Paper 2: the IB Economics data-response paper explained

Format, timing and weighting

Paper 2 is the data-response paper, sat by both SL and HL, lasting 1 hour 45 minutes with 5 minutes of reading time. You are given two questions, each built on a stimulus: a text extract plus data such as a table or chart. You answer only ONE.

Paper 2 counts for 40% of the SL grade and 30% of the HL grade, making it the largest single component at SL.

The question ladder

Every Paper 2 question climbs the same ladder. Part (a) has two 'define' questions worth 2 marks each. Part (b) and part (c) are worth 4 marks each and ask you either to draw a diagram and explain, or to calculate a value from the data. Part (d) is the 15-mark evaluation.

Definitions: give a precise one-sentence definition, and an example can secure the second mark. Diagram parts: draw, label, and explain with reference to the stimulus. Calculations: show the formula, the substitution and the units.

The marks rise as you climb the ladder, so pace yourself: the 15-mark part (d) deserves the bulk of your time.

Reading the text and data efficiently

Spend the reading time mapping the extract, not reading word by word. Underline the key policy or event, the country, and any numbers.

Glance at part (d) first so you know what the big question is, then read the text hunting for evidence you can quote for it.

Data tables usually hide the calculation the paper wants, such as a percentage change, an elasticity or a real value, so check what arithmetic the numbers invite.

The 15-mark evaluation technique

Part (d) is marked on level descriptors and needs the same ingredients as Paper 1 part (b): define terms, an optional diagram, two or three developed points applied to the case, and real evaluation with a conclusion.

The difference is that you MUST use the stimulus. Quote figures and refer to the text by paragraph. An answer that ignores the extract cannot reach the top band even if the economics is sound.

Evaluate with a CLASPP-style toolkit: short-run versus long-run, stakeholders, assumptions, and a justified conclusion tied to the specific country or policy in the extract.

Using the stimulus (examiners require it)

The mark scheme for part (d) explicitly rewards reference to the text and data. Weave at least two or three specific references into your answer: a quoted figure, a named stakeholder from the extract, a paragraph reference.

Generic textbook essays that could have been written without the stimulus are the most common reason strong students miss the top band on Paper 2. Make it obvious you are analysing this case, not any case.

Timing strategy for 1h45

With about 100 minutes of writing time, protect part (d). A rough plan: 5 to 6 minutes on the definitions and any calculations, 15 to 20 minutes on the two 4-mark parts, and 45 to 50 minutes on the 15-mark evaluation, leaving time to check.

Do the low-mark parts quickly and accurately. Do not write a paragraph for a 2-mark definition.

Common Paper mistakes

Writing too much for the 2 and 4-mark parts and running out of time for part (d).

Calculations with no working or no units: show the formula, the substitution and the unit.

A part (d) essay with no references to the extract: it is capped below the top band however strong the theory.

Defining the wrong term, or giving an example instead of a definition.

Drawing a diagram but never explaining or referring to it.

How this is examined

• Part (d) is worth 15 marks and MUST use the stimulus; quote at least two figures or paragraph references or you are capped below the top band however good the theory.
• Read part (d) before you read the extract so you know what evidence to hunt for as you read.
• For every calculation show the formula, the numbers substituted in, and the units; a bare answer risks losing method marks.
• Do not over-write the 2 and 4-mark parts; budget roughly half your writing time for part (d).

Key terms

price elasticity of demandconsumer surplussubsidymarket failureaggregate demand