Nokubonga Ndlovu|Published
Matric learners at Pelican Park High School described Mathematics Paper 1 as a demanding test, with some relieved to have completed the first paper while others were already looking ahead to Paper 2.
Thousands of National Senior Certificate (NSC) candidates wrote Mathematics Paper 1, Mathematical Literacy Paper 1 or Technical Mathematics Paper 1 on Friday, October 23, 2026.
The Mathematics Paper is widely regarded as one of the most critical milestones in the National Senior Certificate timetable—a Gateway subject that holds the key to university entry for STEM degrees, medicine, finance, and engineering.
For 17-year-old Ntombizodwa Mdwayi, the examination followed months of preparation, late-night study sessions and practising past examination papers.
“Paper 1 is all about algebra, functions, and calculus—it’s where you have to secure your foundation,” she said.
Mdwayi said her mind had been racing with formulas since Wednesday, but she felt she had given the examination her best effort.
“I think I did my absolute best; the exam was not too bad,” she said.
She said some questions required analytical thinking and precise problem-solving skills, but staying calm under pressure helped her work through the paper.
Learners share mixed reactions to the paper
Another learner, Tadiwa Nhamo, had a different experience, admitting that she found the examination particularly difficult.
Although she felt adequately prepared before entering the examination, she said several complex, multi-step questions and time constraints created pressure during the session.
Nhamo said: “I remain hopeful and determined to refocus my efforts on preparing for the upcoming Paper 2.”
Looking back at her journey through matric, she shared that it was an enjoyable experience and expressed optimistic expectations for what lies ahead.
'I am relieved we are done with Paper 1'
A third learner, Clayton Rossouw, struggled to find the words to describe the paper, characterising it as neither too easy nor too hard.
"I am relieved paper 1 is finished," he said, adding that with the first major hurdle past, the stress preceding the exam had finally started to clear.
“I am hoping for the best in paper 2,” he said, expressing a sentiment shared by many candidates who are now shifting their focus toward the next critical component of the examination.
He noted that he is hoping for a good outcome in paper 2, expressing a view held by many candidates who are now pivoting their attention to the upcoming exam component.
The next exam, Mathematics Paper 2, is scheduled for Monday, October 26.
With Paper 1 completed, learners will now focus on preparing for the next examination.