Making the Most of E Math and A Math Formula Sheets
Students taking their O Level exams face the challenge of memorising a vast array of information across various subjects, from chemistry to geography. So, when they turn to the first page of their E Math and A Math exam papers and find a list of mathematical formulas, it often brings a palpable sense of relief and reassurance. However, can this comfort lead to misplaced complacency? How can students aiming for high scores optimise using these formula sheets in the competitive landscape of Singapore’s O Level examinations?
Formula Sheets Are Not a Panacea
Careful consideration is needed to maximise the benefits of the formula sheets provided for E-Math and A-Math exams. A common misconception is that a formula on the sheet eliminates the need to remember or understand its applications. In fact, the opposite is often true.
Take, for instance, the formula for compound interest in E Math. Although it appears readily available on the formula sheet, most questions involve non-annual compounding periods such as quarterly or monthly. To apply the formula correctly, students must learn how to adjust it based on the number of compounding periods within a year. A superficial understanding of the formulas can lead to conceptual mistakes and incorrect answers.
The same caution applies to A Math. Students should not fall into a false sense of security because of the numerous trigonometric identities on the formula sheet. While these identities are undoubtedly helpful, many questions—especially those that require proof—demand a deep familiarity with them, far exceeding a last-minute effort to read and recall them. For example, encountering “sin θ cos θ” in a question should prompt students to immediately consider applying the sine double angle formula in reverse.
Other scenarios may require students to convert “sin² θ” to “cos 2θ.” Here, a simplistic understanding of the formula sheet will usually not be enough to solve the question successfully. Particularly with the cosine double angle formulas, where three different versions exist, many students struggle to apply the correct formula promptly, leading to insufficient time to complete the exam.
This is not to downplay the assistance that formula sheets provide. Indeed, knowing how to effectively utilise these formulas can significantly enhance students’ problem-solving speed and accuracy. At Mavis Tutorial Centre, our teachers in the Secondary Math Program take pride in teaching the nuances of these concepts and highlighting optimal strategies to leverage the formulas when tackling challenging questions.
Limitations of the Formula Sheets
Ironically, an essential aspect of applying the information in the formula sheets is knowing which critical formulas are not included.
For example, notable exclusions from both E Math and A Math include the eight laws of indices, the three basic algebraic identities, and the broad range of circle properties. Additionally, numerous essential techniques cannot be distilled into a single formula. These include completing the square in quadratic expressions and the complexities of matrix multiplication.
In A Math, even though trigonometry occupies more than half of the formula sheet, several crucial identities and concepts—such as complementary angles and the values of unique angles—still necessitate memorisation. For other topics, essential formulas that need to be memorised include those for calculating the area of a polygon in coordinate geometry and the product, quotient, and chain rules in differentiation. In fact, the formula sheet for A Math represents only a tiny fraction of the concepts that students need to internalise and apply.
Students enrolling in Mavis’ Secondary Math Program can expect to strengthen their competencies in these areas where the formula sheets fall short. Our dedicated teachers emphasise which areas to prioritise, drilling the crucial concepts through focused practice sessions.
Differences Between E Math and A Math Formula Sheets
Upon inspecting both formula sheets, it becomes evident that they share only three formulas in common: the sine rule, the cosine rule, and the trigonometric method for calculating the area of a triangle.
Many A Math formulas are not covered in E Math, which explains why they are not included in the E Math formula sheet. On the other hand, A Math uses many formulas from E Math. Consequently, A Math students should pay special attention to specific formulas in the E Math sheet, particularly those about the surface area and volume of cones and spheres. Some schools test students on these concepts, necessitating memorisation of these formulas to solve relevant questions correctly.
One unusual inclusion in the A Math formula sheet is the quadratic formula, typically used when a quadratic expression cannot be factored. Ironically, this formula is missing from the E Math sheet, despite its equal, if not more significant, importance in E Math. Perhaps this is intended to alleviate some of the memorisation burden for A Math students. However, this does not provide much assistance since students still need to commit the formula to memory for the E-Math exam.
Final Tips
In conclusion, familiarity with the E Math and A Math formula sheets is essential for quickly identifying the correct formula during exams. Students must comprehend the formulas and how to adapt them to various scenarios, ensuring they can apply them correctly. Additionally, recognising which critical formulas are excluded from the sheets allows students to target their memorisation efforts effectively.
Mavis Tutorial Centre is dedicated to helping students master these vital skills. Our experienced instructors in our Secondary Math Program focus on deepening students’ understanding of mathematical concepts and techniques, providing tailored practice sessions that reinforce their learning.
Students can confidently tackle exam challenges by honing their problem-solving abilities and familiarity with both formula sheets. With the proper guidance and targeted preparation, students will be well-equipped to turn formula sheets into powerful tools that significantly enhance their performance in the O Level exams.