the binomial theorem, vectors and calculus. It is assessed by two 2-hour papers of 80 marks each, one without a calculator, and awards grades A* to E. This FLN Tutors course follows the current 0606 syllabus across all 14 topics. Lessons are live and one-to-one with a verified maths tutor, who teaches each technique, builds non-calculator fluency, works through past-paper questions and marks them against the mark scheme. It suits strong IGCSE Maths students in India, Malaysia, Singapore, the Gulf and elsewhere.
Reviewed by M. Wazid, Master's in Mathematics, Jamia Millia IslamiaLast updated
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What you will learn
Learning outcomes
- Develop advanced algebraic manipulation skills
- Understand functions and composite functions
- Solve quadratic equations and inequalities
- Work with indices logarithms and exponential functions
- Apply coordinate geometry techniques
- Understand circular measure
- Apply advanced trigonometric concepts and identities
- Work with permutations and combinations
- Understand sequences and series
- Apply vectors to mathematical problems
- Understand differentiation and its applications
- Understand integration and its applications
- Develop advanced mathematical reasoning skills
- Solve complex mathematical problems
- Apply knowledge to Cambridge exam-style questions
- Develop effective examination techniques
Prerequisites
- Strong foundation in IGCSE Mathematics
- Strong arithmetic and algebra skills
- Understanding of equations and inequalities
- Good knowledge of geometry and trigonometry
- Ability to interpret graphs and functions
- Confidence with mathematical problem solving
- English reading and comprehension skills
Tags
Course structure
Syllabus(6 modules)
- Language of Functions
- Inverse Functions
- Composite Functions
- Solving Quadratics by Factorising
- Quadratic Formula
- Completing the Square
- Quadratic Equation Methods
- Discriminants
- Quadratic Graphs
- Quadratic Inequalities
- Operations with Polynomials
- Polynomial Division
- Factor & Remainder Theorem
- Solving Cubic Equations
- Modulus Functions
- Graphs of Cubic Polynomials
- Linear Simultaneous Equations
- Quadratic Simultaneous Equations
- Exponential Functions
- Logarithmic Functions
- Laws of Logarithms
- Exponential Equations
- Transforming Relationships to Linear Form
What is Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606)?
In short: IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606) is a Cambridge qualification for students who are confident with IGCSE Maths and want to start A-level topics early. It covers algebra, functions, logarithms, trigonometry in radians, series, vectors and introductory calculus.
It is usually taken alongside or after Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580), and Cambridge recommends that candidates already know the Extended maths content. Because it overlaps strongly with the first year of A-level Maths, it is popular with students planning maths, engineering, economics or science.
This FLN Tutors (Freelancer Network) course follows the official Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics 0606 syllabus. For general maths help, see maths tutoring.
How is IGCSE Additional Maths 0606 assessed?
| Paper | Calculator | Time | Marks | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Not allowed | 2 hours | 80 | 50% |
| Paper 2 | Scientific calculator required | 2 hours | 80 | 50% |
Both papers contain structured and unstructured questions on any part of the syllabus, and all questions are compulsory. Candidates must show all necessary working, and a list of formulas is provided in the exam.
| Assessment objective | Weighting |
|---|---|
| AO1 Knowledge and understanding of mathematical techniques | 45 to 55% |
| AO2 Analyse, interpret and communicate mathematically | 45 to 55% |
Grades: A* to E only. Grades F and G are not available, so a candidate below grade E is unclassified. Exams run in the June and November series, with a March series in India.
What changed in the current 0606 syllabus?
The syllabus for 2025, 2026 and 2027 brought several changes, and Cambridge's 2028 to 2030 syllabus makes no significant changes to teaching.
- A non-calculator paper: Paper 1 is now taken without a calculator, so arithmetic with fractions, surds and exact trigonometric values matters again.
- New topic: coordinate geometry of the circle.
- Removed topic: indices and surds are now assumed knowledge rather than a separate topic.
- Updated formula list, command words and mathematical conventions.
Older textbooks and past papers before 2025 still help, but check that questions match the current topic list and that you practise without a calculator.
Which topics does 0606 cover?
| Topic | Key content |
|---|---|
| 1 Functions | Domain and range, inverse and composite functions, modulus functions |
| 2 Quadratic functions | Completing the square, discriminant, quadratic inequalities |
| 3 Factors of polynomials | Factor and remainder theorems, cubic equations |
| 4 Equations, inequalities and graphs | Modulus equations, graphs of polynomials, solving cubic inequalities |
| 5 Simultaneous equations | Linear and non-linear pairs |
| 6 Logarithmic and exponential functions | Laws of logarithms, natural logs, solving exponential equations |
| 7 Straight-line graphs | Gradients, midpoints, converting non-linear relationships to straight lines |
| 8 Coordinate geometry of the circle | Equation of a circle, tangents, intersections |
| 9 Circular measure | Radians, arc length, sector area |
| 10 Trigonometry | Six trig functions, identities, equations, graphs |
| 11 Permutations and combinations | Arrangements and selections |
| 12 Series | Binomial expansion, arithmetic and geometric progressions |
| 13 Vectors in two dimensions | Position vectors, velocity, relative position |
| 14 Calculus | Differentiation, rates of change, stationary points, integration, kinematics |
Worked example 1: the discriminant and the factor theorem
Discriminant: find k so that kx² + 4x + (k − 3) = 0 has equal roots.
| Step | Working | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Equal roots need b² − 4ac = 0 | 16 − 4k(k − 3) = 0 | |
| Simplify | 4k² − 12k − 16 = 0, so k² − 3k − 4 = 0 | |
| Factorise | (k − 4)(k + 1) = 0 | k = -1 or k = 4 |
Factor theorem: show that (x − 3) is a factor of p(x) = 2x³ − 3x² − 11x + 6 and factorise fully.
| Step | Working | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Substitute x = 3 | 54 − 27 − 33 + 6 | p(3) = 0, so (x − 3) is a factor |
| Divide | p(x) = (x − 3)(2x² + 3x − 2) | |
| Factorise the quadratic | 2x² + 3x − 2 = (2x − 1)(x + 2) | p(x) = (x − 3)(2x − 1)(x + 2) |
Check: p(½) = 0 and p(−2) = 0. On the non-calculator paper, this kind of checking is quick and catches sign errors.
Worked example 2: logarithms and exponentials
Exponential equation: solve 3^(2x) = 20 to 4 decimal places.
| Step | Working | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Take logs of both sides | 2x ln 3 = ln 20 | |
| Rearrange | x = ln 20 ÷ (2 ln 3) | x = 1.3634 |
Log equation: solve log₂x + log₂(x − 2) = 3.
| Step | Working | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Combine the logs | log₂[x(x − 2)] = 3 | |
| Remove the log | x(x − 2) = 2³ = 8, so x² − 2x − 8 = 0 | (x − 4)(x + 2) = 0 |
| Reject invalid roots | x = −2 makes log₂x undefined | x = 4 |
Always check solutions in the original equation, because logs of negative numbers are undefined.
Worked example 3: radians and trigonometry
Circular measure: a sector has radius 8 cm and angle 1.2 radians.
| Quantity | Formula | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Arc length | rθ = 8 × 1.2 | 9.60 cm |
| Sector area | ½r²θ = ½ × 8² × 1.2 | 38.40 cm² |
Trig equation: solve tan x = 0.75 for 0° ≤ x ≤ 360°.
| Step | Working | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Principal value | x = tan⁻¹(0.75) | 36.87° |
| Tan repeats every 180° | 36.87° + 180° | 216.87° |
State every solution in the given range. Missing the second solution is one of the most common lost marks in 0606.
Worked example 4: permutations, combinations and the binomial theorem
| Question | Working | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| Arrange 5 of 8 different books in a row | ⁸P₅ = 8! ÷ 3! | 6,720 |
| Choose 3 of 8 students for a team | ⁸C₃ = 8! ÷ (3! × 5!) | 56 |
| Coefficient of x³ in (2 + x)⁶ | ⁶C₃ × 2³ = 20 × 8 | 160 |
Ask whether order matters: if it does, use permutations; if not, combinations. In binomial questions, remember to raise the constant term to the correct power, here 2³.
Worked example 5: arithmetic and geometric progressions
| Question | Working | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| AP with a = 5, d = 3: 20th term | a + 19d = 5 + 57 | 62 |
| Sum of the first 20 terms | S = n/2 (2a + (n − 1)d) = 10 × (10 + 57) | 670 |
| GP with a = 12, r = 1/3: sum to infinity | a ÷ (1 − r) = 12 ÷ (2/3) | 18 |
A sum to infinity exists only when −1 < r < 1. State this condition when the question asks you to justify it.
Worked example 6: calculus
Stationary points: find and classify the stationary points of y = x³ − 6x² + 9x + 2.
| Step | Working | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Differentiate | dy/dx = 3x² − 12x + 9 | |
| Set to zero | 3(x − 1)(x − 3) = 0 | x = 1 or x = 3 |
| Find y | y(1) = 6, y(3) = 2 | (1, 6) and (3, 2) |
| Second derivative | d²y/dx² = 6x − 12 | At x = 1: -6 (maximum); at x = 3: 6 (minimum) |
Integration: ∫ from 0 to 2 of (3x² + 2x) dx = [x³ + x²] from 0 to 2 = 8 + 4 = 12.
Chain rule: if y = (3x + 1)⁵, then dy/dx = 15(3x + 1)⁴, which equals 15 when x = 0.
Worked example 7: vectors and the circle
Velocity: a particle moves with velocity (3i + 4j) m/s. Its speed is √(3² + 4²) = 5 m/s, and its direction makes 53.13° with the i direction.
Circle: find the centre and radius of x² + y² − 6x + 4y − 12 = 0.
| Step | Working | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Complete the square in x and y | (x − 3)² − 9 + (y + 2)² − 4 − 12 = 0 | |
| Rearrange | (x − 3)² + (y + 2)² = 25 | Centre (3, -2), radius 5 |
Coordinate geometry of the circle is a newer topic in 0606, so expect it on recent papers.
What do examiners look for in 0606 answers?
Mark schemes for Additional Maths give method marks, accuracy marks and marks for correct reasoning, so how you present an answer matters as much as the final number.
| What examiners reward | How to show it |
|---|---|
| A correct method | Write the formula or rule you are using before substituting |
| Accurate working | Keep exact values, such as fractions, surds and logarithms, until the final step |
| Complete solutions | List every value in the given range, and reject invalid ones with a reason |
| Clear justification | For "show that" questions, end with the exact required result |
| Correct notation | Use dy/dx, vector notation and radian or degree units properly |
Because the syllabus says candidates must show all necessary working, an unsupported correct answer may not earn full marks. Practise writing solutions that a marker can follow line by line.
Where do students lose marks in IGCSE Additional Maths?
- Missing solutions to trigonometric and modulus equations within the given range.
- Degrees and radians mixed up; circular measure and calculus use radians.
- Not checking log solutions, leaving values that make a logarithm undefined.
- Non-calculator slips with fractions, negative numbers and exact values on Paper 1.
- Insufficient working: the syllabus says candidates must show all necessary working.
- Permutations versus combinations chosen wrongly.
- Binomial coefficients missing the power of the constant term.
- Stationary points found but not classified, or classification not justified.
- Integration constants forgotten in indefinite integrals.
- Vectors without correct notation or direction.
Is IGCSE Additional Maths hard, and is it worth it?
Additional Maths is harder than IGCSE Maths because it introduces A-level topics and expects precise algebra. Students who are secure on the Extended IGCSE Maths content usually manage it well, but it needs steady practice, especially for the non-calculator paper.
It is worth taking if you plan A-level Maths, Further Maths, engineering, physics, economics or computer science, because it covers ideas you will meet early in those courses. It is not the same qualification as Further Maths, and a separate IGCSE Further Pure Mathematics from another board has its own syllabus.
If you are not yet secure at IGCSE Maths, strengthen that first with the IGCSE Maths 0580 Extended course.
How should you prepare for the non-calculator Paper 1?
- Rebuild arithmetic: fractions, negative numbers, powers and long multiplication.
- Learn exact values: sin, cos and tan of 30°, 45° and 60° and their radian equivalents.
- Keep answers exact: leave surds, fractions and logarithms in exact form unless told otherwise.
- Practise algebraic checks, such as substituting roots back into equations.
- Time yourself: two hours for 80 marks gives about 1.5 minutes per mark.
- Use Paper 2 for confidence: solve each topic first with a calculator, then repeat without one.
How should you revise for 0606?
| Weeks before the exam | Focus |
|---|---|
| 12 to 10 | Functions, quadratics, polynomials, simultaneous equations |
| 9 to 7 | Logarithms, straight-line graphs, circles, radians |
| 6 to 4 | Trigonometry, permutations and combinations, series, vectors |
| 3 to 1 | Calculus, then full timed papers with and without a calculator |
Keep an error log and redo questions a week later. Topical past-paper questions build confidence before full papers.
Notes for students in India, Malaysia, Singapore and the Gulf
| Where you study | What to know |
|---|---|
| India | Cambridge schools offer 0606, with a March series available in India |
| Malaysia and Singapore | Additional Maths is widely taken; Cambridge 0606 is used in international schools |
| UAE, Qatar and the Gulf | Offered in many British-curriculum schools alongside IGCSE Maths |
| UK and Europe | Taken mainly in international schools; GCSE students may take a different further maths qualification |
Lessons are online, scheduled in your time zone, and follow the syllabus for your exam year.
How does Additional Maths connect to other courses?
- IGCSE Maths 0580 Extended is the foundation Additional Maths builds on.
- IGCSE International Maths 0607 Extended for students on that route.
- AQA Level 2 Further Maths covers similar ground for UK GCSE students.
- Maths tutoring supports A-level and university study afterwards.
Additional Maths gives a head start in A-level calculus, trigonometry and series.
How do the lessons work, and what do you get?
Lessons are live, one-to-one video sessions with a verified maths tutor and a shared whiteboard.
What you get: - A plan mapped to the 0606 syllabus and your exam series. - Step-by-step teaching of all 14 topics. - Non-calculator practice for Paper 1 and calculator practice for Paper 2. - Past-paper questions marked against the mark scheme. - Exam technique for showing working and finding every solution.
How to start: book a lesson from this page or ask a question first. The price is shown on this page before you book, and you pay only for the lessons you choose.
Who is this IGCSE Additional Maths course for?
- Strong IGCSE Maths students taking 0606 alongside or after 0580.
- Students aiming for A or A* who need precise technique.
- Students planning A-level Maths or a maths-based degree.
- Private candidates preparing outside school.
Prerequisites: secure IGCSE Maths Extended content, especially algebra.
| Stage | Focus | Afterwards you can |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Functions, quadratics, polynomials | Manipulate algebra confidently |
| 2 | Logs, graphs and circles | Solve exponential and coordinate problems |
| 3 | Radians and trigonometry | Solve trig equations and identities |
| 4 | Combinatorics, series and vectors | Handle counting, progressions and motion |
| 5 | Calculus and exam practice | Differentiate, integrate and complete full papers |
Book a lesson or ask a question from this page to start.
IGCSE Additional Maths 0606: Cambridge (CIE): frequently asked questions
What is IGCSE Additional Maths 0606?
Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics 0606 is an extension to IGCSE Maths for confident students. It introduces A-level topics such as functions, logarithms, radians, trigonometric identities, the binomial theorem, vectors and calculus. It is assessed by two 2-hour papers and awards grades A* to E.
How many papers are in IGCSE Additional Maths?
There are two compulsory papers. Paper 1 is taken without a calculator and Paper 2 requires a scientific calculator. Each lasts 2 hours, carries 80 marks and is worth 50%. Both papers cover any part of the syllabus with structured and unstructured questions.
Is Paper 1 of Additional Maths non-calculator?
Yes. Since the syllabus for examination from 2025, Paper 1 of Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics is taken without a calculator. Paper 2 requires a scientific calculator. Students need strong arithmetic, exact trigonometric values and careful algebra to do well on Paper 1.
What grades are available in IGCSE Additional Maths?
Grades A* to E are available. Grades F and G are not offered, so candidates who do not reach the minimum mark for grade E are unclassified. Grade thresholds are set after each series, so check Cambridge's published thresholds for your series.
What topics are in IGCSE Additional Maths?
The 14 topics are functions, quadratic functions, factors of polynomials, equations and inequalities, simultaneous equations, logarithms and exponentials, straight-line graphs, coordinate geometry of the circle, circular measure, trigonometry, permutations and combinations, series, vectors and calculus. Any topic can appear on either paper, so all of them need regular practice.
What changed in the 0606 syllabus from 2025?
From 2025, Paper 1 became a non-calculator paper, coordinate geometry of the circle was added, and indices and surds became assumed knowledge rather than a separate topic. The formula list, command words and conventions were also updated. The 2028 to 2030 syllabus makes no significant changes to teaching.
Is a formula sheet given in IGCSE Additional Maths?
Yes. Cambridge provides a list of formulas in the 0606 examinations, which was updated for the current syllabus. You still need to know when and how to use each result, and many standard techniques, such as differentiation rules, must be learned rather than looked up.
Is IGCSE Additional Maths hard?
It is harder than IGCSE Maths because it introduces A-level topics and demands precise algebra, especially without a calculator on Paper 1. Students secure in the Extended IGCSE Maths content usually manage well with regular practice. Trigonometry, calculus and logarithms are the topics students find most challenging.
Is Additional Maths worth taking?
Yes, for students planning A-level Maths, Further Maths, engineering, physics, economics or computer science. It covers calculus, trigonometry and series that appear early in A-level courses, giving a head start. It also shows universities and sixth forms strong mathematical ability.
Is Additional Maths the same as Further Maths?
No. Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics 0606 is its own qualification. Further Maths qualifications, such as A-level Further Maths or other boards' further pure maths courses, have different syllabuses and levels. Some topics overlap, but check the exact qualification your school offers.
Can I take Additional Maths without IGCSE Maths?
Cambridge expects 0606 candidates to know the Extended IGCSE Maths content, so most students take 0580 first or at the same time. You can enter 0606 on its own, but without a secure base in algebra and geometry the course becomes much harder.
When are the IGCSE Additional Maths exams?
Cambridge runs 0606 exams in the June and November series, with an additional March series in India. Exact dates are in the Cambridge timetable for each series. Check with your exam centre which series you are entered for and plan revision backwards from that date.
How do I solve trigonometric equations in 0606?
Find the principal value with the inverse function, then use the symmetry and period of the graph to find every other solution in the given range. For tan, add 180 degrees or pi radians. Always check the range and units, because missing solutions is a common error.
How do I find stationary points in calculus?
Differentiate, set the derivative equal to zero and solve for x, then substitute to find y. Classify each point using the second derivative: positive means a minimum and negative means a maximum. Show the derivative values clearly, because classification marks need justification.
Can a tutor help with IGCSE Additional Maths?
Yes. A one-to-one tutor can teach each technique step by step, build non-calculator fluency for Paper 1, and work through past-paper questions with you. Feedback on your working helps you avoid common losses such as missing solutions, invalid log roots and unclassified stationary points.
How much does an IGCSE Additional Maths tutor cost?
The hourly rate depends on the tutor and lesson length. On FLN Tutors the price is shown on the course page before you book, and you pay only for the lessons you choose, with no subscription. You can ask a question first for advice on how many lessons you need.
How should I revise for IGCSE Additional Maths?
Work through the topics in order, starting with algebra and functions, then logarithms, trigonometry, series, vectors and calculus. Practise each topic with and without a calculator, keep an error log, and finish with full timed papers. Short daily practice works better than cramming.
Do I need Additional Maths for A-level Maths?
It is not usually required, but it is very helpful. Many topics, including functions, logarithms, trigonometric identities, the binomial theorem and calculus, appear in the first year of A-level Maths. Students who have studied 0606 often find the transition to A-level much smoother.
Is Additional Maths popular in Malaysia and India?
Yes. Additional Mathematics is widely taken in Malaysia and Singapore, and Cambridge 0606 is offered by many international schools in India, where a March series is also available. Students in the Gulf take it in British-curriculum schools alongside IGCSE Maths.
Can I study IGCSE Additional Maths online?
Yes. Lessons are live one-to-one video sessions with a shared whiteboard, so you can study from India, Malaysia, Singapore, the UAE or anywhere else, in your own time zone. Tutors follow the 0606 syllabus for your exam year and series.
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