Physics & Maths Tutor Tips: How to Study Smarter for Dual Subject Success

Why Studying Maths and Physics Together is Powerful (and Demanding)

In Scottish education, it’s common for ambitious students to take both Higher Maths and
Higher Physics—and sometimes even progress to Advanced Highers in both subjects. Why?
Because Maths and Physics go hand-in-hand, both in theory and in real-world applications.
But pairing them is no small task.
At Excel in MathSci, our tutors in Glasgow help students master the dual challenge of Higher
and Advanced Higher Maths and Physics, offering insights from years of experience working
with SQA exams, National 5, and online Highers in Scotland.

What's Covered in the SQA Curriculum for Maths & Physics?

To study effectively, you must first understand what you're up against. Here's a quick breakdown
of the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) structure:

Higher & Advanced Higher Maths

Useful search terms:

Higher & Advanced Higher Physics

Also includes:

Top 7 Study Tips from a Physics and Maths Tutor

1. Master the Formula Sheets Early

The SQA provides official formula sheets for both subjects—students should learn how to use
them, not just what’s on them.
Searches like:

2. Cross-Train Topics Between Subjects

What you learn in maths often applies in physics:

3. Use Past Papers Every Week

Working with higher maths past papers and physics papers helps build familiarity with layout,
structure, and marking schemes.
Common queries include:

4. Track Common Mistakes

Students often:

5. Practice Timed Conditions

With 80–120 marks available per paper, learning to manage your time is critical. The difference
between an A and a B is often just a rushed paper.

6. Break Up Study with Different Styles

Try mixing:

7. Get the Right Support – Don’t Wait

If you’re constantly searching for:

Why Dual-Subject Tutoring Works at Excel in MathSci

We don’t just assign any tutor. We provide:

Specialists in both subjects
Tailored learning plans
UCAS-aware academic coaching
Support for students on home education in Scotland
Perfect for:
Highers, advanced higher, as level vs a level, gcse in scotland, ruae

UCAS Points: How Your Subjects Add Up

Want to know:

Qualification	Grade A	Grade B	Grade C
Higher	33	27	21
Advanced Higher	56	48	40
National 5 (no UCAS)	–	–	–

We advise on subject combinations and support your UCAS application strategy.

More Resources for Dual-Subject Students

Our site includes:

nat 5 maths formula sheet
Higher human biology course specification
English sqa national 5
Saturday school booking info
Young STEM leader materials
For students preparing for:
National 5, highers, scottish highers, a level equivalent in Scotland

Real Student Feedback

I was falling behind in both Higher Maths and Physics. After two months of tutoring, I went from failing to solid B’s—and eventually A’s.

Zoya S5 student, Glasgow

The tutors really care. They know what examiners want and how to explain the hardest stuff in simple ways.

Jamie Advanced Higher student

Final Advice – Study Smarter, Not Just Harder

Combining maths and physics can feel overwhelming—but with expert support and a strategic
plan, it becomes manageable—and even enjoyable.