You’ve memorised the definitions. You’ve revised the theories. You can recite key studies on command. But you’re still dropping marks in 8- and 16-mark questions — and you don’t know why.
You’ve learnt the content, but can’t understand why you’re scoring 0/4 in scenario-related questions.
Here’s the harsh truth:
If you’re not applying your knowledge to the question, you’re not getting AO2 marks.
AO2 — or Application — is the skill of using psychological knowledge to explain specific situations. It’s not about repeating definitions or evaluations. It’s about showing that you understand how psychology works in context.
What Is AO2?
AO2 = Application of Knowledge
This means taking your psychological theory or research and:
- Applying it to a real-life example,
- Explaining a case study or scenario,
- Or referring directly to a stimulus (STEM) in the question.
How Much Is AO2 Worth?
AO2 are worth 33% of your psychology grade, and here’s the official AO2 weighting in higher mark exam questions:
| Question Type | AO2 Marks |
|---|---|
| 8-mark question (With STEM) | 2 marks |
| 16-mark question (With STEM) | 4 marks |
This might seem small, but those marks can make the difference between a Grade B and an A/A* — especially when examiners report that most students drop AO2 by failing to link to the stem or scenario.
How to Spot When AO2 Is Required
In AQA questions, look for key phrases like:
- “In this study…”
- “Refer to the scenario above”
- “Using your knowledge of [topic], explain why…”
- “Apply your knowledge to…”
These phrases always indicate that AO2 is being tested. If you ignore the scenario or don’t use the name/setting in the stem, you’ll lose AO2 marks, even if the rest of your answer is strong.
How to Write Strong AO2: Step-by-Step Structure
Use this 4-step structure every time you’re applying psychology to a scenario:
1. Identify the concept
State the theory or idea that applies.
“This behaviour can be explained using normative social influence.”
2. Explain the concept briefly
One sentence max — don’t turn this into AO1.
“This is when individuals conform to be accepted or liked by a group.”
3. Apply it directly to the scenario
Use names, settings, or behaviours from the stem.
“In the study, Jake agreed with his friends’ answer, even though he thought it was wrong, to avoid standing out.”
4. Link to the outcome
Show how the concept explains what happened.
“This explains why he conformed despite knowing the correct answer — to gain social approval.”
Example: Weak vs Strong AO2
Weak AO2:
“This is normative social influence, which is when you conform to fit in.”
✘ Why it fails: It defines the concept, but never links it to the actual scenario.
Strong AO2:
“Jake’s behaviour is an example of normative social influence — he gave the wrong answer to fit in with the group. This shows he valued social acceptance over accuracy.”
✔ Why it works: It uses the character’s name and links the concept directly to the behaviour in the stem.
Real Past Paper Examples: AO2 Triggers in Action
AQA June 2022 – Paper 1
“In this study, some students refused to complete the task. Use your knowledge of resistance to social influence to explain why this might have happened.”
To get AO2 here:
- You MUST refer to “some students”.
- You MUST explain the theory through the scenario, not separately.
AO2 Marking Tips from Examiners
✔ Use names and actions from the question (e.g. “Alex felt anxious” or “the students disagreed”).
✔ Apply the theory, don’t just define it.
✔ Write as if you’re explaining the person’s behaviour using psychology.
Don’t just say: “This is classical conditioning.”
Say: “Ella developed a fear of dogs after being bitten. According to classical conditioning, the dog bite (unconditioned stimulus) was paired with the dog (neutral stimulus), leading to fear (conditioned response).”
Your AO2 Checklist
- Have I used the name/setting from the scenario?
- Have I clearly linked a theory or study to it?
- Have I explained what that theory predicts in this case?
- Have I avoided giving a definition without linking it to context?
Final Thoughts: AO2 Is the Most Ignored Mark Band — Don’t Be That Student
If the question says “in this study,” you must talk about the study. That’s not optional.
If there’s a character mentioned, you must explain their behaviour using psychology.
These AO2 marks are easy to win once you understand the rules — but just as easy to lose if you write generic answers.
So next time you see a stem question, slow down. Spot the trigger phrases. Plan your AO2 paragraph using the 4-step structure. And apply what you know.
That’s how you secure every mark you’ve earned.