TL;DR
- Exam format: 1 hr 45 mins, 90 marks, two case-study sections.
- Official title: Influences of Operations and Human Resource Management (HRM) on Business Activity.
- Focus areas: Business in the Real World, Influences on Business, Business Operations, Human Resources.
- Key skills: Applying theory to case studies, calculations, balanced evaluation.
- Top tip: Always use evidence from the case study in your answers.
- Best prep: Practise with exam-style predicted papers 👉 Predicted Paper 1 for 2026
AQA GCSE Business Paper 1 (8132/1) is titled “Influences of Operations and Human Resource Management on Business Activity.” It makes up 50% of your overall GCSE grade and tests how well you understand the core areas of business and apply them to real-world scenarios.
In this guide, we’ll break down the structure of Paper 1, the key content, and how you can maximise your marks in 2026.
1. Know the Structure of Paper 1
Paper 1 lasts 1 hour 45 minutes and is marked out of 90. It is split into two sections:
- Section A: Multiple-choice and short-answer questions testing knowledge and application.
- Section B: A case study with structured questions, including calculations and extended responses.
The question types include:
- Multiple-choice (1 mark each).
- Short “state” or “explain” questions (2–4 marks).
- Calculation questions (show your workings).
- Extended 9-mark recommend questions requiring evaluation.
2. Revise the Key Content Areas
Paper 1 draws from the following topics in the specification:
- Business in the Real World – business objectives, ownership, stakeholders, and enterprise.
- Influences on Business – technology, ethics, globalisation, legislation, and the economy.
- Business Operations – methods of production, quality, customer service, supply chains.
- Human Resources (HRM) – recruitment, training, organisation structures, and motivation.
You’ll need to show strong knowledge (AO1), but also apply it to case study contexts (AO2).
3. Practise the Calculations
Expect at least one calculation-based question. Common ones include:
- Revenue, costs, and profit.
- Productivity.
- Average unit cost.
- Break-even analysis.
Tips:
- Show your full workings.
- Use the right units (£, %, output, etc.).
- Even if your final answer is wrong, method marks can still secure you points.
4. Apply to the Case Study for Higher Marks
Examiners want to see you applying knowledge to the business in the case study. This is how you hit AO2.
For example:
❌ “Good customer service improves loyalty.”
✅ “If BeanBuzz improves customer service, it may win back customers lost to the new national chain café.”
The second answer gains application marks because it directly uses case study evidence.
5. Master the 9-Mark Recommend Questions
These questions are where students often gain or lose the most marks. To score well:
- Explain both options (advantages and disadvantages).
- Apply each point to the context of the business.
- Analyse the short- and long-term impacts.
- Finish with a clear, justified recommendation.
Evaluation (AO3) is all about balance and making a supported judgement.
6. Practise with Realistic Exam Papers
The best way to prepare is by using practice papers that match the structure and style of the real exam. This helps with exam technique, time management, and building confidence.
👉 Get your 2026 predicted paper 1 here
Our 2026 Predicted Paper 1 with full guided mark scheme is designed to replicate the real exam and give you a genuine edge going into the summer series.
Final Tips for Success
- Revise broadly — don’t focus only on operations.
- Learn your formulas and practise calculations.
- Always link answers to the case study for AO2 marks.
- Write justified conclusions in 9-mark questions.
With the right revision and exam practice, you’ll be ready to master Paper 1: Influences of Operations and HRM on Business Activity in 2026 and secure top marks.