Many IB students in Hong Kong spend long hours revising Maths, yet see little improvement. The issue is rarely effort. It’s ineffective revision techniques.
At Mathzem, we help students replace passive revision with strategic, exam-focused methods that actually improve scores. This guide breaks down the IB Maths revision techniques that work, and explains how to apply them efficiently for both SL and HL, across AA and AI.
Table of Contents
Why Most IB Maths Revision Fails
Common revision habits that don’t work:
- Re-reading notes
- Watching videos passively
- Rewriting formulas
- Doing random questions
These methods feel productive but do little to improve exam performance.
Effective revision must be:
- Active
- Targeted
- Exam-focused
Technique 1: Prioritise High-Value Topics
Not all topics carry equal weight.
Strong students:
- Identify frequently tested topics
- Focus revision on weak areas
- Allocate time based on mark potential
This ensures maximum return on effort.
Technique 2: Use Past Papers Strategically
Past papers are the most powerful revision tool, when used correctly.
Effective use means:
- Doing papers under timed conditions
- Marking strictly using mark schemes
- Analysing why marks were lost
Simply completing papers without reflection is ineffective.
Technique 3: Master Method Marks
As explained in how IB Maths is marked, most marks come from method, not answers.
Revision should include:
- Writing full solutions
- Practising clear layouts
- Explaining steps
This directly improves exam scores.
Technique 4: Error-Based Revision
High-performing Hong Kong students:
- Keep an error log
- Categorise mistakes
- Revisit them regularly
Fixing recurring errors is far more effective than learning new content repeatedly.
Technique 5: Timed Topic Practice
Instead of full papers every time:
- Practise individual topics under time pressure
- Simulate exam stress
- Improve pacing
This reduces panic on exam day.
Technique 6: Active Recall of Methods
Rather than memorising formulas:
- Recall when and why to use them
- Practise setting up questions from scratch
Understanding methods beats memorisation.
Technique 7: Build a Realistic Revision Timetable
Effective timetables:
- Are flexible
- Balance Maths with other subjects
- Include rest
Overloaded schedules lead to burnout and mistakes.
Revision Differences: SL vs HL
SL Students
Focus on:
- Accuracy
- Core techniques
- Avoiding silly mistakes
HL Students
Focus on:
- Multi-step reasoning
- Clear communication
- Managing longer questions
Both levels benefit from method-focused revision.
AA vs AI: Adjusting Your Revision
Maths AA
Prioritise:
- Algebraic manipulation
- Calculus fluency
- Symbolic reasoning
Maths AI
Prioritise:
- Interpretation
- Statistics explanations
- Context-based questions
Revision should always reflect course demands.
How Mathzem Helps Students Revise Smarter
At Mathzem, we help Hong Kong IB students:
- Build personalised revision plans
- Identify high-impact weaknesses
- Practise exam technique
- Reduce stress and improve confidence
Smart revision beats long hours.
Explore Mathzem membership and pricing options:
https://mathzem.com/membership-pricing/
FAQs IB Maths Revision Techniques
Q1: How many hours should I revise IB Maths daily?
Quality matters more than quantity, 1–2 focused hours is often enough.
Q2: Should I revise Maths every day?
Yes, but with variation to avoid fatigue.
Q3: Are past papers enough for revision?
Only if analysed properly.
Q4: Is it too late to improve close to exams?
No, targeted revision can still make a big difference.
Q5: Can tutoring help improve revision efficiency?
Yes, structured guidance saves time.
Conclusion
Effective IB Maths revision is not about doing more, it’s about doing what works. Hong Kong students who revise actively, focus on mistakes, and practise under exam conditions consistently outperform those who rely on passive methods.
Revise smarter, not longer.
If you want expert help creating a personalised IB Maths revision plan, Mathzem is ready to support you.
View membership and pricing options:
https://mathzem.com/membership-pricing/
