Exam · Code 3472
SPM Add Math Papers & Format
SPM Additional Mathematics (3472) is examined by two papers: Paper 1 (2 hours, 80 marks) and Paper 2 (2 hours 30 minutes, 100 marks). There is no Paper 3.
The format at a glance
| Paper 1 (3472/1) | Paper 2 (3472/2) | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 hours | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Total marks | 80 marks | 100 marks |
| Section A | 12 questions · 64 marks · answer all questions | 7 questions · 50 marks · answer all questions |
| Section B | 3 questions · 16 marks · answer 2 questions | 4 questions · 30 marks · answer 3 questions |
| Section C | Not applicable | 4 questions · 20 marks · answer 2 questions |
How it is marked
Marking is analytic, you earn marks for correct method and working, not only for the final answer. That is why showing every step clearly matters, especially in Paper 2.
Both papers use limited-response subjective and structured items, and you may use a non-programmable scientific calculator.
Method marks
A wrong final answer can still earn most of the marks if your method is shown clearly, a habit worth building.
Difficulty balance
Items are built to a low : medium : high difficulty ratio of 5 : 3 : 2, so most marks are within reach with solid method, and a smaller share rewards the hardest problem-solving.
What this means for how you prepare
The shape of the exam should shape your revision. Because the marks are spread fairly evenly across the whole syllabus and split analytically across the steps of each solution, the highest-return preparation is rarely dramatic: make the routine question types automatic so they cost seconds rather than minutes, keep your written working clear enough that a marker can award every step, and practise full papers under real timing so that pacing and exam technique are rehearsed rather than discovered on the day.
The 5 : 3 : 2 difficulty balance means most marks are within reach with solid method, so a plan that secures the routine and middle-difficulty marks first, before chasing the hardest problem-solving, usually lifts a total faster than the reverse. The pages in this section go deeper into each part of that: the two papers and their sections, command words, and how method marks are actually awarded.
Read them alongside the syllabus and the formula list.
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Book a Trial ClassFrequently asked questions
How many papers are there for SPM Add Math?
Two, Paper 1 and Paper 2. There is no Paper 3.
What are method marks?
Marks for correct steps and method, even if the final answer is wrong, which is why showing working matters.
Source:SRC-FORMAT