Answering 2-Mark Questions (DP IB Economics): Revision Note

How to answer IB Economics 2-mark questions

• 2-mark questions test precision and accuracy, not how much you know

• They appear across all three exam papers and are most closely linked to AO1 (knowledge and understanding), with occasional links to AO4 where technical accuracy is required

• These are often described as “easy marks”, but they are also where many students lose marks unnecessarily

What examiners are looking for

• For 2 marks, examiners expect either:

  • one accurate definition, or

  • two distinct, correct points, depending on the command term

• Each correct point is worth one mark

• No development, examples, diagrams, or evaluation are required unless explicitly stated

Common command terms

• Define – give the precise meaning of an economic term

• State / List / Identify – provide the required number of points without explanation

How to structure your answer

• Write one clear sentence per mark

• Use precise economic terminology

• Keep answers short and focused

• Stop writing once the marks are secured

Common mistakes to avoid

• These mistakes do not gain extra marks and may introduce errors.

  • Writing long explanations or mini-paragraphs

  • Giving vague definitions (e.g. “prices go up”)

  • Listing more points than required

  • Using examples instead of definitions