AQA Economics Paper 3 Preparation Guide

Importance of Paper 3

• Opportunity: Highest scoring paper; chance to boost grades.
• Preparation: Key to a successful outcome; aim for full marks.

Preparation Strategies

Ignore Predictions

• Do not rely on external predictions; focus on your preparation.
• Extracts in the exam will guide your answers.

Content Mastery

• Revise micro and macro topics regularly.
• Ensure understanding of all topics covered in Papers 1 and 2.

Practice Questions

• Multiple Choice:
  • Practice hundreds, in topic blocks.
  • Understand why answers are correct or incorrect.
• Essay Questions:
  • Plan 10, 15, and 25 markers.
  • Focus on integrating micro and macro concepts in essays.

Utilize Resources

• Watch AQA exam technique videos for detailed guidance.

Exam Structure

Section A: Multiple Choice

• 30 questions (15 micro, 15 macro).
• Tips for Success:
  • Practice past questions.
  • Highlight key question elements and eliminate wrong answers.
  • Use elimination techniques to deal with "distractor" answers.
  • Write down thoughts to avoid errors.
  • Aim to complete in 20-25 minutes.

Section B: Essays

• Essays: 10 marker, 15 marker, 25 marker.

10 Marker

• "To what extent does the data suggest...?"
• Structure:
  • Define key terms.
  • Three analysis paragraphs: data reference, explanation (how), rationale (why).
  • Include evaluation of data limitations.
  • Conclude with a judgment paragraph.
• Time Allocation: 20 minutes.

15 Marker

• Linked to extracts; similar to previous papers but uses extract data.
• Structure:
  • Define key terms.
  • Two to three analysis paragraphs using extract data.
  • Consider diagrams if applicable.
• Time Allocation: 20 minutes.

25 Marker

• "Justify a recommendation."
• Structure:
  • Analysis and evaluation with extracts.
  • Integrate both micro and macro elements.
• Time Allocation: 40 minutes.

Additional Tips

• Read extracts as needed, not all at the start.
• Manage time effectively across sections for buffer time.
• Ensure micro and macro elements are present in essays.

Final Advice

• Follow all resources and guidance provided.
• Engage with additional upcoming materials.
• Stay confident and aim to excel in Paper 3.