I see this every year.
Students know the content.
They revise the studies.
They memorise definitions.
But their 16 markers stay stuck at 10–12 marks.
If that’s you, this is probably why.
(And if you want realistic 16-mark practice questions with full mark schemes, I’ve put together some predicted papers for 2026 here - they’re designed specifically to help with this exact issue: A-Level Psychology AQA Predicted Papers for 2026. Completely optional, just if you need structured practice.)
Now let’s talk about what’s actually holding you back.
You’re Writing Too Much AO1
Be honest.
Are you spending most of your essay explaining the theory?
On a 16 marker (AQA), AO3 carries more weight than AO1.
If your description is longer than your evaluation, you’re limiting your grade.
You don’t need to re-teach the topic.
You need to analyse it.
Your Evaluation Is Too Generic
“This study lacks ecological validity.”
That’s not enough.
You need to explain why it matters.
For example:
“Low ecological validity reduces the extent to which findings can be generalised to real-world behaviour, limiting practical application.”
That second sentence is where marks are gained.
You’re Listing Points Instead of Developing Them
A lot of essays look like this:
Strength.
Weakness.
Another weakness.
That’s mid-band writing.
Take fewer points and develop them fully.
Explain consequences.
Explain implications.
Explain impact.
Depth beats quantity every time.
You’re Not Making Judgements
Top essays feel confident.
They don’t just list strengths and weaknesses.
They weigh them.
For example:
“Although the sample was small, the study gained detailed qualitative data which may improve internal validity. However, this limits generalisability, reducing the ability to apply findings to wider populations.”
That’s balanced. That’s evaluative.
You’re Not Practising Under Time Pressure
Most students can write a decent essay without a timer.
In the exam, structure collapses.
The fix?
Practise full 16 markers under timed conditions.
Repeatedly.
That’s why predicted papers actually help — not because they ‘guess questions’, but because they force realistic structure practice.
If I Wanted an A or A*
I would:
– Keep AO1 concise
– Prepare strong evaluation paragraphs
– Practise timed essays weekly
– Compare against level descriptors
– Rewrite weak conclusions
Psychology isn’t about writing more.
It’s about writing sharper.