WAEC 2025/2026 Result Upgrade: Truth Every Student Must Know

WAEC 2025/2026 Mathematics Likely Questions with Solutions

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WAEC 2025/2026 Mathematics Likely Questions with Solutions

The WAEC 2025/2026 Mathematics exam is one of the most crucial tests for Nigerian students. Whether you’re aiming for the best grades or simply working to pass, understanding the structure of the exam and preparing effectively can make a big difference. This comprehensive guide will provide you with likely questions, solutions, and exam strategies to help you succeed in the Mathematics section of your WAEC exam.

In this article, we’ll cover common topics in the WAEC Mathematics syllabus, offer solutions to frequently asked questions, and provide exam tips to ensure that you’re fully prepared for the upcoming exams.

Table of Contents

  1. Overview of WAEC Mathematics Exam
  2. Key Topics in WAEC Mathematics
  3. Common Likely WAEC Mathematics Questions with Solutions
  4. How to Tackle WAEC Mathematics Exam Questions
  5. Effective Study Tips for WAEC Mathematics
  6. Sample WAEC 2025/2026 Mathematics Questions and Solutions
  7. Summary Table
  8. FAQs
  9. Conclusion

Overview of WAEC Mathematics Exam

The WAEC Mathematics exam tests students on various mathematical topics, from basic arithmetic to more advanced concepts like trigonometry, algebra, calculus, and statistics. It is divided into two main papers:

  • Paper 1: Objective questions (Multiple Choice)
  • Paper 2: Theory questions (Short-answer, word problems, and long-answer questions)

The objective section (Paper 1) generally consists of 50 multiple-choice questions covering a broad range of topics, while Paper 2 involves more in-depth, problem-solving questions that test your ability to apply mathematical concepts to real-life situations.

The total time for the WAEC Mathematics exam is typically 3 hours. To perform well, you need a thorough understanding of the key topics and practice solving different types of problems. Let’s dive deeper into the key topics for 2025/2026.

Key Topics in WAEC Mathematics

2.1 Algebra

Algebra forms a significant portion of the WAEC Mathematics exam. Topics under algebra include:

  • Simplification of expressions (e.g., factorization)
  • Solving equations (linear, quadratic, simultaneous)
  • Indices and logarithms
  • Progressions (Arithmetic and Geometric Progressions)

Likely Algebra Questions:

  1. Solve for x:
    2x+5=112x + 5 = 11

    Solution:
    2x=11−52x = 11 – 5
    2x=62x = 6
    x=62=3x = \frac{6}{2} = 3

  2. Factorize the expression:
    3×2−12x3x^2 – 12x

    Solution:
    3x(x−4)3x(x – 4)

2.2 Geometry

Geometry covers a wide range of topics, including angles, shapes, and area calculations. Key concepts include:

  • Properties of triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles
  • Area and perimeter of shapes
  • Pythagoras’ Theorem
  • Coordinate geometry

Likely Geometry Questions:

  1. Find the area of a rectangle with length 8 cm and breadth 5 cm.

    Solution:
    Area = length × breadth = 8 cm×5 cm=40 cm28 \, \text{cm} \times 5 \, \text{cm} = 40 \, \text{cm}^2

  2. In a right triangle, if one leg is 3 cm and the hypotenuse is 5 cm, find the length of the other leg.

    Solution (Using Pythagoras’ Theorem):
    Hypotenuse² = leg₁² + leg₂²
    52=32+leg225^2 = 3^2 + \text{leg}_2^2
    25=9+leg2225 = 9 + \text{leg}_2^2
    leg22=25−9=16\text{leg}_2^2 = 25 – 9 = 16
    leg2=16=4\text{leg}_2 = \sqrt{16} = 4

2.3 Trigonometry

Trigonometry focuses on the relationship between the sides and angles of right-angled triangles. Key formulas include:

  • Sine, Cosine, and Tangent ratios
  • Trigonometric identities
  • Solving for angles and sides using the Pythagorean theorem

Likely Trigonometry Questions:

  1. Find the value of sin(30°).

    Solution:
    From standard trigonometric tables or calculator,
    sin⁡(30∘)=0.5\sin(30^\circ) = 0.5

  2. Solve for x if tan⁡(x)=1\tan(x) = 1.

    Solution:
    tan⁡(45∘)=1\tan(45^\circ) = 1, so
    x=45∘x = 45^\circ

2.4 Statistics and Probability

Statistics deals with the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data, while Probability focuses on the likelihood of events occurring. Topics include:

  • Mean, median, mode, and range
  • Probability of events
  • Bar charts, histograms, and pie charts

Likely Statistics Questions:

  1. Find the mean of the following data: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20

    Solution:
    Mean = 4+8+12+16+205=605=12\frac{4 + 8 + 12 + 16 + 20}{5} = \frac{60}{5} = 12

  2. What is the probability of drawing an Ace from a standard deck of cards?

    Solution:
    There are 52 cards in a deck, and 4 of them are Aces.
    Probability = 452=113\frac{4}{52} = \frac{1}{13}

2.5 Calculus and Differentiation

Calculus involves the study of change and motion, focusing on derivatives and integrals. However, for WAEC students, basic differentiation is the primary focus. Key topics include:

  • Differentiation rules
  • Derivative of basic functions

Likely Calculus Questions:

  1. Find the derivative of the function f(x)=3×2+5x+7f(x) = 3x^2 + 5x + 7.

    Solution:
    The derivative of f(x)f(x) is given by the power rule:
    f′(x)=6x+5f'(x) = 6x + 5

  2. Find the slope of the curve y=x3−2×2+4xy = x^3 – 2x^2 + 4x at x=1x = 1.

    Solution:
    The derivative of y=x3−2×2+4xy = x^3 – 2x^2 + 4x is:
    y′=3×2−4x+4y’ = 3x^2 – 4x + 4
    At x=1x = 1:
    y′=3(1)2−4(1)+4=3−4+4=3y’ = 3(1)^2 – 4(1) + 4 = 3 – 4 + 4 = 3
    The slope at x=1x = 1 is 3.

Common Likely WAEC Mathematics Questions with Solutions

Below are some frequently asked mathematics questions that have a high probability of appearing in the 2025/2026 WAEC exam, along with solutions.

1. Solve the quadratic equation:

2×2−3x−5=02x^2 – 3x – 5 = 0

Solution:
Using the quadratic formula:
x=−b±b2−4ac2ax = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 – 4ac}}{2a}
For the equation 2×2−3x−5=02x^2 – 3x – 5 = 0, a=2a = 2, b=−3b = -3, and c=−5c = -5.

x=−(−3)±(−3)2−4(2)(−5)2(2)x = \frac{-(-3) \pm \sqrt{(-3)^2 – 4(2)(-5)}}{2(2)}
x=3±9+404x = \frac{3 \pm \sqrt{9 + 40}}{4}

pm \sqrt{49}}{4}]
x=3±74x = \frac{3 \pm 7}{4}
So,
x=3+74=104=2.5x = \frac{3 + 7}{4} = \frac{10}{4} = 2.5 or
x=3−74=−44=−1x = \frac{3 – 7}{4} = \frac{-4}{4} = -1
Hence, x=2.5x = 2.5 or x=−1x = -1.

2. A cylinder has a radius of 3 cm and a height of 5 cm. Find the volume.

Solution:
The volume of a cylinder is given by the formula:
V=πr2hV = \pi r^2 h
where r=3 cmr = 3 \, \text{cm} and h=5 cmh = 5 \, \text{cm}.
V=π(3)2(5)=π×9×5=45π≈141.37 cm3V = \pi (3)^2 (5) = \pi \times 9 \times 5 = 45\pi \approx 141.37 \, \text{cm}^3

How to Tackle WAEC Mathematics Exam Questions

  1. Read the questions carefully: Make sure you understand what the question is asking before you begin solving.
  2. Identify key formulas: Recognize the formulae that apply to each type of question.
  3. Show your working: Always show all steps in your calculations, as you may earn marks for correct methods even if the final answer is wrong.
  4. Manage your time: Allocate sufficient time to each question and don’t spend too long on one problem.
  5. Check your answers: If time permits, double-check your calculations and answers.

Effective Study Tips for WAEC Mathematics

  1. Create a Study Plan: Set aside time for each topic and stick to your schedule.
  2. Practice Past Questions: Review past WAEC Mathematics papers to familiarize yourself with question patterns.
  3. Group Study: Sometimes, discussing problems with friends can help reinforce concepts.
  4. Use Mathematics Apps and Tools: Leverage technology to solve complex problems and check your solutions.

Sample WAEC 2025/2026 Mathematics Questions and Solutions

1. Calculate the roots of the quadratic equation:
4×2+8x−5=04x^2 + 8x – 5 = 0

Solution:
Using the quadratic formula:
x=−b±b2−4ac2ax = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 – 4ac}}{2a}
For 4×2+8x−5=04x^2 + 8x – 5 = 0,
a=4a = 4, b=8b = 8, and c=−5c = -5.
x=−8±82−4(4)(−5)2(4)x = \frac{-8 \pm \sqrt{8^2 – 4(4)(-5)}}{2(4)}
x=−8±64+808x = \frac{-8 \pm \sqrt{64 + 80}}{8}
x=−8±1448x = \frac{-8 \pm \sqrt{144}}{8}
x=−8±128x = \frac{-8 \pm 12}{8}
Hence,
x=−8+128=48=0.5x = \frac{-8 + 12}{8} = \frac{4}{8} = 0.5 or
x=−8−128=−208=−2.5x = \frac{-8 – 12}{8} = \frac{-20}{8} = -2.5
Therefore, the roots are x=0.5x = 0.5 and x=−2.5x = -2.5.

Summary Table

Topic Key Concepts Likely Questions
Algebra Equations, Factorization, Progressions Solving linear/quadratic equations, simplifying expressions
Geometry Pythagoras’ Theorem, Angles, Area of shapes Area of rectangles/circles, right triangle calculations
Trigonometry Sine, Cosine, Tangent, Angles Finding values of trigonometric functions, solving triangles
Statistics & Probability Mean, Median, Probability, Data interpretation Calculating mean, probability of events
Calculus Derivatives, Functions Differentiating functions, slope of curves

FAQs

  1. What is the best way to prepare for WAEC Mathematics?
    • Practice past questions, understand key concepts, and stay consistent with your studies.
  2. How many hours should I study Mathematics daily?
    • Aim for at least 2-3 hours of Mathematics practice every day.
  3. How can I solve word problems effectively?
    • Read the problem carefully, identify the key information, and use relevant formulas to solve it.
  4. Are there any quick tips for solving algebraic equations?
    • Isolate the variable, simplify the equation step by step, and check your solutions.
  5. Should I focus more on theory or practical problems for WAEC Mathematics?
    • Focus on both; understanding theory will help you solve practical problems efficiently.

Conclusion

By following this comprehensive guide and practicing consistently, you will be well-prepared for the WAEC 2025/2026 Mathematics exam. Focus on understanding the core topics, practicing problems, and reviewing past questions. With dedication, time management, and a smart study approach, you can achieve excellent results in the exam. Good luck!

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