0580 Syllabus 2026, Check Cambridge IGCS Mathematics PDF

The Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) syllabus for 2026 is designed to develop mathematical knowledge, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills in students. It provides a solid foundation for further studies in mathematics and related disciplines. The syllabus is structured into two tiers: Core and Extended, allowing students to choose the level that best suits their abilities and future academic goals.

The Core curriculum covers fundamental topics such as numbers, algebra, geometry, mensuration, statistics, and probability, ensuring students grasp essential mathematical concepts. The Extended curriculum builds on these topics with more depth and complexity, preparing students for advanced studies.

0580 Syllabus 2026

The assessment consists of four papers: Paper 1 and Paper 3 for Core candidates, and Paper 2 and Paper 4 for Extended candidates. These papers evaluate students’ proficiency in problem-solving, analytical thinking, and applying mathematical concepts to real-world situations.

The 0580 syllabus 2026 aligns with international standards, promoting critical thinking and practical application. It encourages students to develop confidence in using mathematics for everyday and academic purposes. Mastering the syllabus will equip students with essential skills for careers in science, engineering, finance, and technology.

With a well-structured approach, the Cambridge IGCSE 0580 syllabus ensures a comprehensive and engaging learning experience for students worldwide.

The 0580 syllabus refers to the Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) syllabus for 2026. Below is a detailed outline of the syllabus:

Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics 0580 Syllabus 2026

Overview

The syllabus is designed for students preparing for the Core or Extended curriculum. The Core curriculum covers fundamental concepts, while the Extended curriculum includes more complex topics for students aiming for higher grades.

Number

• Integers, fractions, decimals, and percentages
• Ordering numbers and standard form
• Indices and surds (Extended only)
• Ratio, proportion, and direct/inverse variation
• Estimation and bounds

Algebra

• Algebraic expressions, expansion, and factorization
• Linear and quadratic equations
• Simultaneous equations (linear & quadratic in Extended)
• Sequences (arithmetic, geometric)
• Functions, graphs, and inequalities
• Algebraic fractions and their simplification (Extended)

Geometry

• Properties of angles, lines, and shapes
• Symmetry (line and rotational)
• Congruence and similarity
• Pythagoras’ theorem and trigonometry (sine, cosine, tangent)
• Circles (chords, tangents, and angles)
• Vectors and transformations

Mensuration

• Area and perimeter of shapes
• Surface area and volume of 3D solids (cylinders, cones, spheres in Extended)
• Arc length and sector area (Extended)

Co-ordinate Geometry

• Graphs of linear and quadratic functions
• Distance between two points
• Midpoint and gradient of a line
• Equation of a straight line

Trigonometry

• Sine, cosine, and tangent ratios
• Trigonometric calculations in right-angled triangles
• Sine and cosine rules (Extended)
• Area of a triangle using trigonometry (Extended)
• Graphs of sine, cosine, and tangent functions

Statistics and Probability

• Mean, median, mode, and range
• Frequency tables and histograms
• Probability rules and tree diagrams (Extended)
• Cumulative frequency and box plots (Extended)
• Standard deviation (Extended)

Matrices and Transformations (Extended only)

• Matrix operations and inverses
• Transformations (reflection, rotation, translation, enlargement)

Functions and Calculus (Extended only)

• Function notation and inverse functions
• Differentiation (basic calculus)
• Gradients and stationary points
• Applications of differentiation (tangents, normals)

0580 Examination Structure

Students can take either Core or Extended papers:

Core (Grades C-G)

• Paper 1: Multiple-choice (35%)
• Paper 3: Structured questions (65%)

Extended (Grades A-E)*

• Paper 2: Multiple-choice (35%)
• Paper 4: Structured questions (65%)

1. Number
2. Algebra and Graphs
3. Coordinate Geometry
4. Geometry
5. Mensuration
6. Trigonometry
7. Transformations and Vectors
8. Probability
9. Statistics

1. Number

Core Topics:

• Understanding and using various types of numbers, including natural numbers, integers, fractions, decimals, and percentages.
• Performing calculations involving the four basic operations and applying the correct order of operations.
• Rounding numbers to a specified number of decimal places or significant figures.
• Understanding and applying concepts of ratio, proportion, and rate.
• Calculating with money and converting between different currencies.

Extended Topics:

• Working with surds, including simplifying expressions and rationalizing denominators.
• Applying concepts of upper and lower bounds in calculations.
• Solving problems involving compound interest and exponential growth and decay.

2. Algebra and Graphs

Core Topics:

• Using letters to represent generalized numbers and substituting numbers into expressions and formulas.
• Simplifying expressions by collecting like terms and expanding products of algebraic expressions.
• Solving linear equations in one unknown and constructing simple equations and formulas.
• Representing inequalities on a number line.
• Continuing and finding patterns in sequences.
• Constructing tables of values and drawing graphs for functions like $y=mx+c$.

Extended Topics:

• Solving simultaneous linear equations in two unknowns.
• Changing the subject of complex formulas.
• Solving quadratic equations by factorization, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula.
• Understanding and using indices, including negative and fractional indices.
• Working with functions, including understanding domain and range, and using function notation.

3. Coordinate Geometry

Core Topics:

• Using and interpreting Cartesian coordinates in two dimensions.
• Drawing straight-line graphs for linear equations.
• Determining the equation of a straight line in the form $y=mx+c$.

Extended Topics:

• Finding the gradient of a straight line from its equation.
• Calculating the length and midpoint of a line segment.
• Finding the equation of a straight line parallel or perpendicular to a given line.

4. Geometry

Core Topics:

• Using and interpreting geometrical terms and facts, including properties of angles, triangles, quadrilaterals, and polygons.
• Calculating unknown angles using properties of angles at a point, on a straight line, and intersecting lines.
• Understanding and using the properties of parallel lines, circles, and polygons.
• Recognizing and describing transformations such as reflections, rotations, translations, and enlargements.

Extended Topics:

• Applying circle theorems to calculate unknown angles.
• Understanding and using the properties of similar and congruent shapes.
• Recognizing and describing combinations of transformations.

5. Mensuration

Core Topics:

• Calculating perimeters and areas of various shapes, including rectangles, triangles, and circles.
• Calculating volumes and surface areas of solids like cuboids, cylinders, and spheres.

Extended Topics:

• Solving problems involving arc length and sector area of a circle.
• Calculating surface areas and volumes of more complex solids, including pyramids, cones, and composite shapes.

6. Trigonometry

Core Topics:

• Applying Pythagoras’ theorem.
• Using sine, cosine, and tangent ratios to calculate sides and angles in right-angled triangles.

Extended Topics:

• Using the sine and cosine rules in non-right-angled triangles.
• Calculating the area of a triangle using 12absin⁡C\frac{1}{2}ab\sin C21​absinC.
• Solving simple trigonometric equations within a specified range.

7. Transformations and Vectors

Core Topics:

• Recognizing and describing transformations such as reflections, rotations, translations, and enlargements.
• Describing a translation using a vector.

Extended Topics:

• Combining transformations.
• Using matrix representations of transformations.
• Performing calculations with vectors, including addition, subtraction, and multiplication by scalars.

8. Probability

Core Topics:

• Understanding and using the probability scale from 0 to 1.
• Calculating the probability of a single event.
• Understanding that the probability of an event not occurring is 1 minus the probability of it occurring.

Extended Topics:

• Calculating the probability of combined events using the addition and multiplication rules.
• Using tree diagrams to represent and calculate probabilities.

Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics PDF

Download the Cambridge IGCSE Maths PDF by clicking on the link.

cambridge 0580 syllabus PDF

How to Cover the Cambridge 0580 Syllabus Easily?

practical, easy-to-follow strategy to cover the Cambridge IGCSE **Mathematics 0580 syllabus effectively (whether you’re aiming for Core or Extended).

Understand the Syllabus Deeply

Before you start studying, download and read the official Cambridge 0580 syllabus PDF. It shows all topics you must learn — nothing more, nothing less. Make a checklist of these topics so you can tick them off as you cover them.

Key Topic Areas Include:

• Number (fractions, percentages, standard form)

• Algebra and graphs

• Geometry and coordinate geometry

• Mensuration, trigonometry

• Probability & statistics

• Transformations & vectors (Extended)

Tip: Print the syllabus or use a digital copy and cross off topics as you finish them — this keeps revision focused and prevents wasted effort.

Make a Smart Study Plan

Plan by Topic

Create a weekly timetable dedicating each day/week to specific syllabus topics. For example:

• Week 1–2: Number & algebra basics

• Week 3–4: Geometry & coordinate geometry

• Week 5: Probability & statistics

• Week 6: Trigonometry & mixed revision

In each study block:

• Read theory or watch videos

• Do example problems to understand methods

• Move to exam-style questions once comfortable

Focus on understanding how topics connect — this is especially important for applying maths in real exam questions.

Practice Past Papers- The Most Important Step

Past papers are the BEST way to prepare for 0580 because:

• They reflect actual exam style and difficulty.

• They expose you to real question patterns you’ll see on test day.

How to Use Past Papers Effectively:
Start with topic-wise questions (so you practice specific skills).
Once basic confidence is built, do full past papers under timed conditions.
Always check the mark scheme to understand how marks are awarded.

Tip: Keep a mistake log — write down errors and revisit them later. This helps avoid repeating the same mistakes.

Focus on Weak Points with Targeted Practice

After a few papers, you’ll notice which areas are harder for you (e.g., trigonometry, probability, graphs).
Spend extra time reviewing those topics with:

• Short topic videos

• Extra practice questions

• Notes you create yourself

Understanding why you make mistakes is a huge step toward scoring better.

Learn the Exam Skills Too

In Maths exams, you gain marks not just by knowing the answer but by showing your working clearly (especially for partial marks).

 Exam Skills to Build:

• Check answers after finishing

• Use calculator efficiently on calculator papers

• Structure answers neatly

• Time management — don’t get stuck on any one question

Recommended Resources

Here are types of materials that help:

• Official syllabus (your study checklist)

• Past papers + mark schemes — available on Cambridge’s website

• Interactive learner guides — explain assessment & revision tips

• Topic-wise revision notes or video lessons (YouTube channels focused on IGCSE or Cambridge Maths)

• Practice problem banks to reinforce concepts

Track Your Progress

Keep a simple tracker:
✔ Topic completed
✔ Problems practiced
✔ Past paper scores
✔ Mistakes identified

Review this weekly and adjust your plan — this leads to steady improvement and reduces last-minute stress.

Final Checklist

• Read and understand the official syllabus
• Build a weekly plan with topic + practice blocks
• Do plenty of past papers
• Review mistakes and weak areas
• Practice exam skills (timing, presentation)

FAQs

The Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580) syllabus has undergone several updates for the 2025–2027 examination series. Below are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding these changes:

1. What are the significant changes in the 0580 syllabus for 2025–2027?

The syllabus has been updated to improve clarity and assessment methods. Notable changes include the introduction of a non-calculator paper at each tier, rebalancing of examination papers for better accessibility, and updates to subject content with some topics added and others removed.

2. Which topics have been added or removed in the updated syllabus?

In the Extended curriculum, topics such as surds, domain and range, and exact trigonometric values have been added. Conversely, topics like linear programming, box-and-whisker plots, and congruence criteria have been removed.

3. How has the assessment structure changed?

A non-calculator assessment has been introduced at each tier to enhance candidates’ mathematical problem-solving skills without reliance on a calculator. Additionally, the examination papers have been rebalanced to provide improved accessibility and a better candidate experience.

4. Will there be a formula sheet provided during the exam?

For assessments held from now onwards, a formula sheet is provided on page 2 of the Mathematics examinations. Students are expected to memorize all other formulas that are not on the sheet, such as the volume of a cube.

5. Are there any changes to the use of calculators in the exam?

Yes, with the introduction of a non-calculator paper, students will need to enhance their mental math skills and learn shortcuts to perform calculations efficiently without a calculator.

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