5-3-2-answering-8-mark-questions

• Start off with a definition of the key term in the question stem

  • This will secure some Level 1 knowledge marks and can help you focus your response

Step 2

• In the next paragraph, you should start your analysis by making a strong point

  • Support it with some relevant context from the stimulus material

    • Quoting some data, including a calculation, or remarking on a key business feature or trend are good ways to do this

  • Develop a chain of reasoning that develops the point logically. The X→Y→Z approach is a good way to build a coherent chain:

    • E.g. X leads to Y which results in Z or X and Y lead to Z

  • The best chains of analysis combine points effectively. For example:

    • E.g. X₁ and X₂ lead to Y, which results in Z or X leads to Y₁ and/or Y₂, which results in Z or X leads to Y, which results in Z₁ and/or Z₂

Step 3

• In the next paragraph, you need to show balance by providing a counterpoint

  • Make a logical, relevant counterpoint. Make sure that it is relevant to the question

  • A further chain of XYZ reasoning, with context, is also required

    • This is particularly important in 8-mark questions, as a conclusion or recommendation is not required

    • Evaluation marks are, instead, awarded for effective balance

Step 4

• Repeat steps two and three with a further point and counterpoint