7100_s26_ms_22 2026 May-June Commerce 7100 Mark Scheme 2 Variant 2 · Cambridge CAIE O Level

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7100_s26_ms_222026 May-June Commerce 7100 Mark Scheme 2 Variant 2

This is the official Cambridge mark scheme for Commerce (7100) Mark Scheme 2 (Variant 2) from the 2026 May-June session. Mark schemes show exactly how each mark is awarded, including acceptable alternative answers, required key terms, and common errors that lose marks. Cambridge mark schemes use notation like "allow," "accept," and "do not credit" to define the boundary between full marks and zero.

Also referenced as: 7100_s26_ms_22 · 7100/22/m/j/26 ms · 7100/22 May/June 2026 ms

Paper 2: Written This is Paper 2: Written, worth 80 marks with a duration of 2h. Five compulsory structured questions with sub-parts. Each question includes a mix of 2-mark knowledge items, 4-mark explanation items, 6-mark analysis questions, and 8-mark evaluation questions. Three 6-mark questions and two 8-mark questions are graded level-based — quality of reasoning (knowledge → application → analysis → evaluation) determines the band, not quantity of points. Answers to 6–8 mark questions must be developed with examples and application.

This mark scheme corresponds to 7100_s26_qp_22. For maximum revision benefit, attempt the question paper under strict exam conditions first, then use this mark scheme to self-assess. Pay attention to the marking notation: "allow" means an alternative is accepted, "do not credit" means a specific phrasing is rejected even if technically correct, and "ORA" (or reverse argument) means the mark can also be earned with the opposite reasoning.

Cambridge mark schemes reward precise language. For Commerce (7100), look for keywords the examiner requires — definitions must include specific terms (e.g., "per unit mass," "resultant"), and calculations must show working even if the final answer is correct. Understanding mark scheme conventions helps you write answers that hit every marking point, not just the general idea.

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Same paper, other years

Commerce (7100) Mark Scheme 2 (Variant 2) from other exam sessions — practise the same paper across the years, then check each one against its mark scheme.

Examiner Insights — Paper 2: Written

Based on analysis of 4 official Cambridge documents (2023, 2024, 2025)

1

Giving unqualified single-word answers like 'easier', 'quicker', 'cheaper' without explanation

Unqualified single words, such as 'easier', 'quicker' and 'cheaper' do not score marks – these should be explained to receive the marks.7100 Paper 22, May/June 2023

How to fix: Never write a standalone adjective as your answer. Always follow it with 'because...' and a specific reason. For example, instead of 'cheaper', write 'It is cheaper because buying in bulk allows the retailer to negotiate trade discounts from the wholesaler, reducing the cost per unit.'

2

Not matching the number of responses to what the question asks for

Some candidates gave either one or three methods. It should be emphasised to candidates that including less than the question asks for will reduce the maximum marks that a candidate can score; likewise, including more than the prescribed number does not gain any more marks and may waste valuable examination time.7100 Paper 22, May/June 2023

How to fix: Before writing, underline the number in the question (e.g. 'two methods', 'one reason'). Give exactly that number of points. Fewer means lost marks; more wastes time with no extra credit. Number your points clearly (1, 2) so you can verify the count.

3

Describing points in 6–8 mark questions without analysis or evaluation

Weaker answers described one or two warehousing functions without analysis or subsequent evaluation.7100 Paper 22, May/June 2023

How to fix: For 6–8 mark questions, follow this progression: (1) State the point, (2) Explain how/why it matters using a specific example, (3) Analyse the consequence or implication, (4) Evaluate by weighing advantages against disadvantages and giving a justified conclusion. Simply listing features without development will cap your mark at a low level.

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All Commerce (7100) Papers — 2026 May-June

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Commerce Exam Guide: How to Score Higher

Top mistakes, scoring patterns & answer frameworks from 4 official Cambridge documents