Cambridge Professional Development

Key messages from the PERT

Paper 1
• Follow the command word in the question
• Learn precise definitions for key terms
• Show all working throughout calculation questions
• Candidates should use and interpret the information provided
• Candidates need to read the stem carefully to identify both the type of business and who they are
writing their response about
• Read the questions carefully to ensure the correct focus
• Parts (a) and (b) require precise definitions and calculations
• Parts (c) and (d) require candidates to identify and explain points
• Parts (c) and (d) should be answered in the context of the business in the stem of the question
• Part (e) questions should include developed arguments resulting in logical conclusions/decision
based on the points made. Include a two-sided argument where possible
• Part (e) should have a decision made at the end of the question which says more than ‘yes’ or ‘no’
but should include a justification of the decision made based on the points made in the earlier part of
the question
• Don’t include many points on each side of the argument – the answer only needs one clearly
explained argument on each side and then a justified decision, all in context, to gain all 6 marks

Paper 2
• Follow the command word in the question
• Read the insert carefully to identify the type of business under discussion in the question
• Refer to the information in the insert throughout your answers
• Candidates must make clear references to the case study in parts (a) and (b) questions
• Detailed explanation should be developed rather than a simple listing of points for part (a) questions
• Candidates should make sure their answer is for the correct stakeholder identified in the question
• Show all working throughout calculation questions
• Part (b) questions require candidates to analyse, e.g. give advantages and disadvantages of the
particular options. Answers should have a full explanation of advantages and disadvantages of
alternative options in (b) questions
• Part (b) questions usually require a justified recommendation at the end. It is important to include
balanced argument without full repetition of the previous analysis. Candidates should not just repeat
earlier points in (b) question recommendations
• Recommendations should contain a justification of the choice as well as justification of why the
alternative options were not chosen

Key messages from the PERT 0450_0986_Ext_OTG_PERT