How to Revise for A-level Economics – Get an A*

Navigating through A-Level Economics requires a blend of theoretical understanding and practical application. Students often wonder how to get an A* in A-Level Economics and therefore, how to revise effectively to achieve top marks in their exams. This blog delves into effective revision strategies, leveraging A-Level Economics revision timetable, and sweating the need to use past papers.

10 Tips for Effective A-Level Economics Revision

1. Create a Flexible Revision Timetable – Use tools like ‘My Study Life‘ or ‘Google Calendar’ to plan your revision schedule, ensuring a balance between different topics.
2. Utilise Revision Notes and Flashcards – Platforms like Quizlet offer digital flashcards to reinforce key theories. For example, create cards for key economic models and definitions.
3. Practice with Past Papers – Access A-Level Economics past papers from your exam board’s website (AQA, Edexcel, OCR, etc.). Regular practice helps familiarise you with exam formats and question styles.
4. Apply Theory to Current Events – Use resources like The Economist or BBC News to find real-world examples that relate to your syllabus. For instance, use a recent economic policy change to illustrate supply and demand principles.
5. Master Diagrams and Models – Utilise YouTube channels like EconplusDal for tutorials on drawing and interpreting key economic diagrams.
6. Focus on Weak Areas – Identify challenging topics for tailored study materials.
7. Leverage Online Resources – Platforms like Khan Academy and Coursera offer comprehensive materials on various economics topics, aiding in understanding complex theories.
8. Engage in Regular Self-Assessment -Use apps like ‘Gojimo‘ to test your knowledge on different economics topics.
9. Stay Updated with Economic Affairs – Follow economic news on platforms like ‘Bloomberg‘ or ‘Financial Times‘ to integrate current affairs into your revision.
10. Seek Help When Necessary – If struggling with certain topics, consider online tutoring platforms like Edumentors for personalised guidance from UK’s top A-level economics tutors.

Crafting an Effective A-Level Economics Revision Timetable

An A-Level revision timetable is crucial for structured learning. It should allow flexibility for unexpected events and include breaks to avoid burnout. Here’s how to create an effective timetable

• List Economics Topics – Prioritise them based on your comfort level and exam requirements.
• Allocate Time – Dedicate more time to challenging areas while reviewing all topics.
• Mix Activities – Combine reading revision notes, practising past papers, and watching relevant economic news or documentaries.
• Regular Breaks – Include short breaks for rest, crucial for maintaining concentration.
• Practice Tests – Use A-Level Economics past papers to gauge your understanding and readiness.

A-level Economics Revision Timetable Example

Monday

• 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Review Microeconomics concepts (focus on areas of difficulty).
• 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Short Break.
• 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM: Watch a documentary on current economic issues (e.g., a recent episode from ‘Planet Money’).
• 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Practice questions on Microeconomics topics.
• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break.
• 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Read through A-Level Economics revision notes on Market Structures.
• 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Attempt a past paper section on Market Structures.

Tuesday

• 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Study Macroeconomics, focusing on International Economics.
• 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Short Break.
• 10:15 AM – 11:00 AM: Analyse a recent article from ‘The Economist’ on global trade.
• 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Revise Economic indicators and their implications.
• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break.
• 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Work on a past paper focusing on Macroeconomics.
• 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Self-assessment quiz using an app like ‘Gojimo’.

Wednesday

• 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Dive into Labour Market economics.
• 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Short Break.
• 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM: Create mind maps for Labour Market policies.
• 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Past paper questions on Labour Markets.
• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break.
• 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Watch a YouTube tutorial on Labour Market diagrams.
• 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Review and summarise today’s learning.

Thursday

• 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Revise Environmental Economics.
• 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Short Break.
• 10:15 AM – 11:00 AM: Case study analysis on recent environmental policies.
• 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Work through revision flashcards on key Economic terms.
• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break.
• 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Attempt a full past paper under exam conditions.
• 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Review past paper answers and mark against the mark scheme.

Friday

• 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Focus on areas identified as weak from Thursday’s past paper.
• 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Short Break.
• 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM: Engage in peer discussion/review session on challenging topics.
• 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Quick revision of key economic models.
• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break.
• 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Practice essay writing on a chosen Economics topic.
• 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: End week with a light review of the week’s learning and planning for next week.

Addressing the Question: Is A-Level Economics Hard?

Similar to A-level physics, A-Level Economics poses its challenges, but with a systematic approach to revision and the right resources, the subject becomes more manageable. Understanding and applying economic concepts effectively is crucial.

Last-Minute Revision Tips for A-level Economics

For impactful last-minute revision:

• Utilise concise revision guides like ‘CGP A-Level Economics Revision Guide’.
• Focus on summarising key themes and concepts.
• Practice with specific sections of past papers targeting your weaker areas.
• Keep up-to-date with a brief overview of current economic affairs for real-world application examples.

Final Thoughts

Success in A-Level Economics lies in balancing theoretical knowledge with practical application. Consistent revision, aided by the right strategies and resources, will deepen your understanding and prepare you effectively for exams. Aim not only for high grades but also for a profound understanding of economics, setting a solid foundation for your future academic and professional endeavours.

Our dedicated A-Level Economics tutors are here to guide you through this journey, providing personalised support and expert insights to help you excel in your studies.