Why it’s hard: Imaginary numbers feel… imaginary. It’s hard to visualize or intuit them.

How to overcome it:

• Accept that i = √-1 is a definition, not something to “understand” initially
• Use the Argand diagram to visualize complex numbers
• Practice extensively until operations become automatic
• Understand real-world applications (electrical engineering, quantum mechanics)
• Work with a tutor who can explain the logic clearly

Why it’s hard: Matrix operations follow unfamiliar rules (matrix multiplication isn’t commutative!).

How to overcome it:

• Learn the rules thoroughly before trying to apply them
• Practice matrix operations until they’re automatic
• Understand what matrices represent (transformations, systems of equations)
• Use software to check your work initially
• Create summary sheets of operations

Why it’s hard: You can’t just compute an answer – you need to construct a logical argument.

How to overcome it:

• Study worked proof examples carefully
• Learn standard proof techniques (contradiction, induction, etc.)
• Practice explaining your reasoning clearly
• Read your proofs aloud to check they make logical sense
• Get feedback on proof structure from teachers or tutors

Why it’s hard: Two maths A Levels plus other subjects is a lot.

How to overcome it:

• Create a structured study schedule
• Don’t fall behind – it’s hard to catch up
• Use free periods productively
• Be realistic about other commitments
• Consider taking Further Maths as a fourth A Level to reduce pressure

Why it’s hard: Some concepts have no obvious “real-world” application.

How to overcome it:

• Accept that mathematics can be interesting for its own sake
• Research applications when you need motivation
• Focus on the intellectual challenge rather than immediate practicality
• Connect concepts to each other rather than to real-world scenarios
• Appreciate the beauty of mathematical patterns

Further Maths is very challenging, but it’s not “too hard” if you have the right foundation and motivation.

You’ll need: Grade 8-9 in GCSE Maths, genuine enjoyment of mathematics, strong A Level Maths performance (As in Year 12), 6-8 hours per week for Further Maths homework, and mathematical aptitude beyond just hard work.

If you meet these criteria, Further Maths is difficult but achievable. If not, it might genuinely be too hard and you’d be better focusing on three strong A Levels.

Further Maths is generally considered significantly harder than Physics.

Physics has more concrete concepts you can visualize, experimental work that breaks up theory, and clear applications to the real world. Further Maths has abstract concepts that exist purely in mathematical space, proof-based questions requiring logical argumentation, and volume of content (effectively two A Levels).

However, 2024 grade statistics show Further Maths students achieve higher grades – but this reflects the more able cohort taking Further Maths, not that it’s easier.

28.7% of Further Maths students achieved an A* in 2024.

This is much higher than regular A Level Maths (16.9%) and all subjects average (9.3%). This doesn’t mean Further Maths is easier – it reflects that only the strongest mathematicians take it.

For Maths, Computer Science, or Engineering at Cambridge: Yes, Further Maths is typically required.

For Physics at Cambridge: Highly recommended, close to required.

For Maths at Oxford: Highly recommended but not always essential if your school doesn’t offer it.

For Physics/Engineering at Oxford: Recommended but not essential if performance in Maths is very strong.

For other subjects at Oxbridge: Not required, though taking it demonstrates intellectual ambition.

Always check specific course requirements as they can vary year to year.

Probably not. If you’re getting Bs in A Level Maths, Further Maths will be extremely challenging and you’re unlikely to achieve a high grade.

Better to focus on getting that B up to an A or A* in regular Maths, take a third A Level you can excel in, and achieve three strong A Levels.

Universities prefer three A*/A grades to three A grades plus a C in Further Maths.

Exception: If you’re getting Bs in Year 12 but your teacher believes you’ll achieve an A in Year 13, you might consider Further Maths.

If planning Engineering/Physics: Choose Mechanics (often essential) + Statistics or Further Pure

If planning Economics/Data Science: Choose Statistics + another option

If planning Computer Science: Choose Discrete Mathematics + Statistics

If planning Pure Mathematics: Choose Further Pure + either Mechanics or Statistics

If unsure: Mechanics + Statistics is the most versatile combination

Ask your teacher about university requirements for your target courses.

Most schools allow you to drop Further Maths during Year 12 if you’re struggling significantly.

Dropping after Year 12 AS: Some students complete AS Further Maths then drop it. You still get an AS qualification and can show you attempted a challenging subject.

Dropping mid-Year 12: Possible at most schools with no qualification awarded, but allows you to focus on three A Levels.

Dropping in Year 13: More problematic as you’ve invested significant time, but may still be possible if you’re really struggling.

If you’re finding it extremely difficult in the first term, talk to your teacher about whether to continue.

A* in three A Levels is generally better for university admissions.

Universities would typically prefer Maths A*, Physics A*, Chemistry A* over Maths A*, Physics A, Chemistry A, Further Maths B.

Exception: If your target course specifically requires or strongly recommends Further Maths, then even a B is valuable.

Focus on quality over quantity. Further Maths should only be taken if you can achieve at least an A, ideally an A*.