Essay Technique & Evaluation

The 25-mark essay is the single most important question type in AQA A-Level Economics. It appears in Paper 1 Section B, Paper 2 Section B, and effectively in the high-tariff questions of Paper 3 Section B. The difference between a mediocre essay and an excellent one is not just knowledge — it is structure, analytical depth, diagram integration, and above all, the quality of evaluation. This lesson breaks down exactly how to write essays that reach the top level of the mark scheme.

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The 25-Mark Essay Structure

AQA mark scheme descriptors make clear what is required at each level. The most effective structure for a 25-mark essay is:

Recommended Structure

1. Introduction (2–3 sentences)
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2. Analysis Point 1 + Diagram
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3. Evaluation of Point 1
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4. Analysis Point 2 + Diagram
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5. Evaluation of Point 2
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6. (Optional) Analysis Point 3
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7. (Optional) Evaluation of Point 3
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8. Conclusion with Judgement

Let us examine each component in detail.

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1. Introduction (2–3 sentences)