Mathematics Material for WAEC and JAMB Examination

Mathematics is the foundation of science, technology, and daily problem-solving.
Both JAMB and WAEC place high emphasis on students’ ability to solve numerical problems, apply formulas,
and demonstrate logical reasoning. Many students find Mathematics challenging, but with practice,
confidence, and understanding of key concepts, it becomes one of the easiest subjects to pass.

Chapter 1: Number and Numeration

– Whole numbers, integers, fractions, decimals, percentages.
– Standard form and approximation.
– Laws of indices and logarithms.

Example: Simplify (2³ × 2²) ÷ 2⁴ = 2¹ = 2.

Chapter 2: Algebra

– Algebraic expressions and simplification.
– Expansion and factorization.
– Linear equations in one and two variables.
– Quadratic equations (factorization, completing the square, quadratic formula).
– Simultaneous equations.

Example: Solve 2x² – 5x + 2 = 0.
Solution: (2x – 1)(x – 2) = 0 → x = ½ or 2.

Chapter 3: Sets and Logic

– Representation of sets using Venn diagrams.
– Union, intersection, complement.
– Basic logic: truth tables, implications, negation.

Example: If A = {1,2,3}, B = {2,3,4}, find A ∪ B and A ∩ B.
Answer: A ∪ B = {1,2,3,4}, A ∩ B = {2,3}.

Chapter 4: Geometry and Mensuration

– Lines, angles, polygons.
– Properties of triangles and quadrilaterals.
– Circle theorems.
– Perimeter, area, volume of shapes.

Example: Find the area of a triangle with base 10 cm and height 8 cm.
Area = ½ × base × height = 40 cm².

Chapter 5: Trigonometry

– Trigonometric ratios (sine, cosine, tangent).
– Pythagoras’ theorem.
– Trigonometric identities.
– Sine rule, cosine rule, applications.

Example: In a right triangle, if sin θ = 3/5, find cos θ.
cos θ = √(1 – 9/25) = 4/5.

Chapter 6: Functions and Graphs

– Functions, domain, and range.
– Linear and quadratic graphs.
– Gradient of straight line.
– Distance and midpoint of two points.

Example: Gradient of line joining (2,3) and (6,11) = (11 – 3)/(6 – 2) = 2.

Chapter 7: Statistics and Probability

– Data collection and presentation: tables, bar charts, pie charts, histograms.
– Mean, median, mode, range.
– Probability: likelihood of events.

Example: A die is tossed. Probability of even number = 3/6 = ½.

Chapter 8: Commercial Mathematics

– Simple and compound interest.
– Profit, loss, and discount.
– Ratio, proportion, and rates.
– Currency conversion.

Example: Find CI on ₦20,000 at 10% for 2 years.
A = 20,000(1.1)² = ₦24,200. CI = ₦4,200.

Chapter 9: Variation

– Direct, inverse, joint, and partial variation.
– Applications in speed, density, and work problems.

Chapter 10: Calculus

– Differentiation: simple polynomials, maxima, minima.
– Integration: finding area under curve.
– Applications: motion (velocity, acceleration).

Example: Differentiate y = 3x² + 2x → dy/dx = 6x + 2.

Chapter 11: Vectors and Transformation Geometry

– Representation of vectors, addition, subtraction.
– Scalar and vector products.
– Transformation matrices, reflection, rotation, enlargement.

Chapter 12: Practical Exam Tips

  1. Revise formulas and memorize them.
    2. Show all steps in calculations; method marks are awarded.
    3. Practice WAEC/JAMB past questions.
    4. Draw neat diagrams in geometry and trigonometry.
    5. Avoid wasting time on difficult questions—return to them later.

Conclusion

Mathematics is about understanding, not cramming.
With consistent practice, clear reasoning, and familiarity with formulas,
students can perform excellently in WAEC and JAMB.

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