Before you start revising for GCSE Maths, it really helps to have the right basic equipment. You don’t need anything expensive or fancy, but having the correct tools is important.

GCSE Maths Essentials

• Scientific calculator (GCSE-approved)
• Geometry set (ruler, protractor, compass)
• Maths notebook (to keep work lined up)
• Graph paper (for coordinates and graphs)
• Isometric paper (for 3D shapes)
• Pencils, eraser, sharpener
• Pen(s) and a ruler for neat working and underlining answers

1) Scientific Calculator

A scientific calculator is essential for GCSE Maths. You’ll use it in lessons, homework, and exams. Phone calculator apps are not allowed in exams, and you should avoid graphing calculators unless you know your exam board allows them.

• Choose a scientific calculator (not basic, not graphing)
• Make sure you’re comfortable using it for:
  • Fractions and decimals
  • Powers and roots
  • Brackets     
  • Standard form
  • Trig (sin, cos, tan) for Higher tier

Recommended calculators (UK GCSE)

• Casio fx-83GTCW (popular GCSE model)
• Casio fx-85GTCW (same model, with solar charging)

2) Geometry Set

You will need geometry tools for constructions, angles, and diagrams. In exams, accuracy matters - messy diagrams can lose method marks even if your maths is correct.

• Ruler — straight lines, scale diagrams, measuring lengths
• Protractor — measuring and drawing angles
• Compass — constructions (perpendicular bisectors, angle bisectors), loci

Recommended option

• Full geometry set (ruler + compass + protractor) (usually cheaper than buying separately)

3) Notebooks and Paper

Having the right paper makes your working clearer and helps prevent avoidable mistakes. Lots of GCSE marks are lost from poor layout (for example, misaligned columns, unclear algebra, or messy graphs)

• Squared paper (graph/squared notebook) - best for most GCSE work
• Graph paper — helpful for plotting graphs accurately
• Isometric paper — useful for drawing 3D shapes and nets<

Recommended options

• Squared maths notebook / Squared maths exercise book
• Graph paper pad
• Isometric paper pad

4) Small Extras (Worth Having) 

• HB pencils (make sure to have a spare)
• Eraser and sharpener (if not already included in maths kit)
• A black pen for final answers - Ballpoint / Ink
• Coloured pens (optional) for corrections and highlighting mistakes - Ballpoint / Ink

Quick Checklist

• Scientific calculator
• Geometry set
• Squared notebook
• Graph paper
• Isometric paper
• Pencils + pen + ruler

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The links on this page are affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, which helps support the time required to make 200+ pages of materials free. I only recommend equipment that is suitable for GCSE Maths and this is the only material page which contain affiliate links.