Edexcel A-Level Economics B
Explore your course, one topic at a time.
Course overview
The PEARSON-EDEXCEL A-Level Economics B specification covers 88 topics with 996 learning objectives (9EB0). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
- 88 topics
- 290 study pages
- 996 learning objectives
Verified courseQuestions and notes checked against the official specification.
- 873
- verified practice questions
- 332
- verified teaching notes
- 88
- topics
Your exams
- Paper 1: Markets and how they workMonday, 10 May 2027, AM
- Paper 2: Competing in the global economyMonday, 17 May 2027, PM
- Paper 3: The economic environment and businessMonday, 7 June 2027, AM
Always confirm dates and times with your exam centre.
| Paper | Time | Marks | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1: Markets and how they work | 120 min | 100 | 35% |
| Paper 2: Competing in the global economy | 120 min | 100 | 35% |
| Paper 3: The economic environment and business | 120 min | 100 | 30% |
Explore your topics
88 topics
Markets and how they work23 topics
- The economic problem3 specification points covering a) The problem of scarcity (where there are unlimited wants and finite resources), b) Choices and potential trade-offs, c)…9 objectives · 3 study pages
- Business objectives2 specification points covering a) Different business objectives and reasons for them: o profit maximisation o sales maximisation o satisficing, b) Other…6 objectives · 2 study pages
- Stakeholders (economic agents) and their objectives4 specification points covering a) Stakeholders (economic agents), b) Stakeholder objectives, c) Stakeholder conflicts and related ideas.12 objectives · 4 study pages
- Role of an entrepreneur in the economy3 specification points covering a) Creative destruction (organising factors of production to create and set up an enterprise), b) Making decisions to…9 objectives · 3 study pages
- Entrepreneurial motives2 specification points covering a) Profit as an incentive, b) Non-financial motives: ethical stance, social entrepreneurship, independence, home working.6 objectives · 2 study pages
- Factors of production2 specification points covering a) Enterprise, b) Capital, land and labour: o premises o equipment o raw materials o managers and employees.6 objectives · 2 study pages
- Specialisation2 specification points covering a) Division of labour: advantages and disadvantages to employers and employees, b) Specialisation: advantages and…6 objectives · 2 study pages
- The wider economic environmentFirms operate in a dynamic macroeconomic environment where changes impact costs and revenues.3 objectives · 1 study page
- Demand4 specification points covering a) Consumer objectives and decisions, b) The demand curve, c) The distinction between movements along a demand curve and…12 objectives · 4 study pages
- Supply4 specification points covering a) Producer objectives and decisions, b) The supply curve, c) The distinction between movements along a supply curve and…12 objectives · 4 study pages
- Price determination5 specification points covering a) Equilibrium price and quantity and how they are determined, b) The use of supply and demand diagrams to depict excess…15 objectives · 5 study pages
- Price mechanism4 specification points covering a) Functions of the price mechanism to allocate resources: rationing, incentives, signalling, b) How firms respond to a…12 objectives · 4 study pages
12 of 23 shown
Competing in the global economy24 topics
- Growth3 specification points covering a) Objectives of growth: o to achieve economies of scale (internal and external) o increased market power over consumers and…9 objectives · 3 study pages
- Methods of growth2 specification points covering a) Organic and inorganic growth, b) Horizontal, vertical and conglomerate integration.6 objectives · 2 study pages
- Research and development (R&D) and innovation5 specification points covering a) Competitive advantage through innovation, b) Incentive to increase market power, c) Product and process innovation and…15 objectives · 5 study pages
- How the digital economy affects markets and firms4 specification points covering a) Market information in the digital economy: o price comparison sites o viral marketing o social media, b) The supply-side:…12 objectives · 4 study pages
- How small firms competeSmall firms survive in highly competitive markets by avoiding direct price competition with larger rivals.3 objectives · 1 study page
- Price elasticity of demand (PED)5 specification points covering a) The significance of price elasticity of demand to firms (in both niche and mass markets) in terms of implications for…15 objectives · 5 study pages
- Competing on price3 specification points covering a) Pricing strategies: o cost plus (calculating mark up on unit cost) o price skimming o penetration o predatory o…9 objectives · 3 study pages
- Types of non-price competition2 specification points covering a) The impact of marketing on the demand curve: o product differentiation o advertising and other promotional methods o…6 objectives · 1 study page
- Income elasticity of demand (YED)4 specification points covering a) The significance of income elasticity of demand to firms, b) Calculation of income elasticity of demand, c)…12 objectives · 4 study pages
- Productivity2 specification points covering a) Productivity (output per unit of input in a given time period): o factors influencing productivity o link between…6 objectives · 2 study pages
- Capacity utilisation4 specification points covering a) Full capacity and spare capacity, b) Capacity utilisation: o current output (divided by) maximum possible output (as a…12 objectives · 4 study pages
- Efficiency and competitiveness using lean production4 specification points covering a) Quality: control, assurance, Total Quality Management (TQM), b) Continuous improvement (Kaizen), c) Just in time (JIT)…12 objectives · 4 study pages
12 of 24 shown
The economic environment and business19 topics
- Growing economies5 specification points covering a) Growing economic power of: o Asia (China and India) o Africa o other emerging markets, b) Implications of economic growth…15 objectives · 5 study pages
- Trade and growth4 specification points covering a) Increasing trade liberalisation, b) The role of specialisation and increasing specialisation by country, c) Trade…12 objectives · 4 study pages
- Trading blocs4 specification points covering a) Trade creation and trade diversion, b) Expansion of trading blocs: o EU and the single market o ASEAN o NAFTA, c) Impact…12 objectives · 3 study pages
- Trade policy and trade negotiations2 specification points covering a) Protectionism: o tariffs and import quotas (with diagrammatic representation) o other trade barriers o government…6 objectives · 2 study pages
- Exchange rate changes2 specification points covering a) Impact of changes in exchange rates and the possible effects on: o the current account and the balance of payments o…6 objectives · 1 study page
- Conditions that prompt trade5 specification points covering a) Push factors: o saturated markets o competition, b) Pull factors: o economies of scale o risk spreading, c) Possibility…15 objectives · 5 study pages
- Assessing the potential of different economies2 specification points covering a) Factors influencing expansion into a market: o levels and growth of disposable income o ease of doing business o…6 objectives · 2 study pages
- Responding to global demand4 specification points covering a) Globalisation vs glocalisation, b) Different approaches to global markets: o domestic/ethnocentric o mixed/geocentric o…12 objectives · 4 study pages
- Demand-side factors in global markets3 specification points covering a) Cultural/social factors: o cultural differences o different tastes, b) Information and communication factors: o language,…9 objectives · 3 study pages
- The impact of multinational corporations (MNCs)2 specification points covering a) Impact of MNCs on the local economy: o local labour, wages, working conditions and job creation o local firms o the local…6 objectives · 2 study pages
- Ethical issues5 specification points covering a) Stakeholder conflicts, b) Pay and working conditions, c) Environmental considerations: o emissions o waste disposal and…15 objectives · 5 study pages
- Controlling MNCs2 specification points covering a) Factors to consider: o political influence o legal control o pressure groups o social media, b) Self-regulation.6 objectives · 2 study pages
12 of 19 shown
Making markets work19 topics
- Spectrum of competition5 specification points covering a) Characteristics of monopoly, oligopoly, imperfect and perfect competition, b) How the model of perfect competition helps…15 objectives · 2 study pages
- Barriers to entry4 specification points covering a) Contestability and ease of entry, b) Barriers to entry: o product differentiation o branding o start-up costs o…12 objectives · 4 study pages
- Oligopoly4 specification points covering a) Concentration ratios, b) Competition in an oligopoly; interdependence and price stability, c) Tacit agreement and related…12 objectives · 4 study pages
- Business objectives and pricing decisions4 specification points covering a) Calculate average cost, average revenue and profit, b) Calculate marginal cost and marginal revenue, c) Link between…12 objectives · 3 study pages
- Productive and allocative efficiency5 specification points covering a) The distinction between allocative efficiency and productive efficiency, b) The significance of the margin; opportunity…15 objectives · 5 study pages
- Market failure2 specification points covering a) Significance of market power: o cartels, collusion, restrictive practices and tacit agreement o monopsony power o natural…6 objectives · 1 study page
- Business regulation6 specification points covering a) Promoting competition through: o preventing anti-competitive practices o controlling mergers and takeovers o…18 objectives · 5 study pages
- Arguments for and against regulation2 specification points covering a) The benefits of regulation, b) The costs of regulation.6 objectives · 1 study page
- Market failure in society6 specification points covering a) The consequences of under-provision and under- consumption of merit and other goods and services, b) Positive and…18 objectives · 6 study pages
- Externalities3 specification points covering a) Private, external and social costs and benefits, b) The impact on society of charging prices that do not reflect total…9 objectives · 3 study pages
- Policies to deal with market failure2 specification points covering a) The provision of public and merit goods, indirect taxation of demerit goods, tradable pollution permits, provision of…6 objectives · 1 study page
- The AD/AS model6 specification points covering a) Changes in Aggregate Demand (AD), b) Changes in Aggregate Supply (AS), c) Full capacity output and related ideas.18 objectives · 5 study pages
12 of 19 shown
Quantitative skills1 topic
Accounting ratios1 topic
About this course
About Pearson Edexcel A-Level Economics B
Pearson Edexcel A-Level Economics B is a theme-based course that explores how markets, the economy, and government policy interact in the real world. You will study four core themes: markets, consumers and firms; the wider economic environment; the global economy; and making markets work. The specification emphasises the application of economic theory to current issues, helping you understand the decisions made by consumers, businesses, and governments.
The course is structured to develop your analytical and evaluative skills, with a strong focus on using economic models and data to support arguments. You will examine topics such as competition, inequality, globalisation, and environmental sustainability. The qualification is linear, meaning you will sit all exams at the end of your two-year study, and it is assessed entirely through written examinations.
Assessment Structure
This qualification is assessed through three written exam papers, each worth 33.3% of the final grade. Paper 1 (Markets, Consumers and Firms) is 2 hours and 30 minutes and includes multiple-choice, short-answer, and extended-writing questions. Paper 2 (The Wider Economic Environment) is also 2 hours and 30 minutes and follows a similar format. Paper 3 (The Global Economy) is 2 hours and 30 minutes and includes a pre-released context and extended essays. All papers are marked out of 100, giving a total of 300 marks for the A-Level.
Why Choose Pearson Edexcel?
- Edexcel Economics B is highly relevant to real-world issues, with a focus on current economic events and data, making it engaging for students who want to understand the economy beyond theory.
- The course offers a clear and logical structure through its four themes, allowing students to build their knowledge progressively and apply it to different contexts.
- Edexcel provides a wide range of support materials, including past papers, mark schemes, and examiner reports, which are invaluable for exam preparation and understanding assessment requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Edexcel Economics A and Economics B?
Economics A is more traditional and theoretical, focusing on standard micro and macro concepts. Economics B is context-driven, using real-world issues and data to explore economic ideas. Economics B is designed to be more accessible and applied, making it ideal for students who prefer learning through current events and case studies.
How many exams do I take for Edexcel A-Level Economics B?
You will take three exams at the end of your two-year course. Each exam is 2 hours and 30 minutes long and contributes equally to your final grade. There is no coursework; your entire grade is based on these written papers.
Is Edexcel Economics B accepted by universities?
Yes, Edexcel A-Level Economics B is a rigorous qualification recognised by universities across the UK and abroad. It provides a strong foundation for degrees in economics, business, finance, and related social sciences. Many students progress to Russell Group universities with this qualification.
What skills will I develop studying Economics B?
You will develop analytical and critical thinking skills, learn to interpret economic data, and construct well-reasoned arguments. You will also improve your ability to apply economic models to real-world situations, which is valuable for further study and employment.
How can I prepare effectively for the Edexcel Economics B exams?
Focus on understanding economic concepts and their applications, practise past papers under timed conditions, and stay updated with current economic news. Use the examiner reports to understand common mistakes and mark schemes to learn what examiners look for. Regular revision of key terms and diagrams is also essential.
Assessment and exam guidance
Assessment Objectives
AO1
20%-25%Demonstrate knowledge of terms/concepts and theories/analysis to show an understanding of the behaviour of economic agents and how they are affected by and respond to economic issues.
AO2
20%-25%Apply knowledge and understanding to various economic contexts to show how economic agents are affected by and respond to economic issues.
AO3
25%-30%Analyse issues within economics, showing an understanding of their impact on economic agents.
AO4
25%-30%Evaluate economic arguments and use qualitative and quantitative evidence to support informed judgements.
Exam Structure
Pearson Edexcel A-Level (9EB0)
Paper 1: Markets and how they work
2h
Duration
100
Marks
35%
Weighting
Paper 2: Competing in the global economy
2h
Duration
100
Marks
35%
Weighting
Paper 3: The economic environment and business
2h
Duration
100
Marks
30%
Weighting
Tips and common mistakes
Common Exam Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exams
- •Confusing 'wants' with 'needs'. Needs are essential for survival and are finite, whereas wants are desires that are unlimited.
- •Stating that scarcity only affects developing economies or poor individuals. Scarcity is a universal problem that affects all economies and individuals, regardless of wealth, because wants always exceed available resources.
- •Defining scarcity simply as a 'shortage' of a specific good. A shortage is a temporary market disequilibrium, whereas scarcity is a permanent, fundamental condition of the universe.
- •Using 'trade-off' and 'opportunity cost' as exact synonyms. A trade-off refers to all the alternatives given up, whereas opportunity cost is specifically the value of the next best alternative forgone.
- •Assuming that trade-offs only apply to financial decisions. Trade-offs apply to the allocation of any scarce resource, including time, labour, and physical space.
- •Failing to identify the specific trade-off in an applied scenario. Always explicitly state what is being gained and what is being sacrificed when analysing a choice.
- •Defining opportunity cost as all alternatives forgone. Correction: It is only the next best alternative forgone.
- •Confusing opportunity cost with financial cost. Correction: Opportunity cost includes non-financial sacrifices, such as time or utility.
Top Examiner Tips
Expert advice for exam success
- •Always explicitly link the concept of finite resources to unlimited wants when defining the economic problem.
- •Use the term 'factors of production' when discussing finite resources to demonstrate precise economic vocabulary.
- •Be prepared to identify examples of scarcity in multiple-choice questions by looking for scenarios where demand outstrips available resources.
- •When evaluating a business decision, explicitly state the potential trade-offs to demonstrate analytical depth.
- •Look for multiple-choice options that highlight the sacrifice of one good or service for another when identifying trade-offs.
- •Use production possibility frontiers to visually illustrate trade-offs between two different goods in an economy.
- •Always include the phrase 'next best alternative forgone' when defining opportunity cost.
- •Be prepared to apply the concept of opportunity cost to a specific scenario provided in the stimulus material.
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