Exam technique: the Unit 1 paper, multiple choice and short answers

The paper

Unit 1 is examined in one written paper of 1 hour 45 minutes worth 80 marks. It is 50% of the International AS and 25% of the International A level. The specification sets out four sections:

• Section A: 6 multiple-choice questions (6 marks).
• Section B: 5 short-answer questions (20 marks; each 4 marks in recent papers).
• Section C: one data response question in five parts based on a source booklet (34 marks).
• Section D: one essay from a choice of two (20 marks).

With 105 minutes for 80 marks, allow roughly 1.3 minutes per mark: about 8 minutes for Section A, 26 for Section B, 45 for Section C and 26 for Section D.

The assessment objectives are AO1 knowledge and understanding, AO2 application to contexts, AO3 analysis, AO4 evaluation.

Section A: multiple choice

Each question carries 1 mark for the correct letter. Tips:

• Read the stem twice; underline words such as 'NOT', 'most likely', 'ceteris paribus'.
• For diagram or data questions, do a quick calculation or sketch in the margin.
• Eliminate options that confuse a movement with a shift, or PED with PES.
• Never leave a blank: there is no penalty for a wrong answer.

Section B: 4-mark questions

Recent Pearson mark schemes split 4 marks across knowledge (K), application (A) and analysis (An). Common patterns:

• Explain the difference between X and Y (K2, A2): define X (1) and Y (1), then apply each to the context (1 + 1).
• Draw a diagram (K1, A3): correctly labelled axes and original curves (1); the shift (1); the original and new equilibria (2).
• Calculate, showing your working (K1, A3): the formula (1), the working (2), the answer with sign or unit (1). A correct answer with working earns full marks.
• Explain one advantage/reason (K1, A1, An2): define the term (1), apply to the business or market named (1), and develop the point in a linked chain of reasoning (2).
• Explain, illustrating with a diagram (K1, A1, An2): define, draw the diagram with the change, and analyse what the diagram shows (for example the original and new surplus areas).

Definitions need precision: 'opportunity cost is the next best alternative forgone', not 'what you give up'. Learn the exact wording of key definitions from each lesson.

Diagram checklist

Every diagram: a title, labelled axes (Price, Quantity; or Costs and benefits, Output), labelled curves (D1, D2, S1, S2, MPC, MSC), equilibrium points and dotted lines to both axes (P1, Q1, P2, Q2), arrows showing shifts, and shaded, labelled areas when asked about surplus, tax revenue or welfare loss. Draw large, in pencil, with a ruler.

Worked example

4-mark question: 'With reference to a coffee shop, explain one advantage of the division of labour.' Write an answer that would earn every mark.

1. K (1): The division of labour is when production is split into separate tasks, each done by a different worker.
2. A (1): In a coffee shop one worker takes orders and payments while another makes the drinks.
3. An (2): Each worker repeats one task so becomes faster and more skilled, and no time is lost switching between the till and the coffee machine; so more customers are served per hour and the cost per drink falls.

Answer: Definition (1), context (1), two linked analytical steps (2).

Check yourself

1. The Unit 1 paper lasts 105 minutes and has 80 marks. How many minutes is that per mark (to 2 decimal places)?
   Show answer

   1.31. 105 / 80 = 1.3125, about 1.31 minutes per mark.

2. Using about 1.31 minutes per mark, roughly how many minutes should be spent on the 20-mark essay? Give your answer to the nearest minute.
   Show answer

   26 minutes. 20 x 1.3125 = 26.25, about 26 minutes.

3. How many marks is Section C (the data response) worth on the Unit 1 paper?
   • 20
   • 6
   • 26
   • 34
   Show answer

   34. Section C is a five-part question worth 34 marks.

4. Unit 1 counts for what share of the full International A level?
   • 25%
   • 50%
   • 33%
   • 100%
   Show answer

   25%. It is 50% of the IAS and 25% of the IAL.

5. In a 4-mark 'explain the difference between' question, how are marks usually earned?
   • A long evaluation of the two terms
   • A diagram only
   • A definition of each term and an application of each to the context
   • One definition and a conclusion
   Show answer

   A definition of each term and an application of each to the context. Pearson schemes give K2 for the definitions and A2 for applying each.

6. In a 'calculate' question, a student writes the correct final answer with clear working. How many of the 4 marks can be awarded?
   • All 4
   • 1
   • 2
   • None, without a diagram
   Show answer

   All 4. Pearson mark schemes award full marks for a correct answer with working.

7. Write a precise definition of opportunity cost suitable for an exam.
   Show answer

   Opportunity cost is the value of the next best alternative forgone when a choice is made.. Three key words.

Practise with instant feedback Print this lesson

Sources

• Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Subsidiary/Advanced Level in Economics specification (2018)
• Pearson WEC11/01 mark scheme, October 2022
• Pearson WEC11/01 mark scheme, June 2025 (copy hosted by Physics and Maths Tutor)
• Pearson qualifications: Edexcel International Advanced Level Economics (2018)

Last updated 8 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.