Picture this: you’re sitting in your HSC Maths exam, the clock is ticking, and suddenly every formula looks like another language. Don’t panic, your secret weapon is already in front of you: the HSC Mathematics Reference Sheet.
Many students underestimate how powerful this sheet can be. It’s not just a list of random equations, it’s a roadmap that can guide you through even the trickiest exam questions or when you are experiencing anxiety or a mind blank in an exam. In this blog, we’ll break down how to use it effectively for HSC Mathematics Standard 2, Advanced, and Extension, and share a fully annotated version so you know exactly what every formula means.
What’s Actually on the HSC Maths Reference Sheet?
The HSC reference sheet covers key formulas across all major topics and knowing how to use them properly can save you marks and time.
- Trigonometry: Includes sine, cosine, and tangent rules for sides and angles, as well as right-angle ratios. These are lifesavers for exact value questions — no need to memorise every ratio. (Check out more about trigs here)
- Geometry: Contains formulas for area, volume, and surface area of common shapes.
- Sequences and Series: Arithmetic and geometric formulas are vital for multi-step questions. Always check |r| < 1 for convergence when dealing with infinite geometric sums.
- Calculus: Lists differentiation and integration formulas for common functions, especially helpful when you’re only given f(x) or g(x) and need to apply the correct rule directly. In multiple-choice questions, plugging values into the reference sheet formulas can help confirm your answer.
- Statistics & Probability: Covers mean, standard deviation, and probability laws. These are essential for quick checks in data analysis and probability tree questions, and independent probability questions.
How to Study With the Formula Sheet
You can’t bring annotations into the actual exam, but you should use them while studying. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Annotate as you learn: Write short notes beside each formula explaining what it’s for (e.g. “θ in radians”, “|r|<1 only”, “product rule”).
- Use it consistently: Print or laminate a copy and keep it with you. I recommend using it throughout the year while doing class exercises — this helps you memorise where every formula sits.
- Highlight and group: Colour-code topics (e.g. blue for trig, green for algebra) to make connections clearer.
- Use it during practice papers: Each time you look up a formula, mark it you’ll start to see which ones you rely on most.
- Keep annotations short: One to three words max. The goal is recognition, not re-teaching yourself mid-exam.
🚀 KIS Academics Annotated HSC Maths Reference Sheet for your success!
Exam-Day Formula Sheet Hacks
- Don’t over-rely on it, know the layout beforehand so you don’t waste time.
- Always check units and angles (radians vs degrees).
- Circle constants like C in integrals or Δ (discriminant) in quadratics to avoid missing marks.
- Practice solving without the sheet to test your recall before exams.
Want even more HSC Maths resources to guide you to a 99+ ATAR? Check out these 👇
Manoj Arachige
Manoj Arachige
Manoj Arachige
FAQs
Do all HSC Maths exams have the same reference sheet?
Mostly yes, but content varies slightly between Standard, Advanced, and Extension. Always download the correct version from NESA.
Should I memorise Maths formulas if I have the formula sheet?
Definitely. Knowing them saves time and reduces errors under pressure.
Can I bring my annotated formula sheet into the exam?
No only the official NESA one. But studying with an annotated version makes the clean one feel familiar on exam day.
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Written by KIS Academics Tutor for HSC and High school Biology, Economics, PDHPE and Mathematics, Serly Boujikian. Serly is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Medical Science at the University of Sydney and has helped dozens of students achieve top HSC results. See her profile here.
