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JAMB Mathematics Past Questions & 2025 Study Guide

A topic-by-topic JAMB Mathematics guide — number bases, algebra, mensuration, statistics, probability and calculus — with past questions and AI mocks you can build for any weak topic.

Topics that show up every year

1. Number & Numeration

  • Number bases (binary, octal, base conversion).
  • Indices, logarithms, surds — at least 4 questions per paper.
  • Sets, Venn diagrams, modular arithmetic.

2. Algebra

  • Quadratic equations: factorisation, completing the square, formula.
  • Simultaneous equations (linear & one-quadratic).
  • Polynomials, remainder & factor theorem, inequalities.

3. Geometry & Trigonometry

  • Angles, circle theorems, polygons.
  • Mensuration — areas of plane figures, volume & surface area of solids.
  • Trigonometric ratios, identities, sine & cosine rules, bearing problems.

4. Statistics & Probability

  • Mean, median, mode for grouped & ungrouped data.
  • Standard deviation, variance, range.
  • Probability of single & combined events; permutations and combinations.

5. Calculus

  • Differentiation from first principles, product/quotient/chain rule.
  • Application: maxima, minima, rates of change.
  • Integration of polynomials and definite integrals (area under a curve).

Study tips that actually move your score

  • Solve 10 past-question maths problems daily — speed beats new theory.
  • Memorise key formulas (areas, volumes, trig identities) on a single sheet.
  • Practise without a calculator from day one — JAMB doesn't allow one.
  • When stuck, eliminate two obviously wrong options — your chance jumps to 50%.

Sample JAMB Mathematics question

If 2ˣ = 64, find the value of x.

  1. 4
  2. 5
  3. 6
  4. 7

Answer: C. 64 = 2⁶, so x = 6.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are in JAMB Mathematics?
40 multiple-choice questions in approximately 60 minutes — so about 1 minute 30 seconds per question.
Is JAMB Mathematics hard?
It is calculation-heavy but predictable. Roughly 70% of questions come from the same core topics every year — algebra, indices, mensuration, statistics and calculus.
Which JAMB Maths topics carry the most marks?
Number bases, surds, indices, quadratic equations, mensuration (areas and volumes), statistics (mean/median/mode), probability, and basic calculus.
Can I use a calculator in JAMB Maths?
No. JAMB does not allow calculators. Practise mental arithmetic and shortcut techniques like estimation and rounding.