OCR A Level Maths Worked Solutions: How to Use Them to Get Top Grades

OCR A Level Maths Worked Solutions: How to Use Them to Get Top Grades

If you’re studying OCR A Level Maths, you’ll already know that understanding the mark scheme is just as important as knowing the maths itself. Many students revise by doing questions — but still lose marks because their method doesn’t match what the examiner is looking for.

That’s where fully worked OCR A Level Maths solutions make a huge difference.

In this post, you’ll learn:

  • Why OCR Maths requires a specific answering style

  • How worked solutions actually improve exam performance

  • The right way to use solved examples (most students get this wrong)


Why OCR A Level Maths Is Different

OCR A Level Maths questions are designed to test method, structure, and communication, not just final answers.

Common OCR-specific issues students face:

  • Losing marks for missing method steps

  • Using correct maths but wrong presentation

  • Not linking answers clearly to the question

  • Weak justification in mechanics and statistics

Reading a textbook solution often isn’t enough — textbooks don’t always follow OCR examiner logic.


What Are OCR A Level Maths Worked Solutions?

Worked solutions are step-by-step model answers written in the same structure OCR examiners expect.

Good worked solutions:

  • Show every method mark clearly

  • Use correct OCR-style notation

  • Include reasoning, not just calculations

  • Match real exam questions

They don’t just show what to do — they show how to write it in the exam.


How Worked Solutions Help You Gain Marks

Using high-quality OCR Maths solutions helps you:

✅ Understand examiner expectations

You learn exactly how much working is needed — no more guessing.

✅ Avoid common mistakes

Seeing incorrect approaches explained helps prevent repeat errors.

✅ Improve exam technique

You start writing answers in a way that naturally earns method marks.

✅ Revise more efficiently

Instead of struggling blindly, you compare your attempt with a perfect answer.


How to Use Worked Solutions Properly (Very Important)

Most students misuse worked solutions. Here’s the correct method:

Step 1: Attempt the question first

Even if you only get partway — always try.

Step 2: Compare line by line

Check structure, not just calculations.

Step 3: Rewrite the solution

Write it out yourself without copying word-for-word.

Step 4: Reattempt a similar question

This is where real improvement happens.

Using solutions passively won’t help — active comparison is key.


Are Worked Solutions Better Than Video Tutorials?

Both have value, but worked solutions are often better for OCR Maths because:

  • Exams are written, not spoken

  • Mark schemes reward structure

  • You can revisit steps quickly

  • You learn how to present answers

Many top-grade students use worked solutions first, then videos only for difficult concepts.


Who Should Use OCR A Level Maths Worked Solutions?

Worked solutions are ideal for:

  • Year 12 students building strong foundations

  • Year 13 students preparing for exams

  • Students retaking A Level Maths

  • Independent learners without a tutor

They’re especially useful close to exams, when exam technique matters most.


Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about improving your OCR A Level Maths grade, don’t just practise questions — practise exam-quality answers.

High-quality OCR A Level Maths worked solutions help you:

  • Learn faster

  • Lose fewer marks

  • Walk into exams with confidence

👉 Explore our fully solved OCR A Level Maths solutions, written to match the specification and examiner expectations.