Paper	Main focus	Assessment
Paper 1	UK government and politics	2 hours; 77 marks
Paper 2	US government and politics, with comparison	2 hours; 77 marks
Paper 3	Political ideas	2 hours; 77 marks

Make evidence do useful work

Choose a clear criterion

Decide what a claim such as “effective” or “representative” means in the question. Use that criterion consistently.

Compare equivalent features

When comparing the UK and USA, explain a meaningful similarity or difference and its consequences. Avoid two disconnected descriptions.

Evaluate political ideas

Examine disagreements within a tradition as well as between traditions. Link a thinker’s argument to the issue being discussed.

Keep an example bank you can explain

Each paper contributes one third of the qualification. Choose a small set of accurate examples and record what each demonstrates. Check current details before relying on an event in an essay.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to agree with a political argument to discuss it well?

No. A useful lesson can help you explain an argument fairly, assess its evidence and identify a reasoned objection.

Can tuition improve essay structure?

Yes. Begin with the question, outline competing arguments and explain the judgement each paragraph develops. A plan should guide an answer, not replace thinking.

How do I find a suitable tutor?

Use a free 15-minute introduction to discuss your optional political idea, a recent answer and the feedback you want help applying.

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