Grade 12

CAPS Maths Lit Grade 12 Past Papers

Mathematical Literacy focuses on real-world number sense: finance, measurement, maps, data and probability. Work through both papers with a calculator where allowed, then mark carefully - method and interpretation marks are easy to lose if you rush.

Past papers / Grade 12

2026 exam dates

National Senior Certificate dates for Mathematical Literacy from the Department of Basic Education timetable. Confirm your own centre, start time and permit with your school.

Paper 1

Fri 23 Oct 2026

09:00 start, 3 hours, 150 marks

Paper 2

Mon 26 Oct 2026

09:00 start, 3 hours, 150 marks

Source: DBE Oct/Nov 2026 NSC timetable

What each paper covers

Topic weightings summarised from the CAPS examination guidelines so you can prioritise revision. Exact questions change each year - use this as a map, not a prediction.

Paper 1 - 150 marks (3 hours)

Paper 1 is typically the more structured paper - finance, measurement, maps/plans and data handling with clearer scaffolding. Show every step, keep units visible, and check whether the question asks for rounding to cents, metres or percentage points.

  • Finance (interest, budgets, tariffs, inflation)45 marks
  • Measurement (perimeter, area, volume, conversions)35 marks
  • Maps, plans and other representations35 marks
  • Data handling35 marks

Paper 2 - 150 marks (3 hours)

Paper 2 asks you to combine ideas in less familiar contexts. Probability, multi-step finance and interpretation questions are common. Read the whole scenario before calculating so you do not answer a different question than the one set.

  • Finance in integrated contexts40 marks
  • Measurement and scale in context35 marks
  • Maps, plans and models30 marks
  • Data handling and probability45 marks

Mathematical Literacy Paper 1

Direct PDF links open the DBE file where available. Otherwise the session page lists every subject pack.

Mathematical Literacy Paper 2

Need help with Grade 12 Maths Lit?

Practise with past papers, then book a CAPS tutor for guided walkthroughs, exam technique, and a plan for the topics you keep losing marks on.

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