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Unlock This CourseGetting top marks in your IGCSE Business exam isn't just about knowing the content - it's about understanding exactly what the examiner wants from you. Every question contains specific command words that tell you how to structure your answer and what level of detail is needed.
Many students lose marks not because they don't know the business concepts, but because they don't answer the question properly. This guide will help you decode exam questions like a pro and give examiners exactly what they're looking for.
Key Definitions:
Students often know the business theory but struggle to apply it correctly in exams. Understanding command words can be the difference between a grade 6 and a grade 9. It's like having a secret code that unlocks what the examiner really wants!
Different command words require different types of responses. Let's break down the most common ones you'll see in your IGCSE Business exam:
These words test your understanding of business concepts and require factual responses.
What it means: Give a simple, factual answer with no explanation needed.
Example: "State two methods of market research." Answer: "Surveys and focus groups."
What it means: Give the exact meaning of a business term.
Example: "Define 'market share'." Answer: "The percentage of total sales in a market achieved by one business."
What it means: Give the main features or general principles, with brief explanations.
Example: "Outline two benefits of e-commerce." Answer: "Lower costs - no need for physical shops. Wider market - can sell globally online."
These require you to use your business knowledge in specific contexts or scenarios.
What it means: Give reasons why something happens, showing cause and effect.
Structure: Point → Explanation → Context
Example: "Explain why a business might use batch production." Answer: "Batch production allows flexibility (point) because different products can be made using the same equipment (explanation), which is useful for a bakery making different types of bread (context)."
What it means: Break down information to show how or why something happens, exploring relationships.
Structure: Point → Explanation → Development → Context
Example: "Analyse the impact of inflation on a business." Answer: "Rising costs (point) mean businesses pay more for raw materials (explanation), which reduces profit margins unless prices are increased (development), particularly affecting price-sensitive markets like budget retail (context)."
What it means: Make judgements by weighing up advantages and disadvantages, then reach a reasoned conclusion.
Structure: Arguments for → Arguments against → Judgement → Justification
A student answered "Explain why businesses use market research" by simply listing methods like surveys and interviews. They lost marks because 'explain' requires reasons (to reduce risk, understand customers, identify opportunities) not just methods. Always check what the command word is asking for!
Before you start writing, spend time analysing the question. This investment of 30 seconds can save you from losing marks later.
Use this four-step approach to break down any business question:
Circle or underline the command word. This tells you HOW to answer.
Example: "Analyse the benefits of training for employees" - the command word is 'analyse'.
Identify WHAT the question is about - the main topic or business concept.
Example: The focus is 'benefits of training for employees'.
Look for any specific business context, industry, or scenario mentioned.
Example: "...for a small manufacturing business" - this is your context.
Check how many marks are available and plan your answer structure accordingly.
Example: 6 marks = need 3 developed points or 2 detailed analytical points.
The number of marks tells you how much detail and development is needed:
Requirement: Simple, factual answers
Time: 1-2 minutes
Example: "State one advantage of partnership" (1 mark) = "Shared workload"
Requirement: Developed explanations with examples
Time: 4-6 minutes
Example: "Explain two benefits of market research" (4 marks) = Two points, each with explanation
Requirement: Detailed analysis or evaluation with judgements
Time: 10-15 minutes
Example: "Evaluate the use of social media marketing" (10 marks) = Balanced argument with conclusion
Always read the question twice! First time for general understanding, second time to pick out command words, context and marks. This prevents you from answering the question you think you see rather than the one actually asked.
Learn from the mistakes that cost students marks every year:
Problem: Giving generic answers when specific context is provided.
Solution: Always relate your answer to the business scenario given. If it's about a restaurant, use restaurant examples!
Problem: Explaining when asked to evaluate, or listing when asked to analyse.
Solution: Learn what each command word requires and stick to it throughout your answer.
Problem: Not developing points enough for the marks available.
Solution: Use the mark allocation as a guide - 6 marks needs more than one sentence!
Problem: Rambling answers that don't follow a logical structure.
Solution: Plan your answer structure before writing, especially for high-mark questions.
Put your question analysis skills into practice with these proven exam techniques:
Use this simple rule: 1 mark = 1 minute + 10% reading time
Spend 2-3 minutes maximum. Quick, factual answers only.
Allow 7-8 minutes. Plan for 30 seconds, write for 6-7 minutes.
Take 12-15 minutes. Plan for 2 minutes, write for 10-12 minutes, check for 1 minute.
Sarah improved her Business grade from a 5 to an 8 simply by spending more time analysing questions before answering. She realised she was writing excellent explanations for 'evaluate' questions but never giving judgements. Understanding command words transformed her results!
For high-mark questions, use this winning formula:
Start with a clear point that directly addresses the question. Show the examiner you understand what's being asked.
Explain your point thoroughly and link it to the business context provided. Use specific examples where possible.
Consider alternative viewpoints or limitations. Show you can see both sides of business decisions.
For evaluation questions, make a clear judgement based on your analysis. Don't sit on the fence!