Mathematics Grade 12 Exam Guidelines and Scope for 2026: To excel in the Mathematics Grade 12 final exams in 2026, learners must master both the logical reasoning of Paper 1 and the spatial and statistical skills of Paper 2. While the official 2026 Department of Basic Education (DBE) examination timetable is typically released later in the year, these Exam Guidelines provide the definitive scope for your revision.
The 2026 assessment remains consistent with the CAPS curriculum, ensuring that your study efforts are focused on high-weighting topics like Calculus, Trigonometry, and Euclidean Geometry.
Download Mathematics Grade 12 Exam Guidelines (PDF)
Access the official guidelines and essential study aids to align your preparation with the 2026 requirements:
- Download Mathematics Grade 12 Exam Guidelines 2025-2026 (English)
- Download Mathematics Grade 12 Exam Guidelines 2025-2026 (Afrikaans)
For more support, including the “Mind the Gap” study guides and past papers, visit the My Courses homepage or explore the Grade 12 Study Resources hub.
Paper 1 – Algebra, Functions, Calculus, and Probability
Duration: 3 Hours | Total Marks: 150
Paper 1 focuses on numerical reasoning, algebraic manipulation, and the study of rates of change. Success here depends on speed and accuracy in symbolic math.
Topics and Mark Allocation:
- Algebra, Equations, and Inequalities (25 Marks): Solving quadratic equations, surds, exponents, and logs.
- Number Patterns (25 Marks): Arithmetic and geometric sequences and series, including sigma notation and sum to infinity.
- Functions and Graphs (35 Marks): Linear, quadratic, hyperbolic, and exponential graphs, including inverse functions.
- Finance, Growth, and Decay (15 Marks): Future and present value annuities, sinking funds, and depreciation.
- Differential Calculus (35 Marks): Limits, differentiation from first principles, rules of differentiation, and optimization problems.
- Probability (15 Marks): Counting principle, Venn diagrams, and independent events.
Paper 2 – Geometry, Trigonometry, and Statistics
Duration: 3 Hours | Total Marks: 150
Paper 2 shifts the focus to spatial reasoning and data analysis. This paper often requires more visualization and “unseen” proof-solving.
Topics and Mark Allocation:
- Statistics and Regression (20 Marks): Ogives, box-and-whisker plots, standard deviation, and least squares regression lines.
- Analytical Geometry (40 Marks): Distance, midpoint, gradient, and the equation of a circle including tangents.
- Trigonometry (50 Marks): Compound and double angle identities, 2D and 3D problems, and trigonometric graphs.
- Euclidean Geometry (40 Marks): Circle theorems and similarity proofs. Note: Up to 12 marks may be allocated to bookwork (proofs of theorems).
Conclusion: Strategy for 2026 Success
The Mathematics Grade 12 Exam Guidelines for 2026 emphasize that practice is the only path to a “Level 7” (80%+). To secure your distinction:
- Master the Proofs: In Paper 2, circle geometry and trigonometry proofs are “predictable” marks. Learn them by heart.
- Use the Formula Sheet: Know exactly where to find every formula so you don’t panic during the 3-hour session.
- Calculator Proficiency: Master your scientific calculator for solving complex quadratic equations and statistical data quickly.
For continuous updates on the 2026 matric calendar and expert tips on tackling “level 4” problem-solving questions, keep visiting My Courses.
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