IB Economics Command Terms Cheat Sheet

Clear IB Economics command terms guide covering AO1, AO2 and AO3 with exam writing guidance, examples and common mistakes.

Help your IB Economics students answer exactly what the examiner is asking.

This concise, classroom-ready reference sheet explains the most frequently used IB Economics command terms and shows students how each one should be answered to maximise marks.

Ideal as a desk reference, revision handout or exam preparation resource.

What is included?

2-page printable PDF
Definitions of the major IB Economics command terms
AO1, AO2 and AO3 breakdown
Model sentence starters
Assessment Objective ladder
Three common command-term mistakes students make
Quick-reference exam guide
Student-friendly layout

Topics Covered

Define
State
List
Identify
Explain
Distinguish
Calculate
Analyse
Evaluate
Discuss
Examine
To what extent
Assessment Objectives (AO1–AO3)
Exam technique

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to:

recognise the requirements of each IB Economics command term
distinguish between AO1, AO2 and AO3 responses
structure answers more effectively
avoid common exam mistakes
improve examination technique and written responses
Classroom Uses

Perfect for:

Exam preparation
Revision lessons
Classroom displays
Student folders
Homework support
Independent study
Writing workshops

Cover lessons

Why teachers will love this resource
Saves valuable planning time
Ready to print and use immediately
Supports consistent exam technique across the course
Easy for students to reference during revision
Complements any IB Economics textbook or scheme of work
Helps improve extended-response quality

A practical resource that students will continue using throughout the IB Economics course.