Answering 4-Mark Questions (DP IB Economics): Revision Note

How to answer IB Economics 4-mark questions

• 4-mark questions assess your ability to apply and analyse economic theory clearly and accurately

• They often sit at the boundary between short factual responses and more developed analytical answers

• These questions are most closely linked to AO2 (application and analysis) and sometimes AO4 when diagrams are required

What examiners are looking for

• For 4 marks, examiners typically expect:

  • a clear explanation of an economic relationship, and

  • accurate use of theory, diagrams, or data where required

• Marks are usually awarded for:

  • correct economic reasoning, and

  • clear development of the explanation

• Always read the full question carefully to identify:

  • the variable being explained, and

  • whether a diagram is required

Common command terms

• Explain – describe an economic relationship using theory

• Explain using a diagram – support your explanation with a correctly labelled diagram

• Explain how – focus on cause-and-effect relationships

How to structure your answer

• A strong 4-mark answer usually includes:

  • one or two short, well-developed paragraphs, and

  • a diagram only if explicitly required

• If a diagram is required:

  • draw it clearly and label all axes and curves

  • refer to it directly in your written explanation