PSLE Mathematics requires pupils to be comfortable with both accurate calculation and mathematical reasoning. The two written papers have different expectations, especially regarding calculator use and the way pupils present answers. A child in Punggol should therefore prepare for each paper deliberately rather than use one revision method for everything.

This guide explains the distinction between Paper 1 and Paper 2 in the 2026 SEAB format, why non-calculator fluency remains important, how calculators should be used when permitted and how pupils can show their working. Parents should check the exact SEAB document for their child’s examination year because the format may be reviewed.

• The 2026 PSLE Mathematics examination consists of two written papers scheduled on the same day with a break between them.
• Paper 1 lasts 1 hour 10 minutes and does not allow calculators.
• Paper 2 lasts 1 hour 20 minutes and allows calculators.
• Paper 1 includes multiple-choice and short-answer questions; Paper 2 includes short-answer and structured/long-answer questions.
• The two papers assess related mathematical knowledge, but they place different demands on calculation and presentation.
• Paper 2 still requires pupils to understand the method; a calculator cannot choose an appropriate strategy.
• Use only a calculator approved by SEAB and permitted for the relevant paper.

Why the two papers require different preparation

Paper 1 assesses pupils’ ability to work without a calculator. They need secure number sense, efficient written methods and the ability to check whether an answer is reasonable. Paper 2 allows a calculator, but pupils must still understand the question, select a method and present a clear solution where required.

It is a mistake to assume that Paper 1 is only about speed or that Paper 2 is easy because a calculator is allowed. Both require understanding. The tool changes the way some calculations are completed, but it does not replace mathematical thinking.

Paper 1: calculation without a calculator

In the 2026 format, Paper 1 lasts 1 hour 10 minutes and contains a multiple-choice booklet and a short-answer booklet. Calculators are not allowed. Pupils should be confident with the number facts and written procedures they have learned in the primary syllabus.

Practise place value, the four operations, fractions, decimals and other relevant syllabus content in ways that develop accuracy. Estimation is useful because it gives a sense of the expected size of an answer. If the result is far outside a reasonable range, the pupil can revisit the calculation before moving on.

Non-calculator work should not become a competition to calculate mentally at all costs. Pupils can use appropriate written methods and working space. The important point is to work accurately and efficiently under the examination conditions.

Paper 2: calculator use with mathematical reasoning

Paper 2 lasts 1 hour 20 minutes in the 2026 format and allows calculator use. The paper includes short-answer and structured or long-answer questions. Pupils should show meaningful working in the spaces provided, particularly where the question requires a method or a multi-step solution.

Teach the child to decide what calculation is needed before reaching for the calculator. Write down the relationship or method, enter the values carefully and check the display. A calculator can produce a precise result from incorrect entries. It cannot tell the pupil whether the selected operation represents the situation correctly.

Approved calculators and responsible use

SEAB publishes an approved calculator list. Parents should consult the current official list and check the rules for the relevant examination. A calculator used in school or bought from a familiar retailer is not automatically approved for PSLE.

Pupils should practise with the same approved calculator they intend to use, if applicable. They should know how to enter numbers, use brackets where needed and clear previous entries. Do not introduce an unfamiliar device just before the examination. Check that the calculator is functioning and follow the school’s instructions for examination day.

Show working clearly

Working makes the method visible. In structured questions, a pupil should arrange steps in a logical order and label the answer with the correct unit where required. If the pupil makes a later calculation error but has shown a sound method, the working may help demonstrate understanding under the marking scheme. The exact award of marks depends on the question and SEAB’s marking requirements.

Do not teach pupils to write unnecessary lines merely to make the answer look longer. Each step should show a calculation or relationship that contributes to the solution. Clear working is easier to check and helps the pupil find an error.

How to practise Paper 1 and Paper 2 in a balanced way

Use separate practice blocks for non-calculator fluency and calculator-permitted structured questions. For Paper 1, practise accurate calculation and the ability to recognise a sensible answer. For Paper 2, practise interpreting the problem, choosing a method, presenting steps and using the calculator carefully.

Include mixed-topic practice because the child needs to recognise which mathematical idea applies. After a practice paper, group errors by concept, strategy, calculation, calculator entry, units and presentation. Revisit the underlying idea before attempting another full paper.

Managing time and difficult questions

Teach pupils to read the marks and instructions, begin with questions they can approach confidently and avoid spending an excessive amount of time on one difficult question. If stuck, they can record relevant working and return later if time permits. One challenging item should not prevent them from attempting the rest of the paper.

Checking time should be protected. For Paper 1, pupils can check calculations and multiple-choice shading or answer recording as appropriate. For Paper 2, they can check units, arithmetic and whether the final answer addresses the question. Follow the official instructions for each paper.

Questions Punggol parents often ask

Are calculators allowed in both papers?

No. The 2026 SEAB format states that calculators are not allowed in Paper 1 and are allowed in Paper 2.

Does calculator use mean fewer method marks are needed?

No. Pupils still need to show clear working for structured problems and demonstrate that they understand the method.

Can my child use a phone calculator?

No. Use only the approved calculator specified by SEAB and the examination instructions. A phone is not an approved substitute.

Should pupils practise with a calculator all year?

They should build strong non-calculator skills as well as learn appropriate calculator use for the permitted paper. Practice should reflect the current format.

Official sources and final preparation checklist

• SEAB: PSLE Formats Examined in 2026
• SEAB: PSLE Mathematics examination format (2026)
• SEAB: Approved calculator information
• MOE: Primary Mathematics Syllabus P1–P6

Before the next Mathematics session, decide whether the task is practising non-calculator accuracy or calculator-permitted problem solving. Use the correct conditions, review the reasoning and correct the cause of each repeated error. This helps pupils prepare for both papers without confusing the different rules.