Answering 12-Mark Questions (Edexcel A Level Business)

Revision Note

Lisa Eades

Written by: Lisa Eades

Reviewed by: Steve Vorster

How Do I Answer an Edexcel A Level Business 12-Mark Question?

  • These questions appear in all three exam papers

  • Two marks are available for knowledge, two for application, four for analysis and four for evaluation.

Suggested structure

  • Key business skills are highlighted

Four coloured words: "Knowledge" in yellow, "Application" in blue, "Analysis" in pink, and "Evaluation" in green, each on a pastel background.

Step 1

  • Start off by showing some knowledge; defining a key term or using a business concept is good way to do this

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

Text about Traffic Light Lollies as low sales, low-growth items, labelled 'dog products' in Bon Bons' portfolio. Highlighted in yellow with side note.

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

screenshot-2024-05-03-174938

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 stem

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

Highlighted text discusses display space optimisation for sales, focusing on popular products. Side notes indicate counterpoints and reasoning logic.

Step 4

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

Text discussing the importance of Traffic Light Lollies in Bon Bon's range, highlighting brand heritage and consumer expectations with counterpoints.

Step 5

  • In your final paragraph, you need to make a supported judgement

  • This should be the most developed section of your response

  • Weigh up both of your arguments, considering their strength and relevance

  • A decision is required, along with the main reasons for your choice

    • Are there any context-specific reasons for your choice?

    • Do you have all of the information required to make a reliable recommendation?

    • Does your answer depend on any internal or external factors?

  • Try to broaden your reflection by considering factors such as

    • Whether your decision would be different in the long term

    • The views of different stakeholders

    • The contribution your decision may make to achieving business aims and objectives. 

Annotated text analysing a business decision about continuing the sale of Traffic Light Lollies, discussing market trends, sales impact, and risks of expired stock.

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Lisa Eades

Author: Lisa Eades

Expertise: Business Content Creator

Lisa has taught A Level, GCSE, BTEC and IBDP Business for over 20 years and is a senior Examiner for Edexcel. Lisa has been a successful Head of Department in Kent and has offered private Business tuition to students across the UK. Lisa loves to create imaginative and accessible resources which engage learners and build their passion for the subject.

Steve Vorster

Author: Steve Vorster

Expertise: Economics & Business Subject Lead

Steve has taught A Level, GCSE, IGCSE Business and Economics - as well as IBDP Economics and Business Management. He is an IBDP Examiner and IGCSE textbook author. His students regularly achieve 90-100% in their final exams. Steve has been the Assistant Head of Sixth Form for a school in Devon, and Head of Economics at the world's largest International school in Singapore. He loves to create resources which speed up student learning and are easily accessible by all.