VCE Mathematical Methods and Specialist Mathematics: how to approach Exam 1 and Exam 2
VCE Mathematical Methods and Specialist Mathematics each have two exams. Exam 1 is technology-free, worth 40 marks in 1 hour, and no notes are allowed. Exam 2 allows an approved CAS calculator and one bound reference, and has 20 multiple-choice questions and 60 marks of extended response in 2 hours. Practise them differently: exact algebra and clear setting out for Exam 1, and knowing when to use the CAS (and when not to) for Exam 2.
This guide covers Mathematical Methods and Specialist Mathematics, which share the same two-exam pattern. For General Mathematics, check the VCAA for its separate format.
The two exams
| Exam 1 | Exam 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | None | Approved CAS and one bound reference |
| Marks | 40 | 80 (20 multiple choice, 60 extended response) |
| Writing time | 1 hour | 2 hours |
| Reading time | 15 minutes for each exam | |
Check the VCAA's exam page each year, because rules about materials and technology can change.
Exam 1: exact, clear working
- Know your exact values, algebra and calculus rules cold.
- Show every step. Marks follow the working.
- Simplify answers, and check by substituting back when you can.
Exam 2: use the technology wisely
- Learn the CAS commands you will use most, such as solve, integrate and the probability functions, until they are automatic.
- Know when not to use it. Simple algebra is often faster by hand.
- Write the setup and the result so marks are available even if a key press is wrong.
- Build your bound reference from your own error log and worked templates, not a copy of the textbook.
Timing
Exam 2 gives 2 hours for 80 marks, which is 1.5 minutes a mark. A 4-mark question should take about 6 minutes. Practise with a clock so that pacing is a habit.
Revision structure
- Work through topics, fixing the weakest first.
- Do timed sections of past-style papers.
- Sit full exams in exam conditions and compare working line by line with a worked solution.
- Keep an error log and retry mistakes after a few days.
A good study score comes from steady practice and careful review. Note too that the VTAC applies scaling after your results are in, so choose subjects you can do well in.
Common questions
Can I take notes into Exam 1?
No. Exam 1 for Methods and Specialist is technology-free and closed-book, and a formula sheet is provided. Check the VCAA's current exam rules.
What can I bring into Exam 2?
An approved CAS calculator or software and one approved bound reference, within the VCAA rules for the year. Check the VCAA's current instructions before the exam.
What about General Mathematics?
General Mathematics has its own exam structure and technology rules. Check the VCAA's exam page for the current details.