This took me a little longer than expected, after posting the first video, so many of you got in touch asking for a full model answer… so I wanted to make sure this really delivered for you.

In this answer, I’ve tackled the trickier element of the question, evaluating the research methods used by cognitive psychologists, and shown how you can leverage knowledge from other topics to strengthen your AO3.

This is exactly the level of detail and structure that helps move answers up the mark scheme.

Use this to:

✔️ See what a top-band answer looks like

✔️ Understand how to structure your evaluation

I’m breaking down this 16-mark question in two parts today:

“Describe the cognitive approach in psychology. Evaluate the research methods used by cognitive psychologists.”

📍 Part 1 is now live — focusing on the AO1 (description) of the cognitive approach.

This is where you should be securing marks by clearly explaining:

• Internal mental processes

• The role of schemas

I’ve been getting lots of emails recently asking: “How can I fit it all in?” and “How do I remember 4 evaluation points per topic?”

Year 13...right now, time is against us! So it’s all about working smart and thinking about how your knowledge can be reused across topics.

Year 12, if you start making these links now, your year 13 self will thank you!

I wrote a blog post on this a few weeks ago, and it’s advice I keep repeating 1:1 with students and in masterclasses. The truth is: textbooks often give you 4+ evaluation points per double-page spread. Remembering all of them perfectly isn’t realistic...so stop trying!

✅ Tip: Focus on recognising where evaluation can be applied across topics and how examples can work for multiple points.

Read the blog post for my full guide on how to make evaluation more manageable and start working smarter, not harder!

A huge thank you to everyone who joined the Research Methods masterclass. I hope you were able to take something really useful away from it 🙌

I’ve been going through your question responses and identifying some of the key areas that need a bit more clarification, so keep an eye out. I’m currently putting together an email to help iron those out.

📚 A resource I really recommend…

Research Methods is one of those areas where you have to go beyond the textbook.

It’s not just about knowing definitions; it’s about being able to apply your knowledge to real research scenarios.

That’s why I always recommend Tutor2u Psychology in the News. These are great for:

Attachment has a huge number of studies, especially the ones named in the AQA spec, it can feel tricky to get your head around them all.

To help, I’ve created editable study summary templates that make reviewing research easier.

They’re perfect for:

✔ Attachment studies

✔ Other topics too — just swap in the relevant studies

Use them to keep key details, evaluation points, and practical applications all in one place.