Mathematics A-Level
Type I error
What Type I error means in Mathematics A-Level, as defined for WJEC.
Definitions of Type I error
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Type I error in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: WJEC
Incorrectly rejecting the null hypothesis H₀ when it is entirely true, a mistake whose probability the significance level α specifies as a maximum.
Occurs when the null hypothesis H₀ is rejected when H₀ is in fact true.
Topics that use Type I error
Related terms
- actual significance level
- binomial hypothesis testing
- contextual interpretation
- critical region
- nominal significance level
- null hypothesis
- p-value
- significance level
Using Type I error in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Mathematics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Mathematics A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge