Pearson International A Level Further Mathematics: D1 Decision Mathematics 1
Pearson International A Level Further Mathematics notes on algorithms, graph algorithms, critical path analysis and linear programming.
D1 is an externally assessed modular unit used within Pearson Edexcel International A Level Further Mathematics. The current Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Pure Mathematics specification is Issue 3. This note follows the official D1 order and keeps qualification cash-in choices separate from the mathematical content: your centre must still confirm that the unit combination is eligible for the award you intend to claim.
This page explains D1 in a Further Mathematics pathway. If your registered award is Pearson IAL Mathematics, use the Mathematics D1 route note, where D1 can be paired with M1 or S1.
Official unit scope
- Algorithms and graph terminology.
- Minimum spanning trees and shortest paths.
- Route inspection and travelling-salesperson bounds.
- Critical path analysis.
- Linear programming and simplex ideas.
- Sorting, packing and matching algorithms.
The specification assumes prerequisite knowledge stated for the unit, so later-unit questions may combine earlier methods without re-teaching them. Treat the list above as an integrated toolkit. A question can begin in one topic and finish in another, such as using algebra to form a model, calculus to optimise it and a graph to interpret the result.
Core reasoning and methods
- Follow an algorithm's tie-breaking and labelling rules visibly so the final answer can be audited.
- Distinguish a minimum spanning tree, which connects all vertices cheaply, from a shortest path between two named vertices.
- In critical path analysis, use forward and backward passes to identify zero-float activities and project duration.
Write mathematical arguments so another reader can reproduce every transition. Define symbols that are introduced, preserve exact values until a decimal is requested, and place restrictions beside the step that creates them. Calculator use can support arithmetic, graph exploration and checking, but it does not replace a proof, derivation or required chain of working.
When a model is used, state the simplifying assumptions and interpret the answer in the original setting. A mathematically valid root may be inadmissible because it lies outside a time interval, represents a negative length, violates a probability range or conflicts with a geometric domain. The final check is therefore both algebraic and contextual.
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