Top Tips to Get an A* in IGCSE Economics

IGCSE Economics can feel overwhelming because it covers many topics and asks you to apply them to real-world situations. But don’t despair! This article provides simple strategies, useful resources, and practical tips from examiners, tutors, and teachers to help you revise effectively, avoid common mistakes, improve exam technique, and build the confidence to achieve that A* or equivalent 9.

Introduction

IGCSE Economics course is one of those subjects that links schoolwork directly to the world outside the classroom. Whether you’re studying supply and demand, government policies, or global trade, the course helps you make sense of the issues you read about in the news every day.

The exam, however, is demanding. It requires more than memorising notes or practising diagrams. You’ll need to understand key theories, apply them to different situations, and show evaluative thinking in your answers. The following sections explain how to build those skills, what examiners look for, and how to structure your revision so you’re ready for exam day.

What You Need to Know About the Exam

Before starting your revision plan, you should understand how the exam works.

Cambridge IGCSE Economics

Cambridge International Education (CIE) is assessed through two main papers:

• Paper 1: Multiple Choice
  This paper has about 30–40 multiple-choice questions, lasts 45 minutes, and focuses on recall, definitions, and short applications.
• Paper 2: Structured Questions
  This paper is worth around 80 marks, lasts 1 hour 45 minutes, and includes data response, short answers, and essay-style questions.

Paper 1 counts for about 30–40% of your final grade, while Paper 2 carries about 60–70%. This makes your ability to write structured answers and show economic analysis especially important. For a detailed breakdown of the syllabus, assessment structure, and grading criteria, you can check The Complete IGCSE Economics Study Guide.

Pearson Edexcel IGCSE Economics

Edexcel also offers an International GCSE in Economics with a slightly different structure:

• Paper 1: Focuses on microeconomics and business economics.
• Paper 2: Focuses on macroeconomics and the global economy.

Both papers combine multiple-choice, short-answer, data response, and extended writing questions. The assessment is linear, meaning you sit both exams at the end of the course, with each paper contributing 50% of the final grade. While Cambridge uses an A* to G scale for grading the course, Edexcel uses the UK’s newer 9 to 1 grading scale.

Understanding the exam structure for both CIE and Edexcel IGCSE Economics helps you focus your revision on the right skills and boosts your chances of achieving top marks.

Exam Technique – What Examiners Look For

Examiners are clear about what they reward: accurate knowledge, logical structure, applied examples, and balanced evaluation. Let’s look at how to show all of these in your answers and get that coveted A* or 9.

Understand Command Words (e.g., Define, Explain, Analyse, Evaluate)

Every question begins with a command word, and examiners expect you to respond in line with it.

• Define: Give a precise meaning. Keep it short and clear.
• Explain: Show how or why something happens, linking cause and effect.
• Analyse: Break down information, use diagrams or data, and explain relationships.
• Evaluate: Weigh arguments, consider strengths and weaknesses, and reach a conclusion.

Knowing what each word requires will stop you from writing too much or too little. It also ensures you answer exactly what is asked.

Structure Your Long Answers for Top Marks

Well-structured answers show examiners that you understand how to build an argument.

1. Use the PEEL Method
   • Point: State your main idea.
   • Explain: Expand on it clearly.
   • Example: Use a real-world case or diagram.
   • Link: Connect back to the question.
2. Balance Your Evaluation

When the question asks you to evaluate, you should give more than one side of the argument. For example, if you’re asked about the benefits of subsidies, write about the advantages and drawbacks. Make sure to end with a reasoned conclusion.

This approach shows critical thinking, which is essential for higher grades.

Top Strategies to Achieve an A* in IGCSE Economics

Once you’ve understood the exam requirements, the next step is to build a strong revision plan. The following strategies come directly from examiners and experienced tutors.

Use Past Papers and Examiner Reports

Past papers are your best friend in IGCSE Economics. They show you how topics are tested and help you practise exam skills.

• Identify Patterns in Questions
  Look at the last five years of papers. You’ll notice that specific topics, such as elasticity, government policy, or inflation, come up frequently.
• Study Examiner Reports
  After each exam, examiners release reports explaining what students did well and where they struggled. Reading these gives you insider knowledge about common mistakes.
• Practise Under Timed Conditions
  Sit past papers as if they were the real exam. Time yourself strictly. This helps you build exam stamina and learn to manage your time across different sections.
• Create a Personalised Glossary
  Write out all the economic definitions in your syllabus. Revise them using flashcards or apps like Quizlet. Precise definitions often earn quick marks.
• Collect Case Studies and Examples
  Make a bank of current examples, like rising oil prices, unemployment trends, or global trade disputes. Examiners reward students who connect theory to real life.

Build an Economic Vocabulary and Case Study Bank

Good answers use the right terms. Words like “opportunity cost”, “elasticity”, or “market equilibrium” need to be second nature. Build a vocabulary list and revise it weekly.

At the same time, collect case studies that match syllabus themes. For example:

• Inflation trends in the UK or US
• Government responses to unemployment in different countries
• Trade disputes like Brexit or US–China tariffs

Having examples ready makes your answers stand out.

Master Evaluation and Analysis

Top marks depend on evaluation. To improve:

• Always consider both benefits and drawbacks of a policy or scenario.
• Use “depends on” phrases, e.g., “This depends on how elastic demand is,” to show nuanced thinking.
• Rank multiple causes or factors by importance and explain why one is most significant.
• Examiners appreciate answers that demonstrate balance, judgment, and understanding of trade-offs.

Examiners love answers that show balance and judgement.

Make Your Revision Smarter

Hard work matters, but smart revision is more effective. Here are efficient methods:

1. Spaced Repetition: Revise topics multiple times with gaps between sessions.
2. Active Recall: Test yourself instead of just re-reading notes.
3. Mind Maps: Link related concepts visually, e.g., show how unemployment interacts with government spending.
4. Teaching Others: Explaining topics out loud or to a friend reinforces understanding and highlights gaps.

Use the Right Resources

Reliable resources make revision easier. You can use:

• Trusted IGCSE Economics revision notes.
• Textbooks endorsed by Cambridge or Edexcel.
• Examiner reports and past papers for insight into marking expectations.
• Online tutoring platforms for personalised guidance.

Experienced tutors can help you focus on weak areas, refine exam technique, and make revision more structured and effective.

With consistent practice, smart revision techniques, and focused use of reliable resources, you can maximise your performance and confidently aim for an A* in IGCSE Economics.

Common Mistakes Students Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Even strong students can lose marks by falling into common traps. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

Memorising Without Understanding

It’s easy to learn definitions by heart without knowing what they mean. Examiners test your ability to apply concepts, not just recall them. Always practise linking theory to examples.

Ignoring the Context of the Question

Many questions are set in real-world scenarios. If the question concerns unemployment in a specific country, answer with that context in mind rather than giving a generic definition.

Misreading the Command Words

If the question asks you to “analyse” and only “describe”, you’ll miss marks. Always underline the command word before starting your answer.

Poor Time Management in the Exam

Some students spend too long on one question and rush the rest. Practise timing yourself and stick to a plan. For example, in Paper 2 spend about 25 minutes on each 20-mark question.

By being aware of common mistakes such as misreading questions, using vague examples, or ignoring mark schemes and actively addressing them, you can improve accuracy and maximise your exam score.

Get Personalised Help to Reach an A*

While self-study is valuable, many students find that expert guidance can make a big difference. An IGCSE Economics tutor can help you focus on your weak areas with targeted practice, improve your essay writing skills through personalised feedback, and teach examiner techniques from someone who understands the mark schemes inside out. This guidance can also help you build confidence before the exam, ensuring you approach questions clearly and precisely.

TutorsPlus offers online tuition with experienced teachers who provide tailored support to meet your individual needs. If you are looking for structured guidance, booking a free trial session is a great way to start and see how a tutor can help you maximise your potential.

“Sara has been a terrific tutor. She reviews the material in a manner that is easy to understand and fosters a positive learning environment. My son’s ability to comprehend the material has increased greatly since Sara has been assisting him. His grades show that as well.”

FAQ

What is the best way to revise for IGCSE Economics?
Mix different strategies. Use past papers, revise definitions with flashcards, practise diagrams, and keep a case study bank. Combine self-study with feedback where possible.

How important are past papers for scoring an A?
Very important. They show the exact exam style and help you practise timing. Reviewing examiner reports alongside past papers is even more effective.

What topics should I focus on most?
Focus on high-frequency topics such as supply and demand, elasticity, government policies, unemployment, inflation, and trade. Development economics also appears often in structured questions.

How do I improve my evaluation skills in Paper 2?
Always balance pros and cons, use “depends on” statements, and give a final conclusion. Practise essay planning before writing full answers.

How can I manage my time in the exam?
Allocate time per question and stick to it. Use the number of marks as a guide. Don’t spend more than a few minutes on 2-mark questions, and leave enough time for the longer essays.

Is it better to revise alone or with a tutor?
Both have value. Solo study builds discipline, while an IGCSE Economics tutor can provide targeted support and feedback. A mix of both often works best.

Are definitions important for an A?
Yes. Definitions are often worth 1–2 marks each, and precise wording is expected. Use the wording from your syllabus or mark schemes.

How much writing do I need to do in Paper 2 to get an A?
Quality matters more than length. Write clear, structured answers with examples and evaluation. Avoid unnecessary repetition.

Final Thoughts

Getting an A* in IGCSE Economics takes consistent practice, careful planning, and effective exam technique. Focus on mastering definitions and diagrams, applying theory to real-world contexts, and developing strong evaluation skills. Use past papers, examiner reports, and structured revision methods to make your study time more productive.

If you need extra support, personalised tuition can push you to move from a good grade to an excellent one. With the right plan and consistent effort, you’ll be ready to confidently approach your IGCSE Economics exam and aim for the top grades. For personalised help, contact TutorsPlus at +41 22 731 8148 or .

By Sara Lloyd

Sara has been an education consultant for TutorsPlus for 15 years, and is an expert on international IB education.  She is also a parent of two lively children.