Economics is a challenging subject that requires strong analytical and evaluative skills for essays, and mathematical skills for recognising trends in and interpreting data. The most important skill for success in Economics A Level is to be able to apply orthodox economic theory to a scenario, identify what it is about the scenario that is unorthodox, and subsequently recognise the limitations of conventional economic analysis. Essentially an interrogative mind is the key to success for every Economics student. The A Level comprises of four themes, and culminates in three exam papers. Themes 1 and 3 focus on microeconomics – that is a detailed study of the inner workings of firms, industries and individual consumer behaviour. Themes 2 and 4 make up the macroeconomic component. This involves studying the economy of individual countries, and international economic relationships. There is one microeconomics exam paper, one macroeconomics exam paper and one synoptic paper which potentially has elements of every theme. All exams are taken at the end of the Upper Sixth, and there is no coursework component.