2026 · practice · Mathematical Literacy · Grade 11

Grade 11 Mathematical Literacy — Gauteng style practice

Notes

Answer all questions. Show a formula, substitution and a final answer with units. Calculators allowed. VAT is 15% unless stated.

90 min · 76 Marks · 30 questions

Learn the paper in the app: notes, a marks breakdown, the formula you need, and the board working. You do not need to download it.

Sit it timed Formula sheet

Question breakdown

1.1 · 2 Marks · Simple and compound interest
Simple interest on R3 000 at 12% for 1 year?
Formulas
A=P(1 + in)A=P(1 + i)ⁿ
Simple interest vs compound interest
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Simple interest on R3 000 at 12% for 1 year?
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: I = 3000×0.12×1 = 360. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R3 · 000 at · 12% · 1 year. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
I=3000×0.12×1=360.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 07
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 07
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R3 · 000 at · 12% · 1 year. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
3. 03 / 07
  Step C — Name the method in words
  I=3000×0.12×1=360.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
4. 04 / 07
  Working
  I=3000×0.12×1=360.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
5. 05 / 07
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
6. 06 / 07
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R360
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
7. 07 / 07
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R360
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R360
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
1.2 · 2 Marks
1 m³=
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: 1 m³ =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 1 m³. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: 1 m³ =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: 1 m³ =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Cubic metres to litres: × 1 000. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get 1 m³ =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: Cubic metres to litres: × 1 000. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 1 m³. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Cubic metres to litres: × 1 000.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 1 m³. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: 1 m³ =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: 1 m³ =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: Cubic metres to litres: × 1 000. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get 1 m³ =.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 1 m³. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  Cubic metres to litres: × 1 000.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  Cubic metres to litres: × 1 000.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  1 000 ℓ
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
1 000 ℓ
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 1 000 ℓ
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
1.3 · 2 Marks
IQR=
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: IQR =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: IQR =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: IQR =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Not the range. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get IQR =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: Not the range. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Not the range.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: IQR =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: IQR =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: Not the range. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get IQR =.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  Not the range.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  Not the range.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  Q₃ − Q₁
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
Q₃ − Q₁
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: Q₃ − Q₁
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
2.1 · 3 Marks · Simple and compound interest
R4 000 at 10% simple for 3 years. Amount?
Formulas
A=P(1 + in)A=P(1 + i)ⁿ
Simple interest vs compound interest
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: R4 000 at 10% simple for 3 years. Amount?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R4 · 000 at · 10% · 3 years. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Amount. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Amount. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: A = 4000(1+0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Amount.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: A = 4000(1+0.1×3) = 5200. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R4 · 000 at · 10% · 3 years. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
A=4000(1+0.1×3)=5200.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R4 · 000 at · 10% · 3 years. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Amount. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Amount. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: A = 4000(1+0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Amount.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R4 · 000 at · 10% · 3 years. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  A=4000(1+0.1×3)=5200.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  A=4000(1+0.1×3)=5200.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R5 200
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R5 200
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R5 200
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
2.2 · 3 Marks
R19 = 1 dollar. R380 is
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: R19 = 1 dollar. R380 is
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R19 · 1 dollar · R380 is. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: R380 is. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: R380 is. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 38019=20. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get R380 is.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: 38019=20. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R19 · 1 dollar · R380 is. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
38019=20.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R19 · 1 dollar · R380 is. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: R380 is. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: R380 is. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 38019=20. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get R380 is.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R19 · 1 dollar · R380 is. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  38019=20.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  38019=20.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  20 dollars
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
20 dollars
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 20 dollars
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
2.3 · 3 Marks · Inflation and exchange rates
A loaf R16. Inflation 10%. Next year?
Formulas
new price=old price×(1 + inflation rate)
One-year inflation
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A loaf R16. Inflation 10%. Next year?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R16 · 10%. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Next year. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Next year. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 16 × 1. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Next year.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: 16 × 1.10 = 17.60. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R16 · 10%. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
16×1.10=17.60.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R16 · 10%. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Next year. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Next year. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 16 × 1. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Next year.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R16 · 10%. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  16×1.10=17.60.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  16×1.10=17.60.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R17.60
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R17.60
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R17.60
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
3.1 · 3 Marks · Cost, income and break-even
C=50+10n, Income=15n. Break-even n?
Formulas
break-even: income=cost
Break-even point
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: C = 50 + 10n, Income = 15n. Break-even n?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 50 · 10n · 15n. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Break-even n. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Break-even n. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 15n = 50+10n. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Break-even n.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: 15n = 50+10n → 5n = 50 → n = 10. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 50 · 10n · 15n. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
15n=50+10n→5n=50→n=10.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 50 · 10n · 15n. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Break-even n. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Break-even n. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 15n = 50+10n. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Break-even n.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 50 · 10n · 15n. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  15n=50+10n→5n=50→n=10.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  15n=50+10n→5n=50→n=10.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  10
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
10
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 10
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
3.2 · 3 Marks
Wall 5 m by 3 m. Paint 3 m²tin. Tins (round up)?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Wall 5 m by 3 m. Paint 3 m²tin. Tins (round up)?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 5 m · 3 m · 3 m²tin. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Tins (round up). Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Tins (round up). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Area 15. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Tins (round up).
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: Area 15. 153=5. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 5 m · 3 m · 3 m²tin. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Area 15. 153=5.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 5 m · 3 m · 3 m²tin. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Tins (round up). Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Tins (round up). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: Area 15. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Tins (round up).
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 5 m · 3 m · 3 m²tin. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  Area 15. 153=5.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  Area 15. 153=5.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  5
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
5
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 5
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
3.3 · 3 Marks
Plan 30 mm, scale 1:100. Real length?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Plan 30 mm, scale 1:100. Real length?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 30 mm · 1 · 100. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Real length. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Real length. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 30×100 = 3 000 mm = 3 m. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Real length.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: 30×100 = 3 000 mm = 3 m. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 30 mm · 1 · 100. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
30×100=3 000 mm=3 m.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 30 mm · 1 · 100. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Real length. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Real length. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 30×100 = 3 000 mm = 3 m. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Real length.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 30 mm · 1 · 100. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  30×100=3 000 mm=3 m.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  30×100=3 000 mm=3 m.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  3 000 mm
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
3 000 mm
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 3 000 mm
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
4.1 · 4 Marks
Q₁=15, Q₃=35. IQR?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Q₁=15, Q₃=35. IQR?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 15 · 35. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: IQR. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: IQR. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 35 − 15 = 20. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get IQR.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: 35 − 15 = 20. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 15 · 35. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
35−15=20.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 15 · 35. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: IQR. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: IQR. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 35 − 15 = 20. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get IQR.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 15 · 35. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  35−15=20.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  35−15=20.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  20
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
20
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 20
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
4.2 · 4 Marks · Tree diagrams and relative frequency
A fair coin twice. P(two tails)?
Formulas
P(A then B)=P(A)×P(B given A)
Compound events
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A fair coin twice. P(two tails)?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: P(two tails). Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: P(two tails). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: ½ × ½ = ¼. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get P(two tails).
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: ½ × ½ = ¼. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
½×½=¼.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: P(two tails). Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: P(two tails). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: ½ × ½ = ¼. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get P(two tails).
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  ½×½=¼.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  ½×½=¼.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  14
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
14
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 14
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
4.3 · 4 Marks · Simple and compound interest
Compound R1 000 at 10% p.a. for 2 years. A?
Formulas
A=P(1 + in)A=P(1 + i)ⁿ
Simple interest vs compound interest
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Compound R1 000 at 10% p.a. for 2 years. A?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R1 · 000 at · 10% · 2 years. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: A. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: A. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 1000×1. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get A.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
If you have never seen this before: 1000×1.1×1.1 = 1210. We will name a method in words, write the formula with no numbers, then substitute one line at a time.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R1 · 000 at · 10% · 2 years. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
1000×1.1×1.1=1210.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R1 · 000 at · 10% · 2 years. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: A. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: A. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 1000×1. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get A.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R1 · 000 at · 10% · 2 years. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  1000×1.1×1.1=1210.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  1000×1.1×1.1=1210.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R1 210
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R1 210
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R1 210
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
13 · 2 Marks
An invoice in Polokwane shows R1400 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
Notes: An invoice in Polokwane shows R1400 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: An invoice in Polokwane shows R1400 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R1400 excluding · 15%. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: VAT amount. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: VAT amount. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: VAT = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get VAT amount.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
VAT=0.15×1400=210.
2. What do we already know?
An invoice in Polokwane shows R1400 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
3. Which method — and why this one?
VAT=0.15×1400=210.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R1400 excluding · 15%. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: VAT amount. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: VAT amount. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: VAT = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get VAT amount.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  An invoice in Polokwane shows R1400 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  VAT=0.15×1400=210.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  VAT=0.15×1400=210.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R210.00
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R210.00
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R210.00
6. Check it like a marker
VAT=0.15×1400=210.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
R1610.00
14 · 2 Marks · Simple and compound interest
R4000 at 8% per year simple interest for 2 years. Interest earned?
Formulas
A=P(1 + in)A=P(1 + i)ⁿ
Simple interest vs compound interest
Notes: R4000 at 8% per year simple interest for 2 years. Interest earned?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: R4000 at 8% per year simple interest for 2 years. Interest earned?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R4000 at · 8% · 2 years. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Interest earned. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Interest earned. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: I = Pin = 4000 × 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Interest earned.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
I=Pin=4000×0.08×2=640.
2. What do we already know?
R4000 at 8% per year simple interest for 2 years. Interest earned?
3. Which method — and why this one?
I=Pin=4000×0.08×2=640.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R4000 at · 8% · 2 years. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Interest earned. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Interest earned. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: I = Pin = 4000 × 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Interest earned.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  R4000 at 8% per year simple interest for 2 years. Interest earned?
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  I=Pin=4000×0.08×2=640.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  I=Pin=4000×0.08×2=640.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R640.00
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R640.00
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R640.00
6. Check it like a marker
I=Pin=4000×0.08×2=640.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
R4640.00
15 · 2 Marks · Cost, income and break-even
Fixed R80, each costs R5, sell R15. Break-even items?
Formulas
break-even: income=cost
Break-even point
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Fixed R80, each costs R5, sell R15. Break-even items?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R80 · R5 · R15. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Break-even items. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Break-even items. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 8. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Break-even items.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
8
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R80 · R5 · R15. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
8
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R80 · R5 · R15. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Break-even items. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Break-even items. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 8. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Break-even items.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R80 · R5 · R15. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  8
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  Contribution 10. 8010=8.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  8
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
8
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 8
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
16 · 4 Marks
Pula 1 = R1.25. R500 is how many pula?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Pula 1 = R1.25. R500 is how many pula?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 1 · R1.25 · R500 is. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: how many pula. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: how many pula. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 5001. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get how many pula.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
5001.25=400 pula.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 1 · R1.25 · R500 is. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
5001.25=400 pula.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 1 · R1.25 · R500 is. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: how many pula. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: how many pula. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 5001. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get how many pula.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 1 · R1.25 · R500 is. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  5001.25=400 pula.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  5001.25=400 pula.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  400
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
400
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 400
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
17 · 2 Marks · Cost, income and break-even
Fixed R100, variable R8 each, sell at R20. Break-even n?
Formulas
break-even: income=cost
Break-even point
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Fixed R100, variable R8 each, sell at R20. Break-even n?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R100 · R8 each · R20. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Break-even n. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Break-even n. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Profit R12 each. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Break-even n.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Profit R12 each. 10012=8.33, so 9 items.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R100 · R8 each · R20. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Profit R12 each. 10012=8.33, so 9 items.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R100 · R8 each · R20. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Break-even n. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Break-even n. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: Profit R12 each. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Break-even n.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R100 · R8 each · R20. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  Profit R12 each. 10012=8.33, so 9 items.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  Profit R12 each. 10012=8.33, so 9 items.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  9
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
9
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 9
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
18 · 3 Marks · Tree diagrams and relative frequency
P(A)=0.3, P(B)=0.5, independent. P(A and B)?
Formulas
P(A then B)=P(A)×P(B given A)
Compound events
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: P(A)=0.3, P(B)=0.5, independent. P(A and B)?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.3 · 0.5. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: P(A and B). Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: P(A and B). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Independent: multiply. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get P(A and B).
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Independent: multiply. 0.3×0.5=0.15.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 0.3 · 0.5. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Independent: multiply. 0.3×0.5=0.15.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.3 · 0.5. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: P(A and B). Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: P(A and B). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: Independent: multiply. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get P(A and B).
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 0.3 · 0.5. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  Independent: multiply. 0.3×0.5=0.15.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  Independent: multiply. 0.3×0.5=0.15.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  0.15
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
0.15
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 0.15
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
19 · 2 Marks
An invoice in Durban shows R1000 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
Notes: An invoice in Durban shows R1000 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: An invoice in Durban shows R1000 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R1000 excluding · 15%. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: VAT amount. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: VAT amount. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: VAT = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get VAT amount.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
VAT=0.15×1000=150.
2. What do we already know?
An invoice in Durban shows R1000 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
3. Which method — and why this one?
VAT=0.15×1000=150.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R1000 excluding · 15%. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: VAT amount. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: VAT amount. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: VAT = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get VAT amount.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  An invoice in Durban shows R1000 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  VAT=0.15×1000=150.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  VAT=0.15×1000=150.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R150.00
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R150.00
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R150.00
6. Check it like a marker
VAT=0.15×1000=150.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
R1150.00
20 · 2 Marks
Plan length 25 mm, scale 1:200. Real length?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Plan length 25 mm, scale 1:200. Real length?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 25 mm · 1 · 200. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Real length. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Real length. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 25 × 200 = 5 000 mm = 5 m. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Real length.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
25×200=5 000 mm=5 m.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 25 mm · 1 · 200. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
25×200=5 000 mm=5 m.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 25 mm · 1 · 200. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Real length. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Real length. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 25 × 200 = 5 000 mm = 5 m. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Real length.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 25 mm · 1 · 200. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  25×200=5 000 mm=5 m.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  25×200=5 000 mm=5 m.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  5 000 mm
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
5 000 mm
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 5 000 mm
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
21 · 2 Marks · Volume, surface area and packing
A wall 6 m by 3 m. Paint covers 4 m² per tin. Tins (round up)?
Formulas
V_box=L×W×Htins=area to paintcoverage per tin
Packing and covering
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A wall 6 m by 3 m. Paint covers 4 m² per tin. Tins (round up)?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 6 m · 3 m · 4 m². Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Tins (round up). Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Tins (round up). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Area 18 m². Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Tins (round up).
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Area 18 m². 184=4.5→5 tins.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 6 m · 3 m · 4 m². Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Area 18 m². 184=4.5→5 tins.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 6 m · 3 m · 4 m². Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Tins (round up). Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Tins (round up). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: Area 18 m². Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Tins (round up).
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 6 m · 3 m · 4 m². Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  Area 18 m². 184=4.5→5 tins.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  Area 18 m². 184=4.5→5 tins.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  5
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
5
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 5
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
22 · 3 Marks · Cost, income and break-even
C=80+12n, Income=20n. Break-even n?
Formulas
break-even: income=cost
Break-even point
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: C = 80 + 12n, Income = 20n. Break-even n?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 80 · 12n · 20n. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Break-even n. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Break-even n. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 20n = 80+12n. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Break-even n.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
20n=80+12n→8n=80→n=10.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 80 · 12n · 20n. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
20n=80+12n→8n=80→n=10.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 80 · 12n · 20n. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Break-even n. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Break-even n. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 20n = 80+12n. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Break-even n.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 80 · 12n · 20n. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  20n=80+12n→8n=80→n=10.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  20n=80+12n→8n=80→n=10.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  10
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
10
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 10
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
23 · 2 Marks · Inflation and exchange rates
Inflation 4% on R50. New price?
Formulas
new price=old price×(1 + inflation rate)
One-year inflation
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Inflation 4% on R50. New price?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 4% · R50. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: New price. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: New price. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: R52. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get New price.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
R52.00
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 4% · R50. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
R52.00
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 4% · R50. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: New price. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: New price. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: R52. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get New price.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 4% · R50. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  R52.00
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  50×1.04=52.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R52.00
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R52.00
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R52.00
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
24 · 2 Marks
An invoice in Bloemfontein shows R400 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
Notes: An invoice in Bloemfontein shows R400 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: An invoice in Bloemfontein shows R400 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R400 excluding · 15%. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: VAT amount. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: VAT amount. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: VAT = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get VAT amount.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
VAT=0.15×400=60.
2. What do we already know?
An invoice in Bloemfontein shows R400 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
3. Which method — and why this one?
VAT=0.15×400=60.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R400 excluding · 15%. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: VAT amount. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: VAT amount. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: VAT = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get VAT amount.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  An invoice in Bloemfontein shows R400 excluding VAT. VAT is 15%. VAT amount?
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  VAT=0.15×400=60.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  VAT=0.15×400=60.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R60.00
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R60.00
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R60.00
6. Check it like a marker
VAT=0.15×400=60.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
R460.00
25 · 2 Marks · Inflation and exchange rates
A price rises with 5% inflation. Multiply the old price by
Formulas
new price=old price×(1 + inflation rate)
One-year inflation
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A price rises with 5% inflation. Multiply the old price by
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 5%. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Multiply the old price by. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Multiply the old price by. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Increase of 5% is × 1. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Multiply the old price by.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Increase of 5% is × 1.05.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 5%. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Increase of 5% is × 1.05.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 5%. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Multiply the old price by. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Multiply the old price by. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: Increase of 5% is × 1. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Multiply the old price by.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 5%. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  Increase of 5% is × 1.05.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  Increase of 5% is × 1.05.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  1.05
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
1.05
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 1.05
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
26 · 2 Marks
Pula 1 = R1.20. R240 is how many pula?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Pula 1 = R1.20. R240 is how many pula?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 1 · R1.20 · R240 is. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: how many pula. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: how many pula. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 200. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get how many pula.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
200
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 1 · R1.20 · R240 is. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
200
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 1 · R1.20 · R240 is. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: how many pula. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: how many pula. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 200. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get how many pula.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 1 · R1.20 · R240 is. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  200
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  2401.20=200.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  200
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
200
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 200
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
27 · 2 Marks · Simple and compound interest
Simple interest on R1 000 at 8% for 1 year is
Formulas
A=P(1 + in)A=P(1 + i)ⁿ
Simple interest vs compound interest
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Simple interest on R1 000 at 8% for 1 year is
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
I=Pin=1000×0.08×1=80.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R1 · 000 at · 8% · 1 year. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
I=Pin=1000×0.08×1=80.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 07
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 07
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: R1 · 000 at · 8% · 1 year. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
3. 03 / 07
  Step C — Name the method in words
  I=Pin=1000×0.08×1=80.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
4. 04 / 07
  Working
  I=Pin=1000×0.08×1=80.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
5. 05 / 07
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
6. 06 / 07
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R80
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
7. 07 / 07
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R80
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R80
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
28 · 2 Marks · Simple and compound interest
R7000 at 8% per year simple interest for 2 years. Interest earned?
Formulas
A=P(1 + in)A=P(1 + i)ⁿ
Simple interest vs compound interest
Notes: R7000 at 8% per year simple interest for 2 years. Interest earned?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: R7000 at 8% per year simple interest for 2 years. Interest earned?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: R7000 at · 8% · 2 years. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Interest earned. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Interest earned. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: I = Pin = 7000 × 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Interest earned.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
I=Pin=7000×0.08×2=1120.
2. What do we already know?
R7000 at 8% per year simple interest for 2 years. Interest earned?
3. Which method — and why this one?
I=Pin=7000×0.08×2=1120.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: R7000 at · 8% · 2 years. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Interest earned. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Interest earned. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: I = Pin = 7000 × 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Interest earned.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  R7000 at 8% per year simple interest for 2 years. Interest earned?
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  I=Pin=7000×0.08×2=1120.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  I=Pin=7000×0.08×2=1120.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R1120.00
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R1120.00
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R1120.00
6. Check it like a marker
I=Pin=7000×0.08×2=1120.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
R8120.00
29 · 2 Marks
Two towns are 8 km apart. Map scale 1:100 000. Map distance?
Notes: Two towns are 8 km apart. Map scale 1:100 000. Map distance?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Two towns are 8 km apart. Map scale 1:100 000. Map distance?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 8 km · 1 · 100 · 000. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Map distance. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Map distance. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 8 km = 800000 cm on the ground. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Map distance.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
8 km = 800000 cm on the ground. Divide by 100 000: 8 cm on the map.
2. What do we already know?
Two towns are 8 km apart. Map scale 1:100 000. Map distance?
3. Which method — and why this one?
8 km = 800000 cm on the ground. Divide by 100 000: 8 cm on the map.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 8 km · 1 · 100 · 000. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Map distance. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Map distance. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: 8 km = 800000 cm on the ground. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Map distance.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Two towns are 8 km apart. Map scale 1:100 000. Map distance?
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  8 km = 800000 cm on the ground. Divide by 100 000: 8 cm on the map.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  8 km = 800000 cm on the ground. Divide by 100 000: 8 cm on the map.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  8 cm
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
8 cm
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 8 cm
6. Check it like a marker
8 km = 800000 cm on the ground. Divide by 100 000: 8 cm on the map.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
80 cm
30 · 2 Marks
Total including that VAT
Notes: Total including that VAT
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Total including that VAT
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Total including that VAT. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Total including that VAT. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Total = 1200 + 180 = 1380. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Total including that VAT.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Total=1200+180=1380.
2. What do we already know?
Total including that VAT
3. Which method — and why this one?
Total=1200+180=1380.
4. Step-by-step working
1. 01 / 08
  Step A — Read the question twice
  Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
2. 02 / 08
  Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
  Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given. Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Total including that VAT. Circle that word — that is the missing variable. Find: We are required to find: Total including that VAT. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula. Calculate: What we need to calculate: Total = 1200 + 180 = 1380. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Total including that VAT.
  Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
3. 03 / 08
  Step B — Write the given in a column
  Total including that VAT
  Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
4. 04 / 08
  Step C — Name the method in words
  Total=1200+180=1380.
  Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
5. 05 / 08
  Working
  Total=1200+180=1380.
  Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
6. 06 / 08
  Step G — Sense-check the size
  Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
  Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
7. 07 / 08
  Step F — Box the answer with its unit
  R1380.00
  Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
8. 08 / 08
  Step H — What the marker is looking for
  On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
  Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
R1380.00
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: R1380.00
6. Check it like a marker
Total=1200+180=1380.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
R180.00