A peek behind the scenes: How I create Paper 1 case studies

If you’ve ever wondered how the IB Business Paper 1 case studies in my store are created, you’re in the right place. Every year, I spend around 30 to 35 hours developing these case study packs for Paper 1, and for November 2025 it’s no different. This process is one part exam prep, one part business nerd joy, and all focused on saving you time while giving your students high-quality, realistic practice.

Here’s a step-by-step look inside my process.

Step 1: Read the IB Business Paper 1 Case Study (Again and Again)

It might sound obvious, but I always start by printing out the official IB Business Paper 1 case study. Then I read through it multiple times. I highlight key phrases, annotate in the margins, and start to notice patterns and vocabulary that might lead to certain types of questions. This helps me really absorb the context and language students will be working with.

Step 2: Research the Industry Behind the Case Study

Understanding the industry is optional, but I think it makes a huge difference. It helps me write more realistic scenarios, gives me confidence when answering student questions, and honestly, I just enjoy learning more about the businesses involved.

In my previous post, I shared a few interesting articles I found related to the November 2025 Paper 1 case study. You can also find them on my blog here.

Step 3: Look Back at Past IB Business Paper 1 Exams

To design strong case study packs for November 2025, I review previous IB Business Paper 1 exams from both May and November sessions, including all time zones. I study the style of the questions, how the extract connects to the full case study, and what types of scenarios come up repeatedly. Spotting trends helps me create case studies that reflect real IB exam expectations.

Step 4: Create Possible Storylines

Once I understand the background, I brainstorm 4 to 5 different directions the case study could go. These storylines build on the given extract and help students think about multiple possible outcomes. I like to plan all three case studies at once to ensure there’s no repetition and that each offers a unique angle. Then I choose the three that I think offer the best variety of learning opportunities.

Step 5: Draft Questions by Unit

Each case study I create includes questions covering every unit from the IB Business syllabus. To do this, I make a running list of possible questions under each unit heading. If I need around 24 questions total, I write about 40 options. This gives me flexibility to adjust as I shape the final case studies and ensures each one has full syllabus coverage.

Step 6: Write the Case Studies

This is my favorite part! I take the chosen storyline and draft a full-length IB-style Paper 1 case study. I make sure it uses appropriate vocabulary, is clearly written, and follows the structure students will see on the real exam. I write one case study at a time so I can give each one my full attention. It’s a bit like solving a puzzle, and I love it.

Step 7: Create the Markschemes

Now for the hardest part. Writing the markschemes takes time and care. I try to include all reasonable answers students might write, referencing multiple textbooks and reliable sources to support the content. I also format each markscheme for ease of use, making it clear, consistent, and teacher-friendly.

Step 8: First Round of Revisions

Once the first drafts are complete, I go back through everything. I check that:

• All key vocabulary is integrated

• Each unit is covered

• The story flows clearly

• Grammar and formatting are polished

The layout mimics the IB Business Paper 1 style including line numbers (which take more time than you’d think!)

Step 9: Get a Second Set of Eyes

At this point, I’m too close to the work. I always have someone else read through the case studies and markschemes — usually my husband, sometimes my mom, or a coworker. Whoever I can convince to help! They let me know if anything is confusing, inconsistent, or just doesn’t work.

Step 10: Finalize the Pack for You

Last, I combine everything into one clean, professional PDF. This is the version that’s uploaded to my website and ready for instant download. I want teachers across the world to be able to open the file and use it right away- no formatting or fuss needed.

How Long Does It Take to Create These Case Studies?

On average, it takes me 30 to 35 hours to plan, write, revise, and format the full set of IB Business Paper 1 case studies. It’s a big time commitment, but I do it so you don’t have to. I know how busy teachers are, especially during exam prep season. My goal is to give you ready-to-use, high-quality resources that reflect the IB style and save you hours of planning. That way, you can focus on supporting your students, not writing your own case studies from scratch.

Want to take a look at the November 2025 Paper 1 case study pack?

Check back on August 16th for the full set of exam-style case studies, complete with markschemes and full syllabus coverage. You’ll be able to download the pack and start prepping right away.