Here are some key diagrams for A-level macroeconomics exams and revision. Can be used for AQA, Edexcel A and other exam boards.
If you want more advice about evaluation and 25 mark questions, see the link below:
A PDF file of the diagrams is below:
For other resources, check out these links here:
Related questions
How to think of diagrams to use
For macroeconomics, the key diagram is aggregate supply and aggregate demand. This will make up a majority of your diagrams for A-level Economics.
So, if unsure, a good starting point is: how could I answer this question using an AS-AD diagram?
Also it is worth learning the other key diagrams for macro. This includes but is not limited to those listed above in the diagrams document. For example, currency diagrams, tariff diagrams, and so on.
How to construct high level diagrams
For AS-AD, there are several ways to make higher level diagrams:
- Show double shifts in aggregate demand where there is a multiplier effect.
- Show shifts in both SRAS and LRAS on the same diagram, where a given cause or policy change will cause both to shift.
- Consider using the Keynesian (LR)AS curve, where that would help you explain further. For example, Keynesian LRAS can highlight the importance of spare capacity.
- Where one of AS or AD shifts, you can discuss and/or show the movement along the other. If AS shifts, you can explain why there is a contraction or extension in AD in the move to a new equilibrium.
Also, tariff diagrams are another example of diagrams you can elevate. Depending on the question, you can use a tariff diagram to show any of the following:
- Welfare changes;
- Producer surplus changes;
- Consumer surplus changes;
- Government revenue.
In addition, consider other diagrams beyond the basic diagrams. This includes crowding out and the Laffer curve.
Other diagrams
Other possible diagrams could include, but are not limited to:
- Export subsidy and quota diagrams.
- Multiple currency supply and demand shifts to show how a central bank maintains a fixed exchange rate.
- SRAS shift plus convergence to long-run equilibrium.
- Movements along various AD or AS curves.
- Automatic stabilisers – AD fall then AD shifts back outwards (or the other way around).
- Keynesian (LR)AS.
- Comparative advantage data table.
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