For millions of UK adults, the GCSE maths exam isn’t just a memory – it’s a recurring nightmare. Research by Tutors Valley shows that 5.3 million adults in the UK are still having nightmares about their GCSE maths exams, even years after taking them.
Ahead of International Puzzle Day, Tutors Valley has highlighted one of the most challenging GCSE maths questions ever set, giving readers a chance to test their problem-solving skills and relive a little exam panic.
The question has sparked debate on Reddit, with many users admitting they were completely thrown by it, even if they thought GCSE maths was long behind them. One user commented, “The last 3 questions on Edexcel always left me hopeless.”
What seems simple at first quickly turns into a tricky brain teaser, with confident answers often proving to be wrong. Online discussions highlight how demanding GCSE maths can be and remind adults just how much reasoning is required to succeed.
The pressure is real for students too. A 2025 survey found that 85% of UK students experience exam anxiety, with one in four describing it as nearly unbearable. This makes preparation and support essential, whether it’s revising extra, working with a tutor, or learning techniques to manage stress.
Lindsey Wright, Head of Maths Education at Tutors Valley, offers advice for parents supporting their children through exams:
“There is no doubt that exams in the UK are designed to challenge students, but parents can take practical steps to help their child feel confident and prepared. Understanding how your child learns is crucial. In a classroom of 30, it’s easy for students to fall behind, whereas one-to-one tutoring provides a safe space to ask questions, make mistakes, and focus on problem areas. This support is especially important when research shows that 71% of students do not seek any help at all to manage their stress.”
For more guidance on helping your child through exams, visit Tutors Valley.
