What every code on an A-level & IGCSE maths mark scheme actually means — Edexcel, CIE, AQA, OCR. Free, one page. Bookmark it.
| Code | Means | Awarded when |
|---|---|---|
M1 | Method mark | A correct method is attempted — even with a slip, independent of the final answer |
A1 | Accuracy mark | A correct answer/value — only if the preceding M mark is earned (A depends on M) |
B1 | Independent mark | A correct stand-alone result, judged on its own (e.g. a stated derivative, the +c) |
dM1 / M1 dep | Dependent method | A method mark that needs an earlier mark first |
| Code | Means |
|---|---|
oe | "or equivalent" — accept any mathematically equivalent form |
cao | "correct answer only" — no follow-through, must be exact |
ft / √ | "follow through" — award using the student's earlier (wrong) value |
soi | "seen or implied" — the step needn't be written explicitly |
awrt | "answers which round to" — accept values rounding to the given figure |
isw | "ignore subsequent working" — don't penalise extra work after a correct answer |
cso | "correct solution only" — full correct chain required |
Edexcel — highly structured M/A/B grids; explicit "dep" chains and alternative-method notes.
CIE (Cambridge) — heavy use of oe / soi / cao; credits intent that's clearly used.
AQA — readable schemes, generous follow-through (ft).
OCR — similar M/A/B; watch the awrt rounding tolerances.
Treating A marks as independent. They're almost always conditional on the M mark — if the method's wrong, the answer mark usually can't be given, even if the number is right. Mark method first, accuracy second.
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