How to Master AQA A-Level Business Paper 2 in 2026
AQA A-Level Business Paper 2 is the second exam in the series and is based entirely on data-response questions. The paper lasts 2 hours and is worth 100 marks. Unlike Paper 1, there are no multiple-choice questions or essay choices — instead, you must answer three compulsory data-response case studies, each worth around 33 marks.
Paper 2 tests how well you can apply your knowledge to business contexts, interpret information, and build logical, well-argued responses.
1. Understand the Paper 2 Format
Each of the three case studies provides data and information about a business situation. You then answer a set of structured questions based on that material, ranging from shorter calculations to extended written responses.
The case studies can cover any part of the specification, from marketing and finance to human resources and operations. Because there’s no choice, you need to be ready for everything.
2. Balance the Assessment Objectives
Like the other papers, Paper 2 assesses all four AOs:
AO1: Knowledge and understanding of business concepts and models.
AO2: Application to the case study context.
AO3: Analysis through logical chains of reasoning.
AO4: Evaluation and judgement.
The key to Paper 2 is AO2 — you must constantly apply your answers to the business in the case study. Writing generic responses without linking to the context is the fastest way to lose marks.
3. Avoid Common Mistakes
Examiners’ reports often point out the same issues in Paper 2. Students sometimes rush through data without fully interpreting it. Others focus too much on theory and forget to apply it to the numbers or business situation provided. Many also struggle with evaluation, offering a conclusion that isn’t fully justified.
Always use the data in your answers, whether that’s figures in a financial table or details about the business in the case study.
4. Revise Actively
To prepare for Paper 2, practise interpreting data and building arguments around it. Work on financial calculations such as ratios, break-even, and investment appraisal, then go beyond the maths by explaining what the results mean for the business.
Essay-style questions require a clear structure. Use a “chain of analysis” approach: make a point, explain it, back it up with case study evidence, and then link it back to the wider business situation. End with a reasoned judgement that weighs up the options.
5. Use Predicted Papers for Realistic Practice
Because Paper 2 uses compulsory case studies, it’s unpredictable — you can’t choose to avoid a topic. Predicted papers are valuable because they mirror the structure, difficulty, and likely areas of focus for 2026, helping you practise under exam-style conditions.
We’ve created an AQA A-Level Business Paper 2 Predicted Paper (2026) with a full guided mark scheme. It replicates the real exam’s format and shows exactly how marks are awarded, so you can sharpen your technique before June.
👉 Check out the Predicted Paper 2 (AQA Business 2026)
Buy All 3 Papers for Full Prep
Paper 2 is only part of the story. To perform at your best, you should practise across all three AQA Business exams:
Paper 1 (MCQs, short answers, and essays)
Paper 2 (Data-response case studies)
Paper 3 (A full case study with several compulsory questions)
Our AQA Business Predicted Paper Bundle (2026) includes all three papers with full guided mark schemes, giving you complete exam coverage and saving you money compared to buying separately.
👉 Get the AQA Business Predicted Paper Bundle (2026)
Final Thoughts
Paper 2 tests your ability to apply theory to context and use data to support analysis and evaluation. By practising financial calculations, interpreting case studies, and working with exam-style predicted papers, you’ll be well prepared for this crucial part of the A-Level Business course.