How to get your A1: Economics

A good grade is definitely achievable, all it takes is some consistency.

Making a study timetable, including all of the topics, and studying them as they come up in class, is ideal. But it is essential to keep revising the topics you have already done, incorporating them into the timetable too. This is the work that makes all the difference come June.

Despite being just two and a half hours long, the paper is very accessible. The huge amount of choice offered is a major advantage, meaning it is possible to concentrate more on some aspects of the course than others.

In section A you answer six out of nine questions, worth 100 marks, but answering all nine is a must for maximising marks. You have 25 minutes for this section – plenty of time. I advise practising a past paper section A exam weekly as alot of the questions are repeated from year to year.

Whether you thrive on the detail of macro-economic answers or love the precision of micro-economics, there will be four of the eight 75 mark questions in section B that you prefer. Answer your best question first, second best next, etc. Spend about 27 minutes on each section B question, leaving you leeway time to look back over your answers.

Some simple things are key to success in economics:

• Label and title each question clearly.
• Underline answer headings.
• Use bullet points.
• Use examples and/or figures.
• Draw large diagrams, label clearly.
• Write down everything you know. Never leave exam early.
• Keep a definition copy and look over regularly, eg on the bus.
• Practise exam papers using the marking schemes.
• Keep on top of class tests.
• Print out section As to practise the format.
• Ask for help if you don't understand.
• Don't stress.
• Get into the habit of doing these, keep your study consistent and you'll be well on your way.

Finola O’Sullivan