7 Common Mistakes JC Students Make in A Level Economics (And How to Avoid Them)
Many JC students put in hours of study, but marks still don’t improve. Often, this isn’t due to lack of effort—it’s because small mistakes in understanding, application, or exam technique cost marks.
Dr Anthony Fok, a former MOE Economics teacher and A Level Economics examiner, highlights the most common mistakes and how students can avoid them.
1. Misunderstanding the Question
Students often misread or partially answer questions. Common issues include:
- Ignoring command words such as “evaluate”, “discuss”, “to what extent”
- Writing everything they know about a topic instead of focusing on the question
- Failing to link answers to the context
Tip: Always identify the command word and underline key terms before writing.
2. Over-Reliance on Memorisation
Memorising essays or CSQs without understanding application can backfire. Examiners look for:
- Evidence of reasoning and analysis
- Contextual application of concepts
- Logical evaluation
Tip: Focus on understanding concepts and practising applying them rather than rote memorisation.
3. Weak Evaluation
Evaluation is often the difference between a B and an A. Mistakes include:
- Generic phrases without judgement
- One-sided arguments
- Lack of depth or explanation
Tip: Practise weighing pros and cons, considering limitations, and making reasoned judgements.
4. Poor Time Management
Many students know the content but fail to complete papers due to:
- Spending too long on familiar questions
- Rushing CSQs or essays
- Not leaving time for review
Tip: Allocate time per question, practice under timed conditions, and include mini time checks.
5. Ignoring Data in CSQs
Students sometimes overlook the data provided in case studies, which can cost marks. Mistakes include:
- Describing data without analysis
- Using data incorrectly
- Ignoring trends or comparisons
Tip: Always reference data explicitly and integrate it into your analysis.
6. Writing Long, Unfocused Answers
Writing more doesn’t equal more marks. Common problems:
- Including irrelevant content
- Repeating points
- Losing clarity and structure
Tip: Plan answers, stick to relevant points, and conclude clearly.
7. Failing to Learn from Feedback
Students often review model answers but don’t analyse why marks were lost. Common issues:
- Repeating the same mistakes
- Focusing only on what was right
- Ignoring structure, evaluation, or application errors
Tip: Use feedback to target weaknesses and refine essays and CSQs systematically.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these common mistakes is critical for improving A Level Economics results. With structured guidance, practice, and examiner insight, students can transform small errors into opportunities for marks.
Dr Anthony Fok’s tuition programmes focus on examiner-style guidance, helping students identify pitfalls early and develop strong, confident exam techniques.
For comprehensive JC Economics tuition in Singapore with examiner guidance, learn more about Dr Anthony Fok’s Economics tuition programme.
For tips on CSQs and avoiding data-related errors, see how to score for H2 Economics CSQs.