The Complete IGCSE Biology Study Guide

If you’re preparing for your IGCSE Biology exam, this guide is here to help. Whether studying with Cambridge, Edexcel, or another board, this article walks you through the syllabus, revision tips, recommended resources, and exam preparation strategies. Everything you need to stay on track is right here.

Introduction

IGCSE Biology is a key subject for students pursuing science-focused paths in further education. It covers fundamental biological concepts and real-world applications, as well as building knowledge and essential scientific skills.

This IGCSE Biology study guide is designed for students working towards the Cambridge or Edexcel International GCSE Biology exams. It benefits those who want a clear, manageable approach to the subject. We’ll break down the exam structure, summarise the IGCSE Biology syllabus, give practical revision advice, and highlight trusted resources.

What to Expect from IGCSE Biology

IGCSE Biology tests both your scientific knowledge and how well you apply it. You’ll work with theoretical material, analyse practical data, and answer questions clearly and accurately.

Skills Assessed

Throughout the course and the final exams, you’ll be assessed on a combination of:

• Knowledge and understanding of biological facts and concepts
• Application of knowledge to unfamiliar situations or data
• Analysis and interpretation of information, often using diagrams or tables
• Practical skills, such as experimental design and data evaluation

Each skill plays a part in your overall performance, so it’s essential to revise with all of them in mind.

Question Formats

IGCSE Biology questions come in a few common types:

• Multiple choice questions (MCQs)
• Short-answer and structured questions
• Extended response questions
• Data and graph-based questions
• Practical-based scenarios

Each format tests a slightly different skill, so practising with a range of question types is essential.

Exam Structure Explained

Both Edexcel and Cambridge boards assess similar content but use slightly different formats.

Cambridge IGCSE Biology (0610):

• Paper 1 or 2 (Multiple choice): Core or Extended
• Paper 3 or 4 (Structured theory questions): Core or Extended
• Paper 5 (Practical Test) or Paper 6 (Alternative to Practical): Assesses practical understanding

Edexcel IGCSE Biology (4BI1):

• Paper 1: 2 hours, tests core content
• Paper 2: 1 hour 15 mins, tests all content including bold statements.

Both include multiple choice, short answers, structured responses, and questions based on practical scenarios.

Overall, IGCSE Biology challenges you to understand key scientific concepts, apply them in various contexts, and demonstrate your knowledge through multiple question types and practical skills.

IGCSE Biology Syllabus Breakdown

The IGCSE Biology syllabus includes a wide range of topics. It’s important to understand each section and know the depth of knowledge required.

Main Topic Areas

Here’s a breakdown of the main IGCSE Biology topics you’ll study:

1. Characteristics of Living Organisms
   Learn what defines living things, including functions like respiration, sensitivity, and reproduction.
   
2. Cell Biology and Transport
   Understand cell structures, microscopy, diffusion, osmosis, and active transport.
   
3. Nutrition and Digestion
   Study plant nutrition (photosynthesis) and human digestion, enzymes, and nutrients.
   
4. Respiration and Gas Exchange
   Learn aerobic and anaerobic respiration, and how gas exchange happens in humans and plants.
   
5. Coordination and Response
   Explore the nervous system, hormones, sense organs, and homeostasis.
   
6. Reproduction
   Cover sexual and asexual reproduction in plants and humans, including reproductive organs and development.
   
7. Ecology and Environment
   Examine food chains, nutrient cycles, population changes, and human impact on ecosystems.
   
8. Inheritance and Genetics
   Learn about chromosomes, DNA, genes, inheritance patterns, variation, and natural selection.
   
9. Biotechnology and Selective Breeding
   Understand genetic engineering, cloning, fermentation, and modern applications in biology.

Each topic builds on core knowledge. A strong foundation makes it easier to understand higher-level concepts.

Practical Work and Assessment Objectives

Although some students take an alternative to practical paper, practical understanding is always assessed. You should be able to:

• Describe and evaluate experiments
• Understand experimental design (variables, controls, and safety)
• Record and analyse data from tables, graphs, and observations
• Draw conclusions and suggest improvements

Hands-on practicals or virtual labs are a great way to strengthen these skills. A clear understanding of the IGCSE Biology syllabus lays the foundation for effective revision and exam success.

How to Study Effectively for IGCSE Biology

Success in IGCSE Biology doesn’t come from last-minute cramming. A consistent and thoughtful approach makes a big difference.

Maintain Revision Throughout the Course

It’s easier to remember information when you review it regularly. Start your revision early and make it part of your weekly routine. Go over your notes after each lesson, summarise each topic before moving on, and create short quizzes to test yourself. 

Create a Structured Study Plan

Break the syllabus into weekly goals based on the months left until your exam. Prioritise weaker areas and allow time for review and practice questions.

Here’s how you can structure it:

• Week 1–3: Cell Biology and Transport
• Week 4–5: Nutrition and Digestion
• Week 6–7: Respiration, Gas Exchange
• Week 8–9: Coordination, Response
• Continue with Genetics, Ecology, and Practical work

Keep the plan flexible and realistic. Aim for 2–3 focused sessions per week.

Use Active Recall and Spaced Repetition

Active recall is one of the best ways to lock information into your memory. Instead of re-reading notes, try recalling facts without looking.

Here’s how to reinforce your memory and understanding:

• Use flashcards – Write a question or keyword on one side and the answer or explanation on the other.
• Practice active recall – Cover your notes and try to write down or explain everything you remember about a topic.
• Test yourself frequently – Use past papers, topic quizzes, or timed practice questions to simulate exam conditions and track your progress over time.

Spaced repetition means reviewing topics at increasing intervals: after 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, and so on. Apps like Anki or Quizlet make this easy.

Practise with Past Papers

Past papers help you apply what you’ve learned in exam-like conditions. They show you common question styles and where marks are won or lost.

Here are the steps to get the most out of them:

1. Answer without notes
2. Use a timer
3. Check your work with the official mark scheme
4. Review your mistakes and improve

This is one of the most effective ways to boost your exam technique. With the right study habits, consistent practice, and a clear plan, you can build confidence and perform at your best in IGCSE Biology.

Recommended Resources for IGCSE Biology

Using high-quality study materials makes a big difference in your revision.

Best Textbooks and Revision Guides

These are trusted and widely recommended by teachers and tutors:

• Cambridge IGCSE Biology (by Jones and Jones)
• Edexcel International GCSE Biology Student Book
• CGP IGCSE Biology Revision Guide
• Oxford University Press Revision Workbook

Use these as your main reference since they align closely with exam specifications.

Online Platforms and Apps

Here are some tools to make learning more interactive:

• Khan Academy: Great for topic explanations
• Seneca Learning: Gamified revision for IGCSE topics
• Quizlet: Flashcards and practice quizzes
• Save My Exams and Physics & Maths Tutor: Exam-style questions and mark schemes
• YouTube Channels: Try “Science with Hazel” or “Cognito” for short videos

Choose a few that match your learning style. Avoid jumping between too many resources.

Private Tutoring and Extra Support

Working with a tutor can make a big difference if you find the subject challenging or aim for top marks. An experienced IGCSE Biology tutor can break down complex topics, provide structured lessons with targeted homework, and review past paper answers to help you understand what examiners are looking for. 

TutorsPlus offers personalised IGCSE Biology lessons designed to match your pace, build confidence, and help you reach your full potential. Each session is tailored to your strengths and areas for improvement, giving you the support you need to study more effectively.

“TutorsPlus offers one of the best services, and we had a great experience with Amaury, he is just outstanding!”

With the right support and materials, your IGCSE Biology revision can be more effective, helping you gain confidence and achieve your best in the exam.

Conclusion: Master IGCSE Biology with Confidence

The IGCSE Biology syllabus is broad but manageable with the right approach. You’ll build your confidence and exam skills by following a steady revision routine, focusing on key concepts, and using practice papers regularly.

This guide gives you everything you need to get started. Whether working towards a grade 5 or aiming for a 9, consistent effort and the right tools can help you get there.

FAQs About IGCSE Biology

What is the best way to revise for IGCSE Biology?
A combination of active recall, spaced repetition, past paper practice, and visual learning. Don’t just read notes. Test yourself, explain topics aloud, and use mark schemes to check your work.

How many topics are there in the IGCSE Biology syllabus?
There are around 9 major topic areas, including cells, genetics, respiration, ecology, and human biology. Each topic includes several subtopics.

Are practical experiments included in the final IGCSE Biology grade?
Yes. Depending on your board, you’ll either do a lab-based practical exam or a written paper based on practical skills. Understanding experiments is essential for both.

Which exam boards offer IGCSE Biology and how do they differ?
Cambridge and Edexcel are the two main exam boards. Cambridge offers a tiered exam system (Core and Extended), while Edexcel uses a two-paper format covering different depth levels.

How can I improve my answers to structured and data-based questions?
Focus on precision. Learn to spot command words, structure your responses logically, and use correct terminology. Practising with mark schemes will help you understand what examiners want.

What are common mistakes students make in the IGCSE Biology exam?

Common mistakes include writing vague answers like “it helps the body,” misreading command words such as describe versus explain, skipping graph labels or units, spending too much time on low-mark questions, and failing to review past paper feedback.

Use this IGCSE Biology study guide as your roadmap. The earlier you start, the more confident you’ll feel during exam day. Whether you’re finding IGCSE Biology challenging or aiming for top marks, we’re here to help. Contact TutorsPlus at 022 731 8148 or email to take the next step toward reaching your goals.