Business decision making and command words exam tips

Exam tips

• Use the 'define, explain, analyse' framework

  Start by identifying the command word, then structure your answer accordingly: give a definition, explain the concept, and analyse its implications.

  This ensures you meet the assessment criteria and demonstrate a clear understanding of the business terminology.

• Using the command word 'analyse' effectively

  Break the question into clear parts, identify the key elements, explain the causes and effects, and support each point with evidence or examples.

  A structured approach ensures you address all aspects of the question and demonstrate a thorough understanding of the business concept.

• Structure your answer with the P‑E‑A method

  Plan, Explain, Analyse – start with a brief plan, then explain the data, and finally analyse the implications.

  This keeps answers focused, shows clear reasoning, and helps you cover all parts of the question within the time limit.

• Structure your evaluation answer

  Begin with a clear judgement, then present evidence, analyse pros and cons, and finish with a balanced conclusion.

  Shows logical flow and satisfies the ‘evaluate’ command.

• Use the PRAISE structure for short answers

  Plan, Reason, Analyse, Illustrate, Summarise, Evaluate – this helps you cover all required elements in a concise answer.

  It ensures you address the command word, give logical reasoning, and finish with a clear conclusion, which examiners look for.