Leaving Cert Applied Maths: The last exam of the Leaving Cert went "routinely" for 1,422 applied maths students yesterday. The exam has followed a stable format for many years, as examiners work to change the public perception of the subject as too difficult for the average student.

"Applied maths is still seen as elitist, but papers like today's prove that it is very accessible," said ASTI subject convenor Christy Maginn. "The format doesn't deviate from year to year and the questions are broken down into simple steps that take the weaker students well beyond the halfway point in each section."

There were two slightly tricky parts in sections 3 and 6, but nothing that students should not have been able to negotiate, said Mr Maginn, a teacher at St Declan's school in Cabra.

Oliver Murphy, who teaches the subject at Belvedere College, also believes that many more students should be taking applied maths.

"It's a Cinderella subject because many students think it's too hard. In fact it's an excellent subject for students of all abilities. We have to work harder to raise the profile of applied maths."

Mr Maginn agreed. "If more students tried applied maths they would realise that they can and should do well. It's a reliable subject that gives a consistent return for effort." More than 20 per cent of applied maths students get an A1 and more than two thirds of students are male.

The ordinary level paper, taken by 44 students yesterday, was also consistent with previous years.