You don't need to remember quadratic equations to help your child revise for GCSE maths. What helps most is a steady routine, past papers, and spotting problems early.
1. Start early and keep it small
Short, regular sessions beat last-minute cramming. Aim for 20–30 minutes of maths, four or five days a week, starting in the autumn of Year 11 (or earlier for Foundation-to-Higher moves).
2. Use past papers
Past papers are the best revision tool. Ask your child to do one paper every week or two, then go through the mark scheme together. Look for topics that keep losing marks.
3. Make a topic list
Ask your child to rate each topic (number, algebra, ratio, geometry, probability, statistics) as green, amber or red. Revision time goes to the red topics first.
4. Help without teaching
- Ask them to explain a question to you. Explaining shows whether they really understand it.
- Keep a quiet place to work and a revision timetable on the wall.
- Praise effort and consistency, not only marks.
5. When a tutor helps
A tutor is worth considering if your child is stuck on the same topics for weeks, is on a grade boundary (for example 3/4 or 6/7), or has lost confidence. One lesson a week focused on the red topics is usually enough.
Find maths tutors who teach GCSE, or read our guide to choosing a tutor.
