This research aims to figure out effect of problem-based learning using rigorous mathematical thinking approach towards mathematical representation capability and students' self efficacy. It employed post-test only control design. The population in this study is all VII grade students in SMP Negeri 1 Kembaran. The sample technique used was cluster random sampling, class VII F as the experimental class using problem-based learning with rigorous mathematical thinking approach and class VII G as the control class following direct learning. The result reveals that mathematical representation capability and students' self efficacy is better for those who used problem-based learning with rigorous mathematical thinking than those who used direct learning. So, it can be interpreted that problem-based learning using rigorous mathematical thinking affects mathematical representation capability and students' self-efficacy.