Paper 1 is the first exam Edexcel A-Level Business students will face in 2026. It sets the tone for the rest of the exam series and often feels like the biggest hurdle. So, what can students expect when they open that paper? Let’s break down the structure, the content, and the best ways to prepare.
Format of Paper 1
Paper 1 is:
- 2 hours long
- 100 marks total
- Based on case studies, with a series of short-answer, data-response, and extended essay-style questions
Unlike Paper 2 (which focuses on specific themes) or Paper 3 (which is synoptic and context-driven), Paper 1 draws on all four themes of the Edexcel Business specification. That means:
- Theme 1: Marketing and People
- Theme 2: Managing Business Activities
- Theme 3: Business Decisions and Strategy
- Theme 4: Global Business
This broad scope makes Paper 1 both challenging and unpredictable.
Types of Questions You’ll See
Paper 1 will usually contain a variety of marks and styles:
- 4-mark questions — short knowledge/application checks
- 8-mark questions — mini essays, requiring analysis and a short evaluation
- 10-mark questions — focused analysis with case study application
- 12-mark questions — extended evaluation of a specific issue
- 20-mark questions — essay-style, requiring structured argument and strong evaluation
Each section contains all of these question types, testing different assessment objectives (AO1–AO4).
Here's some useful youtube videos to help you answer some of these questions:
👉 How to Answer 4 Mark Questions in A-Level Business Edexcel
👉 How to Answer 20 Mark Questions in A-Level Business Edexcel
What Makes Paper 1 Tricky?
1. Breadth of Content
Any theme can appear, which means students must revise everything, not just one area.
2. Time Pressure
Multiple case studies, multiple questions, and 100 marks in 120 minutes requires strong time management.
3. Data-Driven Case Studies
The extracts often include graphs, tables, and financial information. Students must quickly interpret data and apply it.
4. Evaluation Balance
Strong AO3 (evaluation) is required across longer questions - weighing up both sides of an argument before concluding.
How to Prepare for Paper 1
1. Revise All Four Themes
Paper 1 can draw on any part of the course. A balanced revision schedule is essential.
2. Practise Case Study Application
Don’t just memorise theory - practise applying it to unfamiliar contexts. Edexcel often uses surprising industries or businesses.
3. Use Timed Practice Papers
Simulate exam conditions with past and predicted papers. Time management is crucial in Paper 1.
4. Focus on Evaluation Skills
Practise writing balanced arguments and justified conclusions. Examiners reward evaluation that is clear, realistic, and relevant to the case.
Predicted Papers for 2026
While past papers are useful, they only reflect previous trends. Predicted papers give students a chance to:
- Experience unseen questions tailored to the 2026 exam series
- Practise the exact Paper 1 format
- Build exam confidence with full mark schemes
👉 Edexcel Business Paper 1 Predicted Paper 2026
FAQs
Q: How many questions are on Paper 1?
A: Two sections, each with a mixture of short-answer and essay-style questions, totalling 10 per paper.
Q: Is Paper 1 the hardest exam?
A: Many students find it tough because of the breadth of content, but it’s manageable with strong revision and exam technique.
Q: How can I score well on the 20-mark questions?
A: Build clear arguments, apply to the case study, and include balanced evaluation. Use this video to your advantage:
👉 How to Answer 20 Mark Questions in A-Level Business Edexcel
Q: What percentage of the final grade is Paper 1 worth?
A: Each paper (1, 2, and 3) counts equally — one-third of the total A-Level.
Final Thoughts
Paper 1 of the Edexcel A-Level Business exam in 2026 will test students across all four themes with case studies and a wide variety of question types. Success requires:
- Broad revision coverage
- Strong data-application skills
- Balanced evaluation
- Timed practice under exam conditions
By combining past papers, case study practice, and predicted papers, students can enter Paper 1 with confidence.