Whether you're taking IB Math AA or AI, at SL or HL, one thing is guaranteed: you'll face a barrage of formulas—algebraic, trigonometric, statistical, and calculus-based. The difference between a 5 and a 7 can often come down to how quickly and accurately you recall these formulas under pressure.
This guide shares the top tips for memorizing IB Math formulas efficiently, based on expert study techniques, neuroscience-backed memory hacks, and feedback from IB graduates.
Know What’s Given in the Formula Booklet
First, understand what formulas you don’t need to memorize—because they’re provided.
The IB Math formula booklet (provided in exams) includes:
- Most basic algebraic identities
- Differentiation and integration rules
- Geometric and statistical formulas
But don’t be fooled. Just because it’s in the booklet doesn't mean:
- You’ll have time to find it during the exam
- You’ll know how to apply it correctly
✅ Tip: Read through the booklet at least twice and practice locating formulas fast.
Categorize Formulas by Topic
Organizing your study around key topics improves retention. Group formulas into:
- Functions & Graphs
- Algebra & Equations
- Calculus (Differentiation & Integration)
- Statistics & Probability
- Vectors & Geometry
- Trigonometry & Identities
📘 Bonus tip: Create a color-coded binder or digital sheet with sections dedicated to each topic. This builds mental association, improving recall.
Create Your Own Formula Reference Sheet
Research shows that writing information by hand improves memory. So, don’t just copy-paste formulas—build your own sheet from scratch.
How to do it:
- Use colors for categories
- Add small diagrams or context cues
- Keep it visible—stick it near your study desk or bathroom mirror
📄 This sheet becomes your go-to revision anchor during the weeks before your exam.
Use Mnemonics and Memory Tricks
Turn boring formulas into fun phrases or patterns. Examples:
- SOH-CAH-TOA for trigonometric ratios
- All Students Take Calculus – for quadrant signs
- "n choose r" = n!r!(n−r)!\frac{n!}{r!(n-r)!}r!(n−r)!n! → memorize with "Factorial sandwich" idea
You can also create:
- Rhymes (e.g., “High D is Low Slope” for derivative of a line)
- Visual shapes (e.g., area of a triangle = half base × height → a slice of pizza)
These tricks make formulas stick in your brain faster.
Understand, Don’t Just Memorize
Blind memorization fails under stress. True recall comes from deep understanding.
Ask yourself:
- What does the formula mean?
- Can I derive it if I forget it?
- Where is it used in real-world problems?
Example: Don’t just memorize the derivative of sin(x)\sin(x)sin(x) is cos(x)\cos(x)cos(x). Understand how the graph’s slope changes and you’ll never forget it again.
Practice Applying Formulas in Context
Doing textbook exercises isn't enough. You need to use the formula in a realistic exam problem.
Why?
- It strengthens retrieval pathways
- Helps you learn when and how to use each formula
- Reinforces units and conditions tied to each formula
🧠 Try solving 2–3 past exam questions per formula. That’s real learning.
Make Flashcards for Active Recall
Flashcards are a proven memory tool. Here’s how to make them work:
- One formula per card
- One side: Question or topic
- Other side: Formula + use case
Use Anki, Quizlet, or physical cards. Shuffle often to avoid memorizing by order.
💡 Don’t just look—try to recall from memory before flipping the card.
Use Digital Tools and Apps for Repetition
Technology can boost your study efficiency.
Try these tools:
- Anki (spaced repetition app)
- Quizlet (IB math decks available)
- Brainscape or Cram for quick drills
Schedule short daily sessions. 5–10 minutes a day beats 2 hours of cramming the night before.
Quiz Yourself Daily
Turn downtime into micro-revision moments.
Ideas:
- Ask yourself a formula while walking
- Set a phone alarm with a daily “formula challenge”
- Get a friend or sibling to “rapid-fire quiz” you
🎯 Consistent self-testing is the fastest way to lock in math formulas.
Focus on High-Frequency, Non-Booklet Formulas
Some formulas aren’t in the exam booklet—but they show up all the time.
Examples:
- Standard deviation formula for grouped data
- Area of a sector: 12r2θ\frac{1}{2}r^2\theta21r2θ
- Compound interest: A=P(1+r/n)ntA = P(1 + r/n)^{nt}A=P(1+r/n)nt
- Perpendicular line slope: −1m-\frac{1}{m}−m1
✅ Make a “Must-Know” list of non-booklet formulas to review weekly.
FAQs on Memorizing IB Math Formulas
1. Should I memorize everything in the booklet?
No, but you should know what’s inside, and practice using it efficiently.
2. How many formulas should I memorize cold?
Around 25–35 formulas, especially those not provided in the formula sheet.
3. I keep forgetting formulas—what can I do?
Use spaced repetition, active recall, and write formulas from memory every few days.
4. Are formula posters useful?
Yes, but only if you look at them regularly. Don’t let them become wallpaper.
5. Should I practice writing formulas from scratch?
Absolutely. Writing from memory is 10x more effective than just reading.
6. Can I use apps instead of flashcards?
Yes—Anki and Quizlet are powerful when used daily and actively.
Final Thoughts: Build Confidence Through Repetition
The key to remembering IB math formulas isn’t genius—it’s consistency and strategy.
Start small:
- One topic at a time.
- One formula a day.
- One quiz session before bed.
Over time, your confidence will grow, your recall will sharpen, and the exam will feel less like a maze—and more like a routine.
Additional Resources and Support
🎓 Need ready-to-use formula flashcards or printable sheets?
Visit RevisionDojo’s IB Math Toolkit for:
- Downloadable formula reference sheets
- Formula memorization guides
- IB-specific flashcard decks
- Application-based formula quizzes
