Subject: GCSE Maths Definition

What is a subject?

In GCSE maths, a subject is the variable in a formula or equation that is isolated on one side, whilst all other terms and variables are on the other side. It represents the quantity that is being found, or solved for.

An equation or formula can be rearranged to make a different variable the subject, allowing you to solve for specific variables, depending on the problem you are working on.

For example, in the formula for the area of a circle: , is the subject as it is on its own on one side of the formula. This can be used to find the area of a circle, if the radius is known. The formula could be rearranged to make the subject: . This could then be used to find the radius of a circle, if the area is known.

Subjects revision resources to ace your exams

You can find out more about subjects, and how they can be used, by reading our revision notes. To test your knowledge, try our exam questions in the algebra section, for example these questions on rearranging formulas.

For quick-fire GCSE maths revision, use our collection of interactive flashcards for GCSE maths. We also have past papers for your exam practice.

Explore our GCSE maths revision resources