Here are 4 quick top tips on how to strategically answer these types of questions in a Business Studies exam:
1. Identify what the question is asking
Read through the question, underline any business studies terms you think you can identify. It helps you focus on what might be relevant. Gain clarity on what it is exactly the question is asking and then begin to strategically answer.
Pay attention to common expressions like: To what extent, evaluate, analyse. Double underline these because they will help your structure and help raise your consciousness on how you will style out your answer.
2. Rough plans are vital
On the answer page, jot down any ideas about the question that comes into your mind. If you can link it to another, draw a line to it.
This has two great outcomes: Firstly, it helps you order some of your thoughts. Secondly, it demonstrates to the examiner how you process your thoughts. It doesn`t matter if some of it`s wrong at this stage. Even if some of it doesn`t make sense, the examiner may at least see where you are going with an idea.
If your answer appears a little chaotic, do not panic. If a point needs to be voided, you can cross it out. It is better to decide that now than writing a few sentences in your answer and then crossing all of that out.
3. Put your plan into the answer format
Each question word/s leads to a defined format. The format tells you want you need to write next in the answer. For example, it might be:
Paragraph 1: Definitions
Paragraph 2: One point for, why it is relevant, why it might not work
And so on..
Allocate your points to the structure. Sometimes you might have more than enough points. In which case, choose the more relevant ones that you can write in detail.
4. Write business sense not common sense
Demonstrate your knowledge of business studies by using business language and theory to explain your answer. Anyone can use common sense to come up with some answers. Instead, make sure you are referencing theory, explaining how it works, and why it works.
In summary: Plan, show your planning, format your answer, define, and confidently and appropriately adopt business studies terminology.
By Dan C, Business studies tutor.