How to Master Forensic Psychology Exam Questions (Even If You Struggle With AO3)
If you're revising Forensic Psychology and find yourself stuck on how to write a proper 16-marker — you're not alone.
Most students can remember key terms like 'eyewitness testimony' or 'top-down profiling'… but when it comes to applying them and evaluating them in an exam, it all falls apart. That’s because Forensic Psychology questions are usually application-heavy, AO3-heavy, or both.
But here’s the good news:
There’s a formula to nailing every question type — and once you see it done well, it clicks.
Why Is Forensic Psychology So Tricky?
Unlike more predictable topics, forensic questions often include:
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Real-life offender scenarios (which test AO2)
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Complex evaluation (especially for biological or psychodynamic theories)
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Mixed-mark formats — including 2, 4, 6 and 16 markers
It’s no wonder students panic during Paper 3.
3 Ways to Instantly Improve Your Forensic Answers
1. Master the PBWC Structure
Every AO3 paragraph should follow:
Point → Because → Why → Counterargument
This keeps your evaluations structured, detailed, and top-band worthy.
2. Make Your AO Skills Obvious
Examiners are trained to spot:
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AO1 = Knowledge
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AO2 = Application to the scenario
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AO3 = Evaluation
The clearer you are, the easier it is for them to award marks.
3. Practise Using Real Questions
You can’t guess what you’ll get — so exposure to all past questions is essential. Even better if you have a model answer to guide you.
Grab Your Free Forensic Model Essay Pack
To help you revise faster and write stronger answers, we’ve created the Forensic Psychology Model Essay Pack — and it’s completely free.
✅ Covers every past AQA Forensic question
✅ Includes 2, 4, 6 and 16 markers
✅ Full AO1, AO2 and AO3 breakdown
✅ Clear, exam-style writing
✅ Instant digital download
🎁 Click here to download your free pack now
(You’ll also get optional tips, study freebies, and A-Level aftercare like uni advice, apprenticeships and job tips.)
Why Students Love It
“I used this the week before my mock and went from a C to an A. I finally understood how to evaluate properly!”
– Year 13 Student
Seeing what a full-mark answer actually looks like can be a complete game changer.
So don’t just revise — revise strategically.