Exam Technique

Question 1

What structure to follow in conclusion?

Answer 1

AJIM:

• Answer
• Justify
• It depends
• Most important

Question 2

What 5 things to always consider in analysis?

Answer 2

1. Simple point
2. Explain why
3. Answer question: consequences
4. Examples / evidence
5. Write to non-economist

Question 3

What 6 things to always consider in evaluation?

Answer 3

Anything limiting point effectiveness:
1. LR vs SR
2. Question assumptions (ceteris paribus, realistic impact)
3. Elasticities
4. Winners / losers (all agents)
5. Real-world examples
6. Negative consequences

Question 4

What is the structure of an 8 marker?

Answer 4

• 2 factors / reasons (explicity from data), definitions
• Reference extract, use data
• Simple chain (~2 sentences)
• Each brief evaluative comment

Question 5

What is the structure of a 12 marker?

Answer 5

• 2 KAA paragraphs then
• 1 eval paragraph
• Depth, application, evidence, diagrams

Question 6

What is the structure of a 25 marker?

Answer 6

• Intro, definitions
• 2 KAA + Eval pairs (micro & macro)
• Depth, application, evidence, diagrams
• Final judgment (AJIM)

Question 7

How is time allocated in the exam?

Answer 7

Extracts: 5 min max
5-8-12: Mark a min
25: 30 min

Question 8

What are the micro causes / impacts to identify?

Answer 8

POPSICLE:
- Prices
- Output
- Profit
- Structure of market
- Inefficiency
- Competition
- Labour markets
- Externalities

Question 9

What are the macro causes / impacts to identify?

Answer 9

DIGESTIF:
- Development
- Inflation
- Growth
- Employment
- Structure of economy
- Trade balance
- Inequality
- Fiscal balance