SQA National 5 Business Management specification (X810 75)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your SQA National 5 Business Management 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 National 5 Business Management 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 National 5 Business Management (X810 75) 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 National 5 Business Management course equips learners with an understanding of how businesses operate and the dynamic environments in which they exist. It builds awareness of business decision-making, customer service, and financial literacy. Students explore enterprise, sustainability, and global markets, while developing core employability and analytical skills. The course is ideal for learners interested in business, whether as future employees, entrepreneurs or consumers, providing a foundation for further study or entry into the world of work.
Subject content breakdown
Understanding business
- Role of business in society, sectors of industry and economy
- Customer satisfaction and business objectives
- Types of business organisations and business plans
- Internal and external factors affecting organisations
- Stakeholders and their influence
Management of marketing
- Market segments, target markets and customer focus
- Market research: types, methods, benefits
- Marketing mix: product development, branding, pricing strategies, promotion
- Product life cycle and distribution channels
- Use of technology in marketing
Management of operations
- Supplier choice, inventory management, production methods
- Quality assurance and ethical/environmental production
- Use of technology in operations
Management of people
- Recruitment and selection processes
- Employment contracts and types of training
- Motivation, retention, and industrial action
- Employment legislation and HR technology
Management of finance
- Sources of finance and their suitability
- Break-even analysis, cash budgeting, income statements
- Financial interpretation and use of technology in finance
Assessment structure
Question Paper
- 2 hours
- 90 marks (75% of total)
- Section 1: Two 20-mark questions based on stimulus material
- Section 2: Five 10-mark questions covering the five study areas
- All questions are mandatory; assesses application, analysis and evaluation
Assignment
- Carried out under supervision
- 30 marks (25% of total)
- Up to 5 hours to complete
- Involves selecting a business topic, conducting research and writing a report
Assesses research, analysis, decision-making and report presentation
- Both components are externally assessed
- Grade awarded: A–D based on total marks
Key tips for success
Doing well in your SQA National 5 Business Management 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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