CBSE Economics- Writing Tips

Economics is challenging and fun at the same time. Here are some generic tips to maximise your marks and the examiner’s utility!

The paper is divided into two sections – microeconomics and macroeconomics

Microeconomics mostly focusses on theory; macroeconomics on numericals, such as the calculation of national income. The microeconomics section generally takes longer to answer.

It is advisable to attempt the paper in reverse order – beginning with the 6-mark questions and then moving to the 1-mark questions – so that there is sufficient time to answer the longer questions.

(Try this in practice papers before implementing it in your board exams!)

Write the entire answer, i.e., the statement given in the option while answering an MCQ and not just the option number, else no marks will be awarded.

While attempting a question, first cover all the required points and then extend the answer a little.

Terminology: 

Use appropriate economic terms (such as utility), as using general terms will cost you marks.

Graphs:

1. it is mandatory to label the axes and the origin. Be as neat as possible.

2. Questions on differentiating between two things:

3. Draw a table with three columns – basis, concept 1 and concept 2. For example, to differentiate between increase in demand and increase in quantity demanded:

4. Basis

5. Increase in demand

6. Increase in quantity demanded

7. Cause

8. Change in factors other than the price of the good, such as income and population

9. Fall in price of the good

10. Give as many points as the number of marks for the question, i.e., 4 points for a 4-mark question, and 6 for a 6-mark question.

11. Examples are not considered as a point, but ambitious students should include them.

Computation of national income and related aggregates:

1. Read carefully which aggregate is to be calculated.

2. Mention the units (arabs, crores, etc.).

3. Write the formula, so that partial marks may be awarded even if the final answer is incorrect.

4. The data given will often be from all three approaches for computation. Before solving, identify for which approach you have all the required data.

5. Tick off each given data point as you use it in your calculations.

Explaining why a particular point is a point of equilibrium:

 You should also include why any other point is not a point of equilibrium. For example, while explaining equilibrium national income, you must mention that any point to the left of the equilibrium income is not a point of equilibrium, as at that income level, there is an unplanned decrease in inventory.

Presentation:

1. Showing the examiner that you have covered the all the relevant points is important.

2. It is advisable to write your answers in bullet form and use subheadings where required (especially for 6-mark questions).

Hope this helps! Stay tuned for more!