IB Business Management Paper 2 uses unseen case study material and tests your ability to apply business concepts, analyse data, and make strategic recommendations.
Paper 2 format overview
- SL: Section A (30 marks), Section B (20 marks). 1 hour 15 minutes.
- HL: Section A (20 marks), Section B (20 marks), Section C (20 marks). 2 hours 15 minutes.
Both levels use unseen case study material. You must read and analyse the material quickly to answer effectively.
Reading the case study
Spend the first 5-10 minutes reading the case study carefully:
- Underline key facts: company size, revenue, challenges
- Identify the main business problem or opportunity
- Note any financial data, ratios, or percentages provided
- Think about which business tools apply (SWOT, ratio analysis, stakeholder mapping)
Structuring answers
Match your depth to the marks:
Practise your Paper 2 responses and get detailed marking feedback that shows where you gained or lost marks.
- 2-4 marks: Define and briefly explain with case study reference
- 6-8 marks: Analyse using business tools with specific examples from the case
- 10+ marks: Full evaluation with balanced arguments and a justified recommendation
Common mistakes
- Not using the case study: Every answer should reference specific details from the material
- Listing without explanation: Don't just name business tools — apply them
- Running out of time: Budget time strictly and move on if stuck
Practice answering IB Business Management questions and receive feedback.
Practice BM questions →For more exam strategies, see our guides on BM Paper 1 Strategy and How to Structure a 10-Mark Answer.
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