The Ultimate Guide to JC Economics Case Study Questions (How to Score in Paper 2)

Every A-Level Economics student knows Paper 2 — the Case Study Paper — can make or break their final grade. It tests how well you can apply theory to real-world data under tight time pressure.

At JC Economics Education Centre, taught by Dr Anthony Fok, students learn proven frameworks that simplify data analysis and maximise marks. This guide reveals the insider strategies you need to excel in Case Study Questions (CSQs).

1. Understand the Purpose of Paper 2

Paper 2 is designed to assess:

Application of theory to current issues

Data interpretation and diagram analysis

Judgement and evaluation

Each case study presents extracts — graphs, tables, news articles — followed by structured and essay-style questions. Examiners reward students who connect data with economic reasoning, not those who quote figures blindly.

2. Know the Question Types

(a) Data Analysis Questions (2 – 4 marks)
Test your ability to read and interpret charts.
Tip: Quote numbers and explain trends using proper terms like “rises by 5% between 2018 and 2020”.

(b) Short Structured Questions (4 – 6 marks)
Apply one concept to the extract — elasticity, market failure, or fiscal policy.

(c) Essay-Style Evaluation Questions (8 – 10 marks)
Assess policies and their effectiveness — where critical thinking is key.

Dr Anthony Fok trains students to recognise command words such as Explain, Discuss, and Assess, so they instantly know how much analysis is expected.

3. Step-by-Step Answering Framework
Step 1: Read the Extract Carefully

Skim once for general context, then underline key data and policy terms. Identify what the case is really about — inflation, unemployment, or trade policy?

Step 2: Plan Your Flow

Spend 2 – 3 minutes outlining key ideas. A quick structure prevents scattered answers.

Step 3: Use Economic Frameworks

Apply relevant models:

AD–AS diagram for macro policy

Market failure diagram for externalities

Comparative advantage for trade

Step 4: Support with Data

Quote figures directly:

“According to Extract A, exports rose by 12 per cent, indicating strong external demand.”

Step 5: Evaluate

Every 8–10-mark question demands evaluation. Weigh policy effectiveness, time frame, and context — a skill deeply emphasised at JC Economics Education Centre.

4. Time Management Matters

You have 1 hour 30 minutes for two case studies — roughly 45 minutes each.

Segment Recommended Time
Reading & Planning 5 min
Short Questions 20 min
Essay Question 20 min

Practising under timed drills is standard in Dr Fok’s classes. Students learn to write quickly without sacrificing accuracy.

5. How to Analyse Data Like an Examiner

Always mention both the trend and its economic implication.
“Unemployment fell by 1% → indicating labour-market recovery.”

Compare years, countries, or sectors if data allows.

Link numerical findings to policy effectiveness.

Avoid “data dumping” — listing numbers without analysis earns few marks.

6. Incorporate Singapore Context

Paper 2 usually features ASEAN or global issues but expects local application.
Use examples such as MAS exchange-rate policy, SkillsFuture programmes, or carbon tax initiatives.

Example:
“While fiscal expansion raises demand, Singapore’s open economy faces leakages via imports, limiting the multiplier effect.”

Students under Dr Anthony Fok practise rewriting global questions with a Singaporean lens — a proven way to earn context marks.

7. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Ignoring command words → wrong depth of answer.

Copying data verbatim → no analysis credit.

Forgetting diagrams → lose clarity marks.

Weak evaluation → cap at Level 2 band.

Poor time management → unattempted questions.

Regular feedback and mock papers at JC Economics Education Centre help students eliminate these habits before the exam.

8. Sample Case Study Question

“Using Extracts A and B, discuss the effectiveness of exchange-rate policy in controlling inflation in Singapore.”

Suggested Approach:

Identify goal: price stability.

Explain how MAS uses exchange-rate band appreciation to limit imported inflation.

Support with data from extract.

Evaluate trade-offs: impact on exports and growth.

Conclude with judgement on short- vs long-term effectiveness.

This step-by-step method is taught in Dr Fok’s weekly practice sessions, where students apply frameworks to real past-year questions.

9. Develop the Exam Mindset

Treat each case study as a story. Ask yourself:

Who are the economic agents involved?

What problem are they facing?

Which policy addresses it best?

What are the side effects?

Thinking in narratives helps you write coherently and score evaluation marks naturally.

10. Final Thoughts

Mastering JC Economics Case Study Questions requires both technique and practice. Once you learn to decode data, link theory, and evaluate critically, Paper 2 becomes your strongest paper — not your weakest.

At JC Economics Education Centre, Dr Anthony Fok equips students with structured approaches, real-world examples, and personalised feedback that consistently produce A-grade results.

👉 Join a free trial lesson today and discover how Dr Fok’s step-by-step method simplifies even the toughest Case Study questions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1 – How many case studies are in Paper 2?
Two case studies of 40 marks each; you must attempt both.

Q2 – What is the best way to improve in Paper 2?
Practise under timed conditions and review with a qualified tutor to identify gaps in data interpretation and evaluation.

Q3 – Are real-world examples important in Paper 2?
Yes — they show application and boost evaluation marks. Singapore-based examples score especially well.