Mastering the 20-mark business evaluation question is your ticket to... Show more
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james Brooker
06/12/2025
Business
How to answer a 20 mark question
288
•
6 Dec 2025
•
Mastering 20 Mark Questions: A Complete Guide
james Brooker
@jamesbrooker_nfkt
1 / 3
The 20-Mark Question Structure
Think of the 20-mark evaluation question as your chance to shine - it's worth a fifth of your exam! You'll get two options to compare, and your job is to argue which one's better for the business.
Your answer needs four main chunks: one positive argument for each option, one negative argument for each option, then a stellar judgement that ties everything together. Each argument should use PBLT (Point, Business knowledge, Link, Therefore) and connect back to the question's main focus.
The judgement is where you'll make or break your grade. Start with "In my opinion, I think that..." then use the AIM structure: Answer the question directly, explain what It depends on, and identify the Most important factor. Don't just repeat your earlier points - bring in fresh evidence and MOPS factors (Market, Operations, People, Society) to show deeper thinking.
Top tip: Use words like "could" rather than "will" to avoid making assertions - businesses are unpredictable!
The Marking Levels You Need to Know
The marking scheme has four levels, and you're aiming for that sweet Level 4 . Level 1 gets you nowhere - it's just random business terms thrown together without any real connection to the question.
Level 2 and 3 show you're on the right track with decent business knowledge and some logical reasoning. You'll hit Level 3 if you can build complete cause-and-effect chains and use some data to back up your points.
Level 4 is the golden standard - this is where your arguments become fully developed and you use both numbers and qualitative information brilliantly. You'll show you understand all sides of the argument and deliver a balanced conclusion that actually solves the business problem.
The key difference between Level 3 and 4? Coherent reasoning and using evidence effectively. Level 4 answers don't just list points - they weave everything together into a compelling business case.
Remember: Each level covers a range of marks, so even small improvements in your technique can bump you up several marks.
Your Level 4 Strategy
Link everything back to the question's main focus - this is your golden thread running through the entire answer. Pick your strongest arguments where you've got the most solid evidence, rather than trying to cover everything.
Hunt for those golden nuggets in the case study - specific numbers, company details, and context that show you're not just writing generic business waffle. Mix quantitative data (the numbers) with qualitative information (the descriptions and explanations) to build bulletproof arguments.
If you're running short on time, trim your negative arguments but never skip them entirely. Your judgement paragraph needs something completely fresh - don't just rehash your earlier points.
MOPS factors (Market conditions, Operations, People, Society) are your secret weapon for the judgement. They show you're thinking like a real business manager who considers all angles before making decisions.
Time-saving hack: If you're struggling for time, shorten the PBLT structure in your "against" paragraphs, but always keep that vital link back to the question.
We thought you’d never ask...
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4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Mastering 20 Mark Questions: A Complete Guide
james Brooker
@jamesbrooker_nfkt
Mastering the 20-mark business evaluation question is your ticket to top grades - these questions test everything from basic knowledge to high-level analysis. You'll need to weigh up two options, build solid arguments, and deliver a cracking judgement that shows... Show more
The 20-Mark Question Structure
Think of the 20-mark evaluation question as your chance to shine - it's worth a fifth of your exam! You'll get two options to compare, and your job is to argue which one's better for the business.
Your answer needs four main chunks: one positive argument for each option, one negative argument for each option, then a stellar judgement that ties everything together. Each argument should use PBLT (Point, Business knowledge, Link, Therefore) and connect back to the question's main focus.
The judgement is where you'll make or break your grade. Start with "In my opinion, I think that..." then use the AIM structure: Answer the question directly, explain what It depends on, and identify the Most important factor. Don't just repeat your earlier points - bring in fresh evidence and MOPS factors (Market, Operations, People, Society) to show deeper thinking.
Top tip: Use words like "could" rather than "will" to avoid making assertions - businesses are unpredictable!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Marking Levels You Need to Know
The marking scheme has four levels, and you're aiming for that sweet Level 4 . Level 1 gets you nowhere - it's just random business terms thrown together without any real connection to the question.
Level 2 and 3 show you're on the right track with decent business knowledge and some logical reasoning. You'll hit Level 3 if you can build complete cause-and-effect chains and use some data to back up your points.
Level 4 is the golden standard - this is where your arguments become fully developed and you use both numbers and qualitative information brilliantly. You'll show you understand all sides of the argument and deliver a balanced conclusion that actually solves the business problem.
The key difference between Level 3 and 4? Coherent reasoning and using evidence effectively. Level 4 answers don't just list points - they weave everything together into a compelling business case.
Remember: Each level covers a range of marks, so even small improvements in your technique can bump you up several marks.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Your Level 4 Strategy
Link everything back to the question's main focus - this is your golden thread running through the entire answer. Pick your strongest arguments where you've got the most solid evidence, rather than trying to cover everything.
Hunt for those golden nuggets in the case study - specific numbers, company details, and context that show you're not just writing generic business waffle. Mix quantitative data (the numbers) with qualitative information (the descriptions and explanations) to build bulletproof arguments.
If you're running short on time, trim your negative arguments but never skip them entirely. Your judgement paragraph needs something completely fresh - don't just rehash your earlier points.
MOPS factors (Market conditions, Operations, People, Society) are your secret weapon for the judgement. They show you're thinking like a real business manager who considers all angles before making decisions.
Time-saving hack: If you're struggling for time, shorten the PBLT structure in your "against" paragraphs, but always keep that vital link back to the question.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user