I had a longer look at the 2021 Eton KS Maths A paper. 100 marks 90 minutes with a description “Answer all of Section I and as many questions as you can from Section II”. So section II may not be designed to be answered fully. So time management is critical, i.e. knowing when to move on to the next question.

In my opinion, well-rehearsed multiplying / fraction skills is essential to fly through Section I to make more time for the comprehension-type questions, which are expressed in algebraic equations and solved quickly.

Which topics are surprising? There is a question on recurring numbers and introducing algebra on that. I think that is quite difficult for a 13-year-old to solve. There is a discrete Maths question which is always fun to solve.

Which topics are expected? The examiners like to use root numbers, as they work well with Pythagoras’s Theorem, which lead’s to triangles, and other shapes. In addition please see below a list of the common topics to prepare 2021 Eton KS Maths A:

• Everything to do with fractions (multiplication / division / simplification etc)
• Order of operations, brackets, multiplication, division, addition, subtractions.
• Algebras, brackets and multiplying out.
• Inequalities – I need time to verify the direction of the inequality
• Similar shapes
• Ratios
• Geometries, how Isosceles triangles can be formed in circle by the radius.
• Sequence derivation.

The sheer number of questions is high. Therefore total concentration for 90 minutes will be tough for anyone. The paper could be designed to be not completable. There is always a first time for everything. Any child who can complete this paper correctly will be gifted.