21/06/2026
What are the most common IAL Economics mistakes?
Through your answers the examiners assess your
• Knowledge and Understanding ( AO1 )
• Analysis with chain of reasoning ( AO2 )
• Evaluation ( AO3 )
for Edexcel Economics
1 ) Not applying to the data/context - the quickest way to lose AO2 marks.
2 ) Listing points instead of building chains of reasoning (AO3).
3 ) Missing a diagram where one is clearly expected.
4 ) Mislabelling axes - write 'price level' (not 'price') on macro diagrams; label both axes and all curves.
5 ) No evaluation on the 10-, 12- and 20-mark questions.
6 ) Saving all evaluation for the conclusion instead of weaving it through.
7 ) Writing a long introduction and running out of time for analysis.
8 ) Ignoring the command word (e.g. evaluating when only 'explain' is asked, or vice versa).
9 ) Too many shallow points - develop fewer arguments more fully.
10 ) A conclusion with no judgement - always answer the actual question.
For Cambridge IAL
1 ) Generic answers that ignore the extract/data (the most common error in data response).
2 ) Listing points instead of building chains of reasoning (AO2).
3 ) Drawing a diagram but not explaining it in words — or mislabelling the axes.
4 ) No evaluation or judgement on 'discuss'/'evaluate' questions (AO3).
5 ) Treating a two-part (a)/(b) essay as one block — answer each part on its own.
6 ) Ignoring the command word (e.g. evaluating when only 'explain' is asked).
7 ) Poor time management — spending too long on data response and rushing the essays.
8 ) A conclusion that just summarises instead of giving a supported judgement.
How to respond to each command? “ keywords in the question “
Define / Give / State A precise, one-line meaning — use the exact syllabus term.
Calculate Work it out, showing your method and the figures from the data.
Explain Give reasons — a developed chain of reasoning (no evaluation needed).
Analyse Detailed chains of reasoning, usually with a labelled diagram.
Discuss / Consider Present arguments on both sides, then judge.
Evaluate / Assess / To what extent Weigh up the arguments and reach a clear, supported judgement.
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