If you want an A or A* in A Level Business Edexcel 2026, mastering the 20-mark question is essential.
These extended questions carry huge weight in your final grade. Many students understand the content — but lose marks through poor structure, weak evaluation or unclear judgement.
If you want full predicted 20-mark questions, model A* answers and examiner-style guidance tailored specifically for Edexcel Business 2026, you can access the complete A* Revision Bundle here:
👉 A-Level Business Edexcel 2026 A* Bundle
Now let’s break down exactly how to structure a 20-mark answer properly.
What Is the Examiner Looking For?
In Edexcel A Level Business, 20-mark questions typically use command words like:
- Assess
- Evaluate
These questions test:
- Application (AO2)
- Analysis (AO3)
- Evaluation (AO4)
To reach the highest level, you must demonstrate:
- Sustained contextual application
- Developed analytical chains
- Balanced evaluation
- Clear, prioritised judgement
Structure is what allows you to show all four consistently.
The Ideal 20 Mark Structure
A strong structure looks like this:
1. Brief Introduction (1–2 sentences)
Define key terms if necessary and frame the issue in context.
2. First Developed Argument
Explain the main reason supporting the statement.
Apply context precisely.
Develop a full chain of reasoning.
3. Counterargument
Present a developed argument against the statement.
Again, apply context.
Avoid being superficial.
4. Wider or Deeper Factor
Introduce another significant consideration, such as long-term effects, risk, financial impact or strategic implications.
5. Clear Final Judgement
Decide which factor is most significant and justify why.
Your conclusion must not simply repeat earlier points.
It must prioritise.
What Strong Analysis Looks Like
Weak analysis:
“Increasing advertising increases sales.”
Stronger analysis:
“Increasing advertising expenditure may raise brand awareness, shifting demand right. Higher sales revenue may increase contribution. If fixed costs remain stable, this could improve profit margins and retained profit.”
Each logical step strengthens your answer.
Examiners reward developed reasoning.
How to Write High-Level Evaluation
Evaluation separates A from A*.
Strong evaluation includes:
- Short-term vs long-term impact
- Scale of effect
- Risk and uncertainty
- Dependency on external conditions
For example:
“While expansion into new markets may increase revenue, it depends on the firm’s ability to manage supply chain complexity. In the short term, costs may reduce profitability. However, if economies of scale are achieved, long-term profit could increase significantly.”
Notice:
- It is conditional
- It weighs competing arguments
- It reaches a reasoned judgement
Avoid writing “it depends” without explanation.
Common 20 Mark Mistakes
Many students:
- Write too descriptively
- Fail to develop analysis
- Provide weak or repetitive conclusions
- Ignore context
- Run out of time
Your answer must stay focused on the specific business in the question.
If your response could apply to any company, it is too generic.
Time Management for 20 Mark Questions
You should spend approximately:
35–40 minutes on a 20-mark question (depending on the paper).
Do not sacrifice structure by rushing the conclusion.
A strong final paragraph can push an answer into the top level.
How to Practise 20 Mark Questions Properly
To improve:
- Write full answers under timed conditions
- Compare against level-based mark schemes
- Rewrite weak evaluation
- Focus on improving judgement
Repeated structured practice is the fastest way to improve.
That is why the A Level Business Edexcel 2026 A* Revision Bundle includes realistic predicted 20-mark questions with model answers and examiner commentary — so you can see what top-level responses actually look like.
You can access it here:
👉 A-Level Business Edexcel 2026 A* Bundle
Final Thoughts
In A Level Business Edexcel, the 20-mark question is where grades are won and lost.
Knowledge matters — but structure, depth and judgement matter more.
If you can consistently:
- Apply context
- Develop analysis
- Evaluate clearly
- Prioritise in your conclusion
You are writing at A* level.
Master the structure, and the marks follow.