Methodology

This list is based on analysis of Pearson Edexcel International A-Level Business past papers (2019–2024), examiner reports, mark schemes and specification. Topics are ranked by frequency. Examiner reports emphasise application to context.

Top 10 most frequently tested topics

1. Application to context (scenario)

Evidence: Examiner reports repeatedly note generic answers. AO2 and AO3 require application to the case study.

Covers: using the case study; applying concepts to the specific business; not repeating scenario without application.

2. Marketing

Evidence: Marketing mix, market research, pricing. Appears in most papers.

Covers: 4Ps; market research; segmentation; product life cycle; branding.

3. Human resources

Evidence: Motivation, recruitment, training, organisational structure. Examiner reports note application.

Covers: motivation theories; recruitment; training; communication; organisational structure.

4. Finance and accounts

Evidence: Cash flow, break-even, investment appraisal. Core topic.

Covers: cash flow; break-even; profit; investment appraisal; sources of finance.

5. Operations management

Evidence: Methods of production, quality, lean production. Examiner reports note lean vs methods confusion.

Covers: job, batch, flow; quality; lean production; JIT; capacity utilisation.

6. Strategy and decision-making

Evidence: Strategic analysis; decision-making. Extended questions.

Covers: SWOT; Ansoff; decision trees; strategic choice.

7. External influences

Evidence: Government, economy, ethics, PESTLE. Examiner reports note context.

Covers: government; economic factors; ethics; competition; PESTLE.

8. Business structure and objectives

Evidence: Types of business; objectives; stakeholders. Foundation.

Covers: sole trader; partnership; company; objectives; stakeholders; mission.

9. Growth and change

Evidence: Internal and external growth. Examiner reports note application.

Covers: mergers; takeovers; economies of scale; change management.

10. Definitions and terminology

Evidence: Examiner reports note imprecise definitions. Required terminology costs marks.

Covers: precise definitions; key terms; added value; entrepreneur.

Revision priority

Application to context is essential—use the business scenario. Definitions must be precise. See Edexcel A-Level common mistakes overview.

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Sources: Edexcel past papers 2019–2024, examiner reports, specification.