Planning your answer

In this lesson

1. 0:00 Why planning matters for case study answers
2. 2:18 Step-by-step planning structure explained
3. 5:13 Applying the planning process to real questions
4. 10:35 Recognising good planning in marked answers
5. 12:28 Common planning mistakes to avoid
6. 14:20 Why planning saves time and improves marks

About this lesson

You'll discover the telltale signs of an unplanned answer: sporadic points scattered throughout, incomplete coverage of the question, and wasted time on repetition that earns no extra marks. The core technique is straightforward. Read each subtask carefully, note the percentage allocation beside it, then apply the simple rule: roughly one paragraph per 10% of marks. Add a clear heading for the subtask, insert keywords that represent each paragraph's main point, then write your content underneath. This structure takes minutes to set up but transforms your answer's clarity and coherence. You'll see practical examples of both a well-planned answer—with clear headings, balanced paragraphs, and no duplication—and a poorly planned one that wastes time on unnecessary points and uneven coverage. Planning prevents the most common costly mistakes: repeating the same point (which gains no extra marks but costs you time), writing too much on one part of the question at the expense of others, and failing to address all requirements. Even a simple plan ensures you have "just enough" content—neither too little to miss marks nor too much to starve other questions of your attention. This technique is used by top students and tutors alike because it directly improves both your marks and your time management under pressure.

Duration: 16m