IB Economics Paper 1 is the extended-response paper. At both SL and HL, it tests your ability to write structured economic arguments with definitions, diagrams, and evaluation.
A clear strategy ensures you cover all the marking criteria and manage your time effectively.
Paper 1 format overview
Paper 1 presents questions grouped by syllabus section. Each question has two parts:
- Part (a) — 10 marks: Explain an economic concept using definitions, theory, and diagrams
- Part (b) — 15 marks: Evaluate, discuss, or assess a policy or issue using real-world examples and evaluation
SL students answer one question (25 marks, 1 hour 15 minutes). HL students answer two questions (50 marks, 2 hours 15 minutes).
Time management
- Part (a): ~25 minutes — define, explain, diagram
- Part (b): ~40 minutes — evaluate with structure
- Review: 5-10 minutes
Sharpen your Paper 1 technique by practising with past paper questions and getting AI-powered marking feedback.
Essay structure
For Part (a):
- Define key terms
- Explain the economic theory clearly
- Draw and explain a relevant diagram
- Give a real-world example if possible
For Part (b), see our guide on structuring 15-mark Economics essays.
Common mistakes
- Choosing a question based on Part (a) alone — check Part (b) first
- Writing Part (a) as a full essay — keep it focused on explanation
- Skipping diagrams in Part (a) — they are usually expected
- No evaluation in Part (b) — evaluation is required for top marks
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