Overview
Understanding command words is the single most important skill for turning your business knowledge into marks in the Cambridge O-Level Business Studies (7115) exam. These words are instructions from the examiner, telling you exactly how to structure your answer and the level of detail required. Mastering them means you can deliver precisely what is being asked for, especially when applying your knowledge to the case study provided.
Low-Tariff Words: Precision and Recall
For Cambridge syllabus 7115, command words like Define, State, List, and Identify are the building blocks of your exam paper. They test your recall of key terms and concepts from the syllabus. For these questions, the goal is clarity and precision, not long-winded explanations. For example, a question asking you to 'Define fixed costs' requires a textbook-perfect definition, not a paragraph about a specific business's fixed costs unless asked. Similarly, Calculate questions require you to show your workings clearly and arrive at a correct numerical answer. There are no marks for padding; get straight to the point.
Explain: Adding Depth with 'Why' and 'How'
For Cambridge syllabus 7115, the command word Explain signals a move beyond simple definitions. It asks you to make a point and then provide reasons, details, and context. You are expected to clarify *why* something is the case or *how* a particular business concept works in practice. For the 7115 paper, a generic explanation is not enough. Your answer must be applied to the business in the stimulus. For example, explaining a benefit of flow production should be linked directly to the specific company in the case study, showing how *it* would benefit from lower costs or faster production.
Analyse: Unpacking the Consequences
For Cambridge syllabus 7115, when a question asks you to Analyse, you need to break a topic down into its component parts and show the links between them. This involves examining the effects or consequences of a business decision or situation. Analysis is about chains of reasoning. For instance, analysing the introduction of a new marketing campaign would mean explaining the initial impact (e.g., increased customer awareness), then the subsequent effect (e.g., higher sales revenue), and then the potential final consequence (e.g., increased market share and profit). Each step in the chain demonstrates a deeper understanding of the business's operations.
High-Stakes Words: Evaluate, Discuss, and Assess
For Cambridge syllabus 7115, these command words are reserved for the highest-tariff questions and require the most sophisticated skills. Evaluate, Discuss, and Assess all demand a balanced, two-sided argument. You must explore both the advantages and disadvantages, or the arguments for and against a particular point. However, simply listing two sides is not enough to reach the top mark band. The crucial final step is to make a supported judgement. This is a concluding statement where you weigh up the evidence you have presented and decide which argument is more significant for the specific business in the case study, explaining *why*.
Justify: Making a Supported Recommendation
For Cambridge syllabus 7115, the command word Justify asks you to make a decision and defend it. Typically, you will be presented with several options and asked to recommend one. A strong answer will state the chosen option clearly at the start, then build a persuasive case for it using evidence from the stimulus. A key part of justification is not only explaining why your choice is good but also why it is better than the other available options. Your entire argument must be rooted in the context of the business, its resources, and its objectives as described in the case study.
Frequently asked questions
This section covers Frequently asked questions — ranked by what Cambridge examiners return to most often in past papers.
What is the difference between 'Explain' and 'Analyse'?
'Explain' is about making a point clear by providing reasons (the 'why' and 'how'). 'Analyse' goes a step further by examining the consequences and effects of that point. For example, you might explain what a cash flow forecast is, but you would analyse how a negative closing balance could impact the business's ability to pay suppliers.
How do I make sure my answer is 'applied' to the case study?
To apply your answer, you must consistently refer to the business in the stimulus. Use its name, products, location, or the specific figures and problems mentioned in the text. Instead of saying “a business might struggle,” say “Prima Pizzas will struggle because the case study states their rent is increasing.” This shows the examiner you are not just giving a generic answer. The 7115 marking criteria heavily reward this skill.
Do I always need a conclusion for an 'Evaluate' question?
Yes, a final judgement is essential. An 'Evaluate' or 'Assess' question without a supported conclusion cannot access the highest marks. This conclusion isn't just a summary; it's your final verdict. You must decide which side of the argument is more compelling for that specific business and briefly explain why, providing a definitive answer to the question.
Where can I find more general guidance on command words?
While this guide is specific to 7115 Business Studies, we have a broader overview that covers the different types of command words you'll see across various Cambridge subjects. You can read our general guide to command words explained for more background information and examples.
How can I practise using these command words effectively?
The best way to improve is through practice. Use past papers, write full answers under timed conditions, and then compare your work against the mark scheme. For expert feedback on your application of command words and overall exam technique, you can submit your work and have a Cambridge-specialist tutor mark a paper for you.