What are the thinking skills that students have to use in an Economics examination? Economics is a subject where you don’t just start writing the definitions and theories. There is a thought process that the students have to go through for every question. They can develop these skills by first clearing their concepts and then practising on sample papers with their tutors’/teachers’ assistance. 

This article will go into the details of the thinking skills that students need to use in their A-level Economics examination.

Importance of Thinking Skills 

In JC, examiners have made the importance of clearing concepts it known to the students. Merely memorising the whole course outline by heart, and not having good ideas and opinions would be detrimental in the long run. So, the question is, why are the concepts so important?

 The answer lies in the fact that all the economics exam questions are situation-based; they don’t just require the knowledge, but also need a complete and thorough thought process. This thought process can include analysis and evaluation. If you aren’t successful in using your thinking skills, you will lose a lot of marks.

List of Thinking Skills

Here are the necessary thinking skills that you need to have:

Knowledge 

Knowledge is the most crucial factor in any subject. In economics, students need to have the knowledge about economic theories and concepts. Moreover, they need to know the latest updates on Singapore’s economy. Internationally, knowledge of Singapore’s trading partners is also essential. Knowledge about other international forums, such as the world bank, is helpful too. 

Comprehension 

Comprehension skills are vital when it comes to A-level Economics. The student needs to apply the economic theories to the questions asked by the examiner. Moreover, they should aim to give relevant answers.

Analysis 

This skill requires the ability to break down information and apply them to answer the questions. Students will need to reorganise the data according to the question’s requirement. Moreover, it is important to be able to distinguish between fact, opinion, judgment, and hypothetical statements.

Applying theories 

This means applying economic approaches to the questions. As many questions are situation-based, merely writing definitions won’t be enough. The students should have the ability to express themselves through application.

Evaluation 

This skill requires a lot of practice. Evaluation also means to question the assumptions that are present. Moreover, it means having the skills to detect errors in any argument, and to compare the pros and cons of a standpoint.

How to master these skills?

The answer lies in practising as many the sample papers as you can. Students should also work smart. One of the best ways to ace your economics exam is by registering yourself with the Best Economics Tuition in town.

JCEconomics by Anthony Fok ensures that students get individual attention and guidance. In addition to that, they offer crash courses where students get feedback and learn ways to improve themselves.