Subject Guide
Business Management
Structure + application. Marks come from using tools (SWOT, Ansoff, STP) correctly and applying to the case.
Scoring-7 rule: Point → Business tool → Apply to case → Evaluate → Recommendation.
Common Paper Skills
Definitions
- Precise terminology (revenue vs profit)
- Explain in business language
Case Application
- Use names, numbers, context
- Don’t write generic answers
Evaluation
- Pros/cons + constraints
- End with recommendation
Tools You Should Know
- SWOT + STEEPLE
- Ansoff Matrix
- Porter’s Generic Strategies
- 4Ps (Marketing Mix)
- Decision Tree / Break-even
- Budgets + Cash flow basics
Quantitative Marks (Easy Wins)
- Gross profit / profit margin
- Contribution + break-even
- Sales forecasting basics
- Cash flow interpretation
Rule: Show formula → substitute → units → interpretation.
Best Study Method (Weekly)
- 2x/week: timed case questions
- 1x/week: one “tool” revision sheet
- Daily: definitions (10 mins)
- Error log: generic answers, missing evaluation
Common Mark Traps
- Not applying to the case
- Forgetting recommendation
- Using the wrong tool
- No numbers/quant when available
Quick Checklist
- Did I use a business tool?
- Did I apply it to the case facts?
- Did I evaluate constraints?
- Did I finish with a recommendation?