How to Approach A Level Chemistry Data & Practical Questions
How to Approach A Level Chemistry Data & Practical Questions
Created:Updated: 17-September-2025
Data analysis and practical skills questions are an important part of A Level Chemistry exams.
They test whether you can interpret results, handle experimental data, and apply your knowledge of chemistry to unfamiliar situations.
What do these questions involve?
Data analysis questions may ask you to work with tables, graphs, or experimental results and draw conclusions from the evidence given.
Practical skills questions may cover planning experiments, identifying sources of error, or evaluating the reliability of methods.
Check the AQA Chemistry specification to see the required practicals and assessed skills.
Why examiners include them
These questions assess whether you can apply your knowledge beyond memorised facts.
Examiners want to know if you can interpret unfamiliar scenarios logically and show an understanding of experimental chemistry.
This links closely to AO2 and AO3 exam objectives, which focus on application and analysis.
How to tackle data analysis questions
Read the question carefully and identify exactly what is being asked before attempting calculations or writing conclusions.
Use appropriate units, significant figures, and clear working — many marks are awarded for method as well as the final answer.
Practising with past papers is the best way to build confidence in data interpretation.
How to tackle practical skills questions
Be prepared to describe experimental methods clearly, explaining why each step is important for accuracy or reliability.
Learn the standard sources of error, such as heat loss, incomplete reactions, or inaccurate measurements, and how to minimise them.
For planning questions, outline the aim, method, variables, and equipment logically, as if you were writing a mini-lab report.
Key skills to practise
- Interpreting graphs and identifying trends.
- Calculating percentage error and uncertainty.
- Evaluating reliability and suggesting improvements.
- Planning methods with appropriate controls and safety considerations.
- Applying theoretical knowledge to experimental contexts.
You can review practical requirements in the JCQ guidance for private candidates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the practical endorsement to answer these questions?
No, the questions can be answered without the endorsement, but practical experience makes them easier.
How many marks are data analysis and practical skills questions worth?
It varies, but typically 15–20% of the total marks test these skills across the exam papers.
How can I improve at these types of questions?
Practise with past papers, pay attention to command words like “explain” and “evaluate,” and review mark schemes to see what examiners expect.