Syllabus & Exam Guide
Cambridge International AS & A Level Economics (9708) · assessment model, command words & unit-by-unit chapter map · for students and teachers
This page is a one-stop reference for how the 9708 qualification is examined, and how this site’s 53 chapters map onto the official syllabus units. Students: use it to track revision and jump straight to each chapter’s past-paper practice. Teachers: the unit map doubles as a ready-made scheme of work (this page prints cleanly).
Unofficial study aid. Paper details checked against the Cambridge 2023–2025 and 2026–2028 syllabuses — always confirm against the official syllabus for your examination year at cambridgeinternational.org.
Exam structure — the 9708 assessment model
AS Level candidates sit Paper 1 and Paper 2. A Level candidates also sit Paper 3 and Paper 4 — either all four papers in one series, or AS first and the A Level papers in a later series. The AS papers draw on units 1–6; the A Level papers draw on units 7–11, with AS content assumed knowledge.
Paper 1 — Multiple Choice
1 hour · 30 questions · 30 marks
Four-option multiple choice on AS units 1–6; each correct answer scores one mark.
Weighting: 33% of AS Level · 17% of A LevelBuild a mock Paper 1 in MCQ practice →
Paper 2 — Data Response and Essays
2 hours · 60 marks · three sections
- Section A: one compulsory data response question (20 marks)
- Section B: one two-part essay from a choice of two, mainly microeconomics (20 marks)
- Section C: one two-part essay from a choice of two, mainly macroeconomics (20 marks)
Draws on AS units 1–6.
Weighting: 67% of AS Level · 33% of A LevelBrowse past Paper 2 essays →Browse past Paper 2 data response →
Paper 3 — Multiple Choice
1 hour 15 minutes · 30 questions · 30 marks
Four-option multiple choice on A Level units 7–11; AS content is assumed knowledge but is not the direct focus of the questions.
Weighting: 17% of A LevelBuild a mock Paper 3 in MCQ practice →
Paper 4 — Data Response and Essays
2 hours · 60 marks · three sections
- Section A: one compulsory data response question (20 marks)
- Section B: one unstructured essay from a choice of two, mainly microeconomics (20 marks)
- Section C: one unstructured essay from a choice of two, mainly macroeconomics (20 marks)
Draws on A Level units 7–11 (AS content assumed).
Weighting: 33% of A LevelBrowse past Paper 4 essays →Browse past Paper 4 data response →
The two AS papers total 90 marks; the two A Level papers add another 90. The AS papers carry 50% of the full A Level.
Assessment objectives (AOs)
Every mark on every paper is tagged to one of three assessment objectives. Across the qualification the approximate weightings are AO1 ≈ 35%, AO2 ≈ 40%, AO3 ≈ 25%. The multiple-choice papers lean towards knowledge and analysis, while the data response and essay questions carry most of the evaluation marks.
Knowledge and understanding
Show knowledge and understanding of economic concepts, theories, definitions and diagrams, and apply them to written, numerical and diagrammatic information.
In an answer this looks like: accurate definitions, correctly drawn and labelled diagrams, the right formula chosen.
Analysis
Examine economic issues and relationships — select, interpret and organise information, and explain causes, effects and consequences step by step.
In an answer this looks like: a logical chain of reasoning (‘lower interest rates → cheaper borrowing → higher investment → AD shifts right’).
Evaluation
Make reasoned judgements: weigh up evidence and arguments, recognise the assumptions and limitations of economic models, and reach a supported conclusion.
In an answer this looks like: ‘it depends on…’, saying which argument is strongest, and a conclusion that actually answers the question.
Command words
Cambridge defines exactly what each command word requires. The command word itself is always in English on the paper — learn what each one demands and match the depth of your answer to it: don’t write an essay for a state question, and don’t merely describe in an evaluate question.
| Command word | What it demands | AO | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Define | Give the precise meaning of a term. | AO1 | Learn key-term definitions word-perfect — one accurate sentence scores quickly. |
| State | Express a point in clear, brief terms. | AO1 | No explanation needed — short and exact wins the mark. |
| Identify | Name, select or recognise a point, often from source material. | AO1 | Point to the exact factor or figure in the data — no development required. |
| Give | Produce an answer from a given source or from recall. | AO1 | A word or short phrase is enough — don't burn time here. |
| Outline | Set out the main points briefly. | AO1 | Main points only — save the detail for 'explain' questions. |
| Describe | State the points of a topic; give its characteristics and main features. | AO1 | Say what happens, not why it happens. |
| Calculate | Work out from the facts, figures or information given. | AO1/AO2 | Show your working and include units (%, $, index points). |
| Explain | Set out purposes or reasons; make relationships between things clear; say why and/or how, with support. | AO1+AO2 | Use linking words — 'because… so… therefore…' — and add a diagram where it helps. |
| Analyse | Examine in detail to show meaning; identify the elements and the relationships between them. | AO2 | Build step-by-step chains of reasoning from cause through mechanism to final effect. |
| Compare | Identify and comment on similarities and/or differences. | AO2 | Compare explicitly ('whereas…', 'both…') — two separate descriptions score poorly. |
| Consider | Review and respond to the given information. | AO2/AO3 | Engage directly with the stimulus material, then weigh it up. |
| Justify | Support a case with evidence or argument. | AO3 | Take a clear position and defend it with economic reasoning. |
| Assess | Make an informed judgement. | AO3 | Weigh both sides, then commit to a supported judgement. |
| Discuss | Write about the issue(s) or topic(s) in depth, in a structured way. | AO3 | Arguments for and against, then a reasoned conclusion — never sit on the fence. |
| Evaluate | Judge the quality, importance, amount or value of something. | AO3 | Finish with a criteria-based judgement: 'it depends on…' (elasticities, time period, size of the change). |
Consider, Justify, Assess, Discuss and Evaluate signal that evaluation (AO3) marks are available — your answer must contain a supported judgement.
Unit → chapter map
One chapter per syllabus subsection, in syllabus order. Teachers: this is a ready-made scheme of work — teach straight down the table. Students: use it as a revision tracker, and use each row’s practice link to drill that chapter’s past-paper MCQs.
Unit 1 — Basic economic ideas and resource allocation
6 chapters · 303 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.1 | AS Ch 01 · Scarcity, Choice and Opportunity Cost | 28 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 1.2 | AS Ch 02 · Economic Methodology | 45 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 1.3 | AS Ch 03 · Factors of Production | 39 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 1.4 | AS Ch 04 · Resource Allocation in Different Economic Systems | 46 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 1.5 | AS Ch 05 · Production Possibility Curves | 82 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 1.6 | AS Ch 06 · Classification of Goods and Services | 63 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
Unit 2 — The price system and the microeconomy
5 chapters · 589 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.1 | AS Ch 07 · Demand and Supply Curves | 127 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 2.2 | AS Ch 08 · Price Elasticity, Income Elasticity, and Cross Elasticity of Demand | 117 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 2.3 | AS Ch 09 · Price Elasticity of Supply | 92 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 2.4 | AS Ch 10 · The Interaction of Demand and Supply | 178 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 2.5 | AS Ch 11 · Consumer and Producer Surplus | 75 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
Unit 3 — Government microeconomic intervention
3 chapters · 274 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.1 | AS Ch 12 · Reasons for Government Intervention in Markets | 16 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 3.2 | AS Ch 13 · Methods and Effects of Government Intervention in Markets | 196 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 3.3 | AS Ch 14 · Addressing Income and Wealth Inequality | 62 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
Unit 4 — The macroeconomy (AS)
6 chapters · 380 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.1 | AS Ch 15 · National Income Statistics | 40 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 4.2 | AS Ch 16 · Introduction to the Circular Flow of Income | 32 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 4.3 | AS Ch 17 · Aggregate Demand and Aggregate Supply Analysis | 112 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 4.4 | AS Ch 18 · Economic Growth | 39 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 4.5 | AS Ch 19 · Unemployment | 55 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 4.6 | AS Ch 20 · Price Stability | 102 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
Unit 5 — Government macroeconomic intervention (AS)
4 chapters · 232 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.1 | AS Ch 21 · Government Macroeconomic Policy Objectives | 3 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 5.2 | AS Ch 22 · Fiscal Policy | 104 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 5.3 | AS Ch 23 · Monetary Policy | 65 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 5.4 | AS Ch 24 · Supply-side Policy | 60 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
Unit 6 — International economic issues (AS)
5 chapters · 401 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6.1 | AS Ch 25 · The Reasons for International Trade | 134 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 6.2 | AS Ch 26 · Protectionism | 79 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 6.3 | AS Ch 27 · Current Account of the Balance of Payments | 86 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 6.4 | AS Ch 28 · Exchange Rates | 75 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 6.5 | AS Ch 29 · Policies to Correct Imbalances in the Current Account of the Balance of Payments | 27 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
Unit 7 — The price system and the microeconomy (A Level)
5 chapters · 476 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.1 | A2 Ch 30 · Utility | 52 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 7.2 | A2 Ch 31 · Indifference Curves and Budget Lines | 88 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 7.3 | A2 Ch 32 · Efficiency and Market Failure | 61 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 7.4 | A2 Ch 33 · Private Costs and Benefits, Externalities, and Social Costs and Benefits | 130 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 7.5 | A2 Ch 34 · Types of Cost, Revenue and Profit, Short-Run and Long-Run Production | 145 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
Unit 8 — Government microeconomic intervention (A Level)
6 chapters · 654 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.1 | A2 Ch 35 · Different Market Structures | 131 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 8.2 | A2 Ch 36 · Growth and Survival of Firms | 85 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 8.3 | A2 Ch 37 · Differing Objectives and Policies of Firms | 87 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 8.4 | A2 Ch 38 · Government Policies to Achieve Efficient Resource Allocation and Correct Market Failure | 144 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 8.5 | A2 Ch 39 · Equity and Redistribution of Income and Wealth | 58 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 8.6 | A2 Ch 40 · Labour Market Forces and Government Intervention | 149 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
Unit 9 — The macroeconomy (A Level)
4 chapters · 396 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9.1 | A2 Ch 41 · The Circular Flow of Income | 122 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 9.2 | A2 Ch 42 · Economic Growth and Sustainability | 63 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 9.3 | A2 Ch 43 · Employment and Unemployment | 76 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 9.4 | A2 Ch 44 · Money and Banking | 135 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
Unit 10 — Government macroeconomic intervention (A Level)
3 chapters · 145 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10.1 | A2 Ch 45 · Government Macroeconomic Policy Objectives | 14 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 10.2 | A2 Ch 46 · Links Between Macroeconomic Problems and Their Interrelatedness | 36 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 10.3 | A2 Ch 47 · Effectiveness of Policy Options to Meet All Macroeconomic Objectives | 95 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
Unit 11 — International economic issues (A Level)
6 chapters · 373 MCQs| Syllabus | Chapter | Past-paper MCQs | Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11.1 | A2 Ch 48 · Policies to Correct Disequilibrium in the Balance of Payments | 61 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 11.2 | A2 Ch 49 · Exchange Rates | 84 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 11.3 | A2 Ch 50 · Economic Development | 103 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 11.4 | A2 Ch 51 · Characteristics of Countries at Different Levels of Development | 55 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 11.5 | A2 Ch 52 · Relationship Between Countries at Different Levels of Development | 42 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
| 11.6 | A2 Ch 53 · Globalisation | 28 MCQs | Practice MCQs → |
How to use this site
🎓 For students — a revision loop that works
- Read the chapter for your current syllabus point and answer its built-in practice questions.
- Lock in the vocabulary with key-term flashcards — definition marks are the easiest marks on the paper.
- Drill that chapter’s past-paper MCQs via the practice links above (MCQ practice) — wrong answers reshuffle back into the deck.
- Closer to the exam, run mixed timed quizzes or a full Paper 1 / Paper 3-style mock in MCQ practice.
- Practise essays from the essay bank, organised by the same syllabus points — plan first, then write to time.
- Close the gaps: look up weak terms in the glossary, find the explanation with search, and redraw diagrams from memory with the diagram bank.
🧑🏫 For teachers — using this site in class
- The unit map above is a ready-made scheme of work: one chapter per syllabus subsection, in teaching order.
- Project chapters in class — the diagrams are clear at distance and theme-aware (try dark mode on a projector).
- Print diagram revision sheets from the macro and micro diagram sheets as handouts.
- Set mock papers with the mock mode in MCQ practice: Paper 1 / Paper 3 style, 30 questions (15 micro + 15 macro) with a countdown and end-of-exam review.
- Generate printable worksheets with the worksheet builder: pick chapters, print with an answer key, or share the link so the class answers online.
- Set calculation warm-ups with the quantitative skills trainer: randomised elasticity, multiplier, index-number and exchange-rate drills with worked solutions.
- Set essays by syllabus point from the essay bank — 371 past-paper questions (226 Paper 2 · 145 Paper 4) with filters.
- Print this page: the unit map prints as a clean scheme-of-work table you can file or hand out.
Revision & exam-technique tips
Seven habits of top answers
- Draw diagrams big and label everything — axes, curves, equilibrium points and shift arrows. An accurate diagram plus one sentence of explanation is the fastest analysis mark in the paper.
- Define the question’s key terms in your introduction — quick AO1 marks, and proof you understood the question.
- Allocate time by marks: Papers 2 and 4 are 60 marks in 120 minutes — about 2 minutes per mark, so a 20-mark essay deserves about 40 minutes.
- Evaluate with ‘it depends on…’ — elasticity values, the time period, the size of the change, the state of the economy — then commit to a conclusion.
- Write chains, not lists: every analytical point should run cause → mechanism → effect (‘tariff raises import prices → import volumes fall → domestic output rises’).
- Use the data: in data response questions quote the figures, calculate changes and refer to the source — answers that ignore the data cap their marks.
- Never leave an MCQ blank — there is no penalty for a wrong answer. Eliminate two options, then choose between the rest.
Paper timings, marks and section structures checked against the Cambridge 9708 syllabuses for 2023–2025 and 2026–2028. This site is an unofficial revision resource and is not affiliated with Cambridge Assessment International Education.
Frequently asked questions
How many papers are in Cambridge 9708 Economics?
Four. AS Level candidates sit Paper 1 (multiple choice) and Paper 2 (data response and essays). A Level candidates also sit Paper 3 (multiple choice) and Paper 4 (data response and essays).
What is the difference between Paper 1 and Paper 3?
Paper 1 is the AS multiple-choice paper (1 hour, 30 questions) on units 1–6. Paper 3 is the A Level multiple-choice paper (1 hour 15 minutes, 30 questions) on units 7–11, with AS content assumed.
Which units are AS and which are A Level?
AS Level covers units 1–6 (chapters 1–29). A Level adds units 7–11 (chapters 30–53), which assume the AS content.
How is Cambridge 9708 Economics assessed?
Across the qualification the assessment objectives are weighted approximately AO1 35% (knowledge), AO2 40% (analysis) and AO3 25% (evaluation). The AS papers carry 50% of the full A Level.
Is this site the official Cambridge 9708 syllabus?
No. This is a free, unofficial revision resource for Cambridge 9708 Economics and is not affiliated with Cambridge Assessment International Education. Paper timings and structures are checked against the 2023–2025 and 2026–2028 syllabuses.