The extended answer is worth 30% of your course and a large part of each examination. It is where you show you can sustain an argument, not just recall facts. The good news: a strong extended answer follows a reliable structure you can practise until it's automatic.
Decode the question before you write
Extended-answer questions usually carry an analyse, evaluate or discuss directive. Each demands more than explanation:
- Analyse — break the issue into its parts and show how they relate and interact.
- Evaluate — weigh strengths against weaknesses, costs against benefits, then reach a supported judgement.
- Discuss — present more than one point of view before concluding.
A structure that works every time
- Introduction — define the key terms in the question and state the position or scope of your answer in two or three sentences. Don't waffle; signpost.
- Body paragraphs — one idea per paragraph, each following the same internal shape (below). Three to four developed paragraphs is usually right.
- Diagram(s) — integrate at least one fully labelled diagram and refer to it in the prose ("as Figure 1 shows, AD shifts right…"). A diagram that isn't discussed earns little.
- Conclusion — for evaluate/discuss, give a clear, justified judgement that follows from your body. Don't introduce new content.
The paragraph engine: P–E–E–L
Build every body paragraph the same way:
Worked paragraph (evaluate fiscal policy)
Integrating diagrams
- Draw it large, rule your lines, and label every axis, curve and equilibrium.
- Show the shift with an arrow and a new curve (e.g. AD → AD₂), and mark the new equilibrium.
- Reference it explicitly in the sentence before or after.
Timing & planning
Pre-submission checklist
- Did I answer the verb (judgement for evaluate/discuss)?
- Does every paragraph follow P–E–E–L and link back to the question?
- Is there at least one fully labelled diagram, referenced in the prose?
- Did I use Australian evidence or data where relevant?
- Does my conclusion follow from the body without new material?