SQA Advanced Higher Geography specification (X833 77)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your SQA Advanced Higher Geography exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official SQA Advanced Higher Geography specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official SQA Advanced Higher Geography (X833 77) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official SQA specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Advanced Higher Geography course develops learners' understanding of the human and physical processes that shape the world. It promotes independent study, critical thinking, and the application of geographical methods to contemporary issues. The course equips candidates with research, mapping and statistical skills, and fosters environmental awareness, responsible citizenship and global understanding. Learners explore spatial relationships and investigate complex issues, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society and prepare for further study or careers in geography and related fields.Subject content breakdown
Geographical skills
- Use of OS maps (1:25,000) for interpretation of landscape features, relief, and human activity
- Develop research skills: identifying topics, planning, fieldwork, evaluating methodology
- Apply graphical and statistical techniques to collect, analyse and interpret geographical data
- Techniques include beach profile, slope analysis, pedestrian surveys, traffic counts, soil/stream/vegetation studies
- Use and evaluation of both primary and secondary data sources
Geographical issues
- Critical evaluation of complex geographical issues using multiple sources
- Identify, summarise and assess viewpoints
- Evaluate the balance, credibility and relevance of evidence
- Draw conclusions based on sound geographical reasoning
Geographical data handling
- Handle data types: nominal, ordinal, interval
- Use sampling methods: random, regular, stratified
- Graphical techniques: kite diagrams, bipolar analysis, dispersion, scattergraphs, polar graphs
- Mapping techniques: choropleth, isoline, dot, transects, proportional symbols, flow lines
- Statistical techniques: mean, median, mode, standard deviation, chi-squared, Spearman’s rank, Pearson’s coefficient
Assessment structure
Question Paper
- 50 marks, 2 hours 30 minutes
- Assesses application of geographical skills and knowledge
- Map interpretation (20 marks): using OS maps and supplementary visuals
- Gathering and processing techniques (10 marks): research and fieldwork methodologies
- Geographical data handling (20 marks): interpretation and statistical evaluation of data
- Candidates attempt all questions
- Use of general atlas permitted in exam
Project–Folio: Geographical Study
- 60 marks (40% of total)
- Independent research or fieldwork on a complex geographical topic
- Demonstrates planning, methodology, processing, analysis, and conclusion drawing
- Maximum 3,000 words
Project–Folio: Geographical Issue
- 40 marks (27% of total)
- Critical evaluation of a current complex issue using at least three sources
- Includes summary, evaluation of viewpoints and conclusion
- Maximum 1,800 words
Grading
- Grade A–D awarded based on total marks from all three components
- External marking and quality assurance by SQA
Key tips for success
Doing well in your SQA Advanced Higher Geography isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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