Complete Gaokao Study Guide — Math, Physics, Chemistry

flowchart TD
    A[Hub] --> B[Key Concepts]
    A --> C[Core Principles]
    A --> D[Practical Applications]
    B --> E[Fundamental definitions]
    C --> F[Design patterns]
    D --> G[Real-world usage]

The Gaokao (高考) is the National College Entrance Examination of China — one of the most important and most gruelling examinations in the world. Every June, approximately 12 million students sit for this exam, and their scores determine which universities they can attend. The Gaokao is not merely a test of knowledge; it is a test of endurance, precision, and strategic thinking under extreme pressure.

This guide exists because preparing for the Gaokao requires more than memorising formulas. It requires understanding the structure of each section, recognising the types of problems that appear year after year, and developing the mental stamina to perform at your best over two gruelling days. The resources below cover every subject in the Gaokao, with topic-by-topic notes, worked examples, and practice problems.

• Gaokao Structure and Scoring
• Mathematics (数学)
• Physics (物理)
• Chemistry (化学)
• English (英语)
• Chinese (语文)
• Study Plans and Timelines
• Exam Strategies
• Cross-Site Resources
• FAQ

Understanding the structure of the Gaokao is the first step to preparing effectively. The exam takes place over two days in most provinces.

The comprehensive section varies by track:

• Liberal Arts (文科): Politics, History, Geography
• Science (理科): Physics, Chemistry, Biology

Some provinces (e.g., Shanghai, Zhejiang, Jiangsu) have adopted new reforms with 3+3 or 3+1+2 models, allowing students to choose which subjects to take. Check your province’s specific format.

The Gaokao is scored out of 750 in most provinces (or 660 in Shanghai). Competition is intense — a difference of a few points can mean the difference between a 985 university and a 211 university, or between a 211 university and a provincial institution.

Mathematics is the most heavily weighted single subject in the Gaokao. It tests algebra, geometry, probability, and problem-solving ability. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blank questions, and free-response problems.

• Sets and Logic — set operations, logical connectives, and quantifiers
• Functions — domain, range, monotonicity, parity, and composition
• Exponential and Logarithmic Functions — properties, equations, and inequalities
• Trigonometric Functions — identities, graphs, and applications
• Sequences and Series — arithmetic and geometric sequences, summation formulas
• Inequalities — AM-GM, Cauchy-Schwarz, and methods for solving inequalities
• Plane Analytic Geometry — lines, circles, ellipses, hyperbolas, and parabolas
• Solid Geometry — volumes, surface areas, and spatial relationships
• Probability and Statistics — classical probability, conditional probability, and statistical measures
• Derivatives and Applications — differentiation rules, optimisation, and curve sketching

The Gaokao mathematics section typically includes:

• 12 multiple-choice questions (each 5 points, total 60)
• 4 fill-in-the-blank questions (each 5 points, total 20)
• 6 free-response questions (total 70)

The free-response questions are the most challenging and carry the most weight. They require showing complete working and logical reasoning.

1. Master the textbook content — the Gaokao is closely aligned with the curriculum
2. Work through at least 10 years of past papers
3. Identify recurring problem types and develop standard solution methods
4. Practice speed — you have approximately 2 minutes per multiple-choice question
5. For free-response questions, practice writing clear, step-by-step solutions

Physics tests your understanding of mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, optics, and modern physics. The exam emphasises conceptual understanding and the ability to apply physical principles to novel problems.

• Kinematics — motion in one and two dimensions, projectile motion, and relative motion
• Newton’s Laws — force analysis, friction, and connected systems
• Work, Energy, and Power — kinetic energy theorem, potential energy, and conservation of energy
• Momentum — impulse, conservation of momentum, and collisions
• Circular Motion and Gravitation — centripetal force, satellite motion, and Kepler’s laws
• Oscillations and Waves — simple harmonic motion, wave properties, and superposition
• Electrostatics — Coulomb’s law, electric fields, and electric potential
• Circuits — Ohm’s law, Kirchhoff’s laws, and AC circuits
• Magnetism — magnetic fields, Lorentz force, and electromagnetic induction
• Modern Physics — photoelectric effect, atomic models, and nuclear physics

1. Identify the physical principles involved
2. Draw a diagram showing all forces, fields, or components
3. Set up equations based on conservation laws or Newton’s laws
4. Solve algebraically before substituting numbers
5. Check units and whether the answer is physically reasonable

Chemistry tests inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and chemical experiments. The exam requires both conceptual understanding and the ability to perform calculations.

• Stoichiometry — mole concept, limiting reagents, and yield calculations
• Chemical Equilibrium — Le Chatelier’s principle, equilibrium constants, and reaction quotients
• Acids and Bases — pH calculations, buffer solutions, and titration
• Thermochemistry — enthalpy, Hess’s law, and bond energies
• Electrochemistry — galvanic cells, electrolysis, and Nernst equation
• Inorganic Chemistry — periodic trends, coordination compounds, and qualitative analysis
• Organic Chemistry — functional groups, reaction mechanisms, and nomenclature
• Chemical Experiments — common laboratory procedures, apparatus, and safety

• Balancing chemical equations (including redox equations)
• Writing ionic equations
• Predicting products of reactions
• Interpreting experimental data
• Drawing organic structures and reaction mechanisms

The English section tests reading comprehension, grammar, cloze (fill-in-the-blank), and writing. It is the only subject tested in a foreign language, and it can be a significant differentiator for students.

• Reading Comprehension — understanding passages of varying difficulty and answering inference, detail, and vocabulary questions
• Cloze (完形填空) — choosing the correct word or phrase to complete a passage based on context
• Grammar and Usage — tenses, voice, subject-verb agreement, pronoun reference, and sentence structure
• Writing (书面表达) — composing a letter, essay, or notice based on a prompt
• Listening Comprehension — in provinces where listening is tested

• Read English articles daily (news, magazines, academic texts)
• Build vocabulary systematically — aim for 3,500+ words
• Practice writing timed essays with clear structure
• Review grammar rules, especially those that differ from Chinese
• Take practice listening tests if your province includes listening

The Chinese section tests literature, language use, classical Chinese (文言文), and writing. It is the longest section of the Gaokao and requires strong reading and writing skills.

• Modern Reading Comprehension (现代文阅读) — understanding and analysing literary and non-fiction texts
• Classical Chinese (文言文阅读) — translating and comprehending classical Chinese passages
• Poetry Appreciation (古代诗歌鉴赏) — analysing classical Chinese poetry for meaning, technique, and emotion
• Language Use (语言文字运用) — idioms, sentence correction, compression, and rhetoric
• Writing (写作) — composing an argumentative or narrative essay (typically 800+ characters)

The essay (作文) is worth 60 points and can make or break your score.

1. Read the prompt carefully — understand what is being asked
2. Develop a clear thesis — state your position early
3. Support with specific examples — abstract claims without evidence lose marks
4. Use varied sentence structures — demonstrate command of language
5. Write a strong conclusion — do not simply repeat your introduction
6. Manage your time — allocate at least 50 minutes for the essay

• Year 10: Build strong foundations in all subjects; develop study habits
• Year 11: Deepen understanding; begin regular past paper practice
• Year 12: Intensive preparation; focus on exam technique and time management

• 6–8 hours of focused study per day during intensive preparation periods
• Alternate between subjects to maintain freshness
• Include regular breaks (25-minute Pomodoro cycles work well)
• Review what you learned each day before sleeping
• Take one full day off per week to prevent burnout

• Multiple-choice: 1–2 minutes per question; skip difficult ones and return later
• Fill-in-the-blank: 2–3 minutes per question
• Free-response: 10–15 minutes per question; show all working
• Essay: 50–60 minutes; spend 10 minutes planning before writing

1. Read the question twice
2. Identify what is being asked
3. Recall relevant formulas or principles
4. If stuck, move on and return later — fresh eyes often see the solution
5. Never leave a free-response question blank — partial credit is awarded

• Sleep 7–8 hours the night before each exam day
• Eat a balanced meal before the exam
• Arrive early to settle your nerves
• Bring all required materials (ID, exam admission ticket, stationery)
• During the exam, if you feel anxious, take three deep breaths and refocus

This Gaokao site works alongside other Wyatt’s Notes sites:

• Mathematics (University) — for students preparing for university-level mathematics after the Gaokao
• Physics (University) — university physics for those continuing to science programmes
• University Admissions — for students applying to universities outside the Gaokao system
• SAT Preparation — for students considering both Gaokao and international admissions
• IB Mathematics — for students in international programmes alongside Gaokao preparation

During the intensive preparation period (typically the final 6 months), 6–8 hours of focused study per day is recommended. Quality matters more than quantity — 4 hours of deep, focused study is more effective than 8 hours of distracted reading. Include breaks to maintain concentration.

Both, but with a strategic emphasis. Your weakest subjects offer the most room for improvement — bringing a low score up is often easier than pushing a high score higher. However, do not neglect your strongest subjects, as they contribute equally to your total score. A balanced approach with 60% time on weak areas and 40% on strong areas works well.

Past papers are the single most important resource for Gaokao preparation. The exam follows predictable patterns, and practising with real questions helps you recognise problem types, manage time, and build confidence. Complete at least 10 years of past papers for each subject.

Both have benefits. Solo study allows for deep focus and personalised pacing. Group study helps with accountability, discussion, and clarifying difficult concepts. A combination works best: solo study for daily practice and group study for reviewing difficult topics or preparing for exams.

Exam anxiety is normal and can even improve performance if managed well. Strategies include: regular exercise, adequate sleep, deep breathing exercises, visualisation of success, and thorough preparation (confidence reduces anxiety). If anxiety is severe, speak with a counsellor or teacher.

Score thresholds vary by province, year, and university. Generally, 985 universities require scores in the top 2–5% of test-takers in your province, while 211 universities typically require the top 10–15%. Check the admission scores for your specific province and target universities from previous years.

Last updated: 24 July 2026

Written by Wyatt. For questions or feedback, visit wyattau.com.