Data Response Paper
IB Economics Paper 2 Guide
Build confidence with case-study questions, calculations, diagrams and source-based evaluation.
Duration
1h 45m
Use marks to pace
Choice
1 of 2
Choose one case
Marks
40
25 + 15 marks
Calculator
Yes
GDC recommended
Other paper guides
SL / HL
Paper 1
Master structured economic essay writing for microeconomics, macroeconomics and global economics.
SL / HL
Currently viewingPaper 2
Build confidence with case-study questions, calculations, diagrams and source-based evaluation.
HL only
Paper 3
Prepare for HL policy analysis with quantitative skills, diagrams and reasoned recommendations.
What the Paper Tests
Paper 2 is about using data and text evidence to support economic reasoning.
- Interpret figures, extracts and diagrams from a case study.
- Show calculations clearly and use the results in your written answer.
- Use the case-study context when explaining theory and evaluation.
Question Structure
- Parts (a)-(f) total 25 marks and usually reward concise, accurate responses.
- Part (g) is worth 15 marks and needs developed analysis and evaluation.
- Questions often combine definitions, calculations, diagrams and policy judgement.
How to Score Highly
- Quote or paraphrase the data where it strengthens your answer.
- For calculations, write the formula, substitute values and give units where relevant.
- In part (g), keep returning to the specific economy, stakeholders and data provided.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring the source material and writing a generic textbook answer.
- Giving calculation answers without working or units.
- Writing too much for low-mark questions and losing time for part (g).
Revision checklist
- Practice extracting evidence from charts, tables and written extracts.
- Drill common formulas until the setup feels automatic.
- Write timed 15-mark responses using case-study evidence.
Ready to practise?
Put the strategy into practice
Practise the full paper, review key concepts with flashcards or test yourself with quizzes.
Past Papers & Mock Exams
Put the exam structure into practice with timed Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3 mock exams.
Flashcards
Review definitions, models and key concepts with premade IB Economics flashcard decks.
Quizzes
Test yourself with unit quizzes, diagrams, definitions and calculation practice.
Paper 2
Ready for a full practice paper?
Open the matching mock exam library and practise under exam conditions.
More mock exam practice
Explore the other IB Economics paper libraries.
Related resources
Practice Quizzes
Test definitions, diagrams and exam technique before moving to timed papers.
Economics Diagrams
Revise the diagrams that make your explanations clearer and easier to mark.
Real-World Examples
Build the examples needed for stronger Paper 1 and Paper 2 evaluation.
IA Guide
Use the same analytical habits in your internal assessment portfolio.