Cambridge IGCSE Enterprise 0454 — 2025 Oct/Nov Paper 1 · Variant 2
0454/12/O/N/25 · 100 marks · ≈113 min
The question paper and its mark scheme, free to read here and free to download. This is Cambridge’s own paper, exactly as it was sat.
Question paper16 pages
















Mark scheme25 pages
Answers below. Sit the paper first if you are practising.

























Paper as text
Question paper, page 1
[Turn over Cambridge IGCSE™ This document has 16 pages. Any blank pages are indicated. DC (WW) 340905/2 © UCLES 2025 ENTERPRISE 0454/12 Paper 1 October/November 2025 1 hour 30 minutes You must answer on the question paper. You will need: Insert (enclosed) INSTRUCTIONS ● Answer all questions. ● Use a black or dark blue pen. You may use an HB pencil for any diagrams or graphs. ● Write your name, centre number and candidate number in the boxes at the top of the page. ● Write your answer to each question in the space provided. ● Do not use an erasable pen or correction fluid. ● Do not write on any bar codes. INFORMATION ● The total mark for this paper is 100. ● The number of marks for each question or part question is shown in brackets [ ]. ● You should have received a copy of the case study before the examination. A copy of the case study is provided with this question paper as an insert. * 9 3 6 3 4 6 6 5 7 7 * , , * 0000800000001 * ¬O. 4mHuOªE_|5W ¬kwqS¢¤M}E3=uª ¥¥UUu5eu¥UEEU¥U U DFD
Question paper, page 2
2 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 Section A Answer all questions. 1 Jala is thinking of using leaflets to attract new customers. She asked Zac to design and print these leaflets for her. (a) State two marketing communications, other than leaflets. 1 … 2 … [2] (b) State two factors an enterprise would consider before choosing marketing communications. 1 … 2 … [2] (c) Explain one advantage of using leaflets to attract customers. Advantage … … … … [2] (d) Explain two ways laws and regulations could affect the marketing of an enterprise. 1 … … … … 2 … … … … [4] [Total: 10] * 0000800000002 * , , ĬÍĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊÞú·þ× ĬëõòÒĦĒĆæðûêċ·ÅÒăĂ ĥµÅÕµÕĥõÅåąąÅĕąĕåÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 3
3 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 [Turn over 2 Zac completed some research for his proposed enterprise to help him persuade stakeholders to become involved. (a) Define the term stakeholder. … … … … [2] (b) Explain how one stakeholder was involved in your enterprise project. Use an example to support your answer. … … … … … … [3] (c) State two disadvantages of secondary research. 1 … … 2 … … [2] (d) Explain how one method of market research helped you to make a decision in your enterprise project. Use an example to support your answer. Method of market research: … … … … … … [3] [Total: 10] * 0000800000003 * , , ĬÏĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊÞü·þ× ĬëöñÚĤĎöÓĊĆğÏ¿đÒóĂ ĥµµĕõµąĕÕÕÕąÅõĥÕµÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 4
4 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 3 Zac identified competitors’ prices and the potential costs for his enterprise. (a) Using Table 1, calculate the total amount a customer would pay for the printing and delivery of 2000 leaflets. Show your working. … … … … … … … Total amount … [4] (b) Using Table 2, calculate the number of leaflets Zac would need to print to break even if he charged $14.50 for every 100 leaflets. Show your working. … … … … … … … Break‑even quantity … [4] (c) Explain one cost that Zac had forgotten to include in his research for his proposed enterprise. … … … … [2] [Total: 10] * 0000800000004 * , , ĬÍĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊàú·Ā× ĬëöôÚĪĠóèĈýĨíģ³ÂċĂ ĥąĥĕµµąµµõåąąõÅÕåÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 5
5 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 [Turn over 4 Zac would be working alone in his enterprise but would need his parents’ help. (a) (i) State the type of business organisation Zac’s leaflet enterprise will be. … [1] (ii) Explain one disadvantage to Zac of operating as this type of business organisation. Use an example from the case study to support your answer. … … … … … … [3] (b) Explain how Zac’s enterprise could be affected by: (i) advances in technology … … … … [2] (ii) changes in taste … … … … [2] (c) Explain how you used one financial document in your enterprise project. Financial document: … … … … [2] [Total: 10] * 0000800000005 * , , ĬÏĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊàü·Ā× ĬëõóÒĠĤăÑòôáéěħÂûĂ ĥąĕÕõÕĥÕåąõąąĕåĕµÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 6
6 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 5 Zac intended to use a loan from his parents to buy the equipment and materials he would need for his enterprise. (a) State two sources of finance, other than loans. 1 … 2 … [2] (b) Describe one way a bank can support an enterprise, other than providing finance. … … … … [2] (c) Justify why Zac should not buy the used printer. … … … … … … [3] (d) Explain one action Zac can take to ensure that the negotiation with his parents is successful. Use an example from the case study to support your answer. … … … … … … [3] [Total: 10] * 0000800000006 * , , ĬÑĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊÝü¶þ× ĬëöóÍĦČĉÙõāÜÉģĆĪċĂ ĥÕµÕõõĥõĥĥÕąÅĕąÕĥÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 7
7 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 [Turn over Section B Answer all questions. 6 (a) Zac completed some research but did not complete a business plan. Analyse the benefits to Zac’s enterprise of producing a business plan. Use examples from the case study to support your answer. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [10] * 0000800000007 * , , ĬÓĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊÝú¶þ× ĬëõôÕĤĈùàăðččěÒĪûĂ ĥÕÅĕµĕąĕõĕąąÅõĥĕõÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 8
8 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 (b) Zac is not sure whether he should start the new leaflet enterprise. Evaluate whether the leaflet enterprise is likely to be a profitable enterprise for Zac. You should consider financial calculations in your answer. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … * 0000800000008 * , , ĬÑĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊßü¶Ā× ĬëõñÕĪöðÛý÷˝·ôúăĂ ĥĥĕĕõĕąµĕµõąąõÅĕĥÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 9
9 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 [Turn over … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [15] [Total: 25] * 0000800000009 * , , ĬÓĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊßú¶Ā× ĬëöòÍĠúĀÞûĊÓī¿èúóĂ ĥĥĥÕµõĥÕąÅåąąĕåÕõÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 10
10 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 BLANK PAGE * 0000800000010 * , , ĬÑĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊÞü¸þ× ĬëøñÐĬîĪÕĆð°ÓµĘÂûĂ ĥµõÕõĕåµµąõÅąÕÅĕÕÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 11
11 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 [Turn over 7 Now consider your enterprise project. (a) Enterprises compete in different ways, including: • effective customer service • marketing communications • pricing of goods and services • unique goods or services. Analyse the effectiveness of two of these ways in helping to gain customers in your enterprise project. Use examples to support your answer. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [10] * 0000800000011 * , , ĬÓĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊÞú¸þ× Ĭë÷òØĞòĚäôāùć½ÄÂċĂ ĥµąĕµõÅÕåõåÅąµåÕÅÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 12
12 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 (b) An entrepreneur will use many skills in the planning and operation of their enterprise. These include: • creativity • delegation • practical skills • time management. Evaluate which of these enterprise skills was the most important to the success of your enterprise project. Justify your choice, including why you rejected two of the other skills. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … * 0000800000012 * , , ĬÑĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊàü¸Ā× Ĭë÷óØĨĄď×îĊòåġĢÒóĂ ĥąÕĕõõÅõÅÕÕÅŵąÕÕÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 13
13 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [15] [Total: 25] * 0000800000013 * , , ĬÓĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊàú¸Ā× ĬëøôÐĢĀğâČ÷·ñę¶ÒăĂ ĥąåÕµĕåĕÕåąÅÅÕĥĕÅÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 14
14 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 BLANK PAGE * 0000800000014 * , , ĬÍĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊßùµĂ× Ĭë÷òÍĠóėÔþôĜÍIJĢċĂ ĥååĕõõĥµµµąąąĕÅÕĕÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 15
15 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 BLANK PAGE * 0000800000015 * , , ĬÏĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊßûµĂ× ĬëøñÕĪïħåüýÍĉ¼ĦĢûĂ ĥåÕÕµĕąÕåÅÕąąõåĕąÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Question paper, page 16
16 0454/12/O/N/25 © UCLES 2025 Permission to reproduce items where third‑party owned material protected by copyright is included has been sought and cleared where possible. Every reasonable effort has been made by the publisher (UCLES) to trace copyright holders, but if any items requiring clearance have unwittingly been included, the publisher will be pleased to make amends at the earliest possible opportunity. To avoid the issue of disclosure of answer‑related information to candidates, all copyright acknowledgements are reproduced online in the Cambridge Assessment International Education Copyright Acknowledgements Booklet. This is produced for each series of examinations and is freely available to download at www.cambridgeinternational.org after the live examination series. Cambridge Assessment International Education is part of Cambridge Assessment. Cambridge Assessment is the brand name of the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), which is a department of the University of Cambridge. BLANK PAGE * 0000800000016 * , , ĬÍĊ®Ġ´íÈõÏĪÅĊÝùµĄ× ĬëøôÕĤýĢÒöĆÖëĘÈòăĂ ĥĕąÕõĕąõÅĥåąÅõąĕĕÕ DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DO NOT WRITE IN THIS MARGIN DFD
Mark scheme, page 1
This document consists of 25 printed pages. © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 [Turn over Cambridge IGCSE™ ENTERPRISE 0454/12 Paper 1 Case Study October/November 2025 MARK SCHEME Maximum Mark: 100 Published This mark scheme is published as an aid to teachers and candidates, to indicate the requirements of the examination. It shows the basis on which Examiners were instructed to award marks. It does not indicate the details of the discussions that took place at an Examiners’ meeting before marking began, which would have considered the acceptability of alternative answers. Mark schemes should be read in conjunction with the question paper and the Principal Examiner Report for Teachers. Cambridge International will not enter into discussions about these mark schemes. Cambridge International is publishing the mark schemes for the October/November 2025 series for most Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International A and AS Level components, and some Cambridge O Level components.
Mark scheme, page 2
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 2 of 25 Generic Marking Principles These general marking principles must be applied by all examiners when marking candidate answers. They should be applied alon gside the specific content of the mark scheme or generic level descriptions for a question. Each question paper and mark scheme will also comply with these marking principles. GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 1: Marks must be awarded in line with: • the specific content of the mark scheme or the generic level descriptors for the question • the specific skills defined in the mark scheme or in the generic level descriptors for the question • the standard of response required by a candidate as exemplified by the standardisation scripts. GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 2: Marks awarded are always whole marks (not half marks, or other fractions). GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 3: Marks must be awarded positively: • marks are awarded for correct/valid answers, as defined in the mark scheme. However, credit is given for valid answers which go beyond the scope of the syllabus and mark scheme, referring to your Team Leader as appropriate • marks are awarded when candidates clearly demonstrate what they know and can do • marks are not deducted for errors • marks are not deducted for omissions • answers should only be judged on the quality of spelling, punctuation and grammar when these features are specifically assessed by the question as indicated by the mark scheme. The meaning, however, should be unambiguous. GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 4: Rules must be applied consistently, e.g. in situations where candidates have not followed instructions or in the application of generic level descriptors.
Mark scheme, page 3
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 3 of 25 GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 5: Marks should be awarded using the full range of marks defined in the mark scheme for the question (however; the use of the full mark range may be limited according to the quality of the candidate responses seen). GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 6: Marks awarded are based solely on the requirements as defined in the mark scheme. Marks should not be awarded with grade thre sholds or grade descriptors in mind.
Mark scheme, page 4
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 4 of 25 Social Science-Specific Marking Principles (for point-based marking) 1 Components using point-based marking: • Point marking is often used to reward knowledge, understanding and application of skills. We give credit where the candidate’s answer shows relevant knowledge, understanding and application of skills in answering the question. We do not give credit where the answer shows confusion. From this it follows that we: a DO credit answers which are worded differently from the mark scheme if they clearly convey the same meaning (unless the mark scheme requires a specific term) b DO credit alternative answers/examples which are not written in the mark scheme if they are correct c DO credit answers where candidates give more than one correct answer in one prompt/numbered/scaffolded space where extended writing is required rather than list-type answers. For example, questions that require n reasons (e.g. State two reasons …). d DO NOT credit answers simply for using a ‘key term’ unless that is all that is required. (Check for evidence it is understood and not used wrongly.) e DO NOT credit answers which are obviously self-contradicting or trying to cover all possibilities f DO NOT give further credit for what is effectively repetition of a correct point already credited unless the language itself is being tested. This applies equally to ‘mirror statements’ (i.e. polluted/not polluted). g DO NOT require spellings to be correct, unless this is part of the test. However spellings of syllabus terms must allow for clear and unambiguous separation from other syllabus terms with which they may be confused (e.g. Corrasion/Corrosion) 2 Presentation of mark scheme: • Slashes (/) or the word ‘or’ separate alternative ways of making the same point. • Semi colons (;) bullet points (•) or figures in brackets (1) separate different points. • Content in the answer column in brackets is for examiner information/context to clarify the marking but is not required to earn the mark (except Accounting syllabuses where they indicate negative numbers).
Mark scheme, page 5
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 5 of 25 3 Calculation questions: • The mark scheme will show the steps in the most likely correct method(s), the mark for each step, the correct answer(s) and the mark for each answer • If working/explanation is considered essential for full credit, this will be indicated in the question paper and in the mark scheme. In all other instances, the correct answer to a calculation should be given full credit, even if no supporting working is shown. • Where the candidate uses a valid method which is not covered by the mark scheme, award equivalent marks for reaching equivale nt stages. • Where an answer makes use of a candidate’s own incorrect figure from previous working, the ‘own figure rule’ applies: full marks will be given if a correct and complete method is used. Further guidance will be included in the mark scheme where necessary an d any exceptions to this general principle will be noted. 4 Annotation: • For point marking, ticks can be used to indicate correct answers and crosses can be used to indicate wrong answers. There is no direct relationship between ticks and marks. Ticks have no defined meaning for levels of response marking. • For levels of response marking, the level awarded should be annotated on the script. • Other annotations will be used by examiners as agreed during standardisation, and the meaning will be understood by all examiners who marked that paper.
Mark scheme, page 6
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 6 of 25 Annotations guidance for centres Examiners use a system of annotations as a shorthand for communicating their marking decisions to one another. Examiners are trained during the standardisation process on how and when to use annotations. The purpose of annotations is to inform the standard isation and monitoring processes and guide the supervising examiners when they are checking the work of examiners within their team. The meaning of annotations and how they are used is specific to each component and is understood by all examiners who mark the component. We publish annotations in our mark schemes to help centres understand the annotations they may see on copies of scripts. Note that there may not be a direct correlation between the number of annotations on a script and the mark awarded. Similarly, the use of an annotation may not be an indication of the quality of the response. The annotations listed below were available to examiners marking this component in this series. Annotations Annotation Meaning Correct point Development of point Incorrect point Level one/Level two/Level three/Level four Benefit of doubt Own figure rule Not answered question Repeat Indicates that the point has been notes, but no credit has been given Too vague
Mark scheme, page 7
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 7 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 1(a) State two marketing communications, other than leaflets. Each marketing communication [1] Answers may include: • television/radio/cinema • newspapers/magazines • posters/billboards • social media/online communication • word of mouth/announcements • sponsorship Accept business cards if seen 2 AO1 – 2 1(b) State two factors an enterprise would consider before choosing marketing communications. Each correct factor [1] Answers may include: • cost/finance available/budget/affordability • time • availability/or a practical example • suitability/type of product/or a practical example • (potential to reach) target audience/market other potentially relevant factors 2 AO1 – 2
Mark scheme, page 8
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 8 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 1(c) Explain one advantage of using leaflets to attract customers. Identification of advantage [1] Explanation showing understanding [+1] Answers may include: Advantages: • fairly cheap to produce • easy to produce • can be delivered to target audience • contain a lot of information • can be kept for further reference • tailored to the needs of the enterprise/appeal to market • may include coupons to collect market information. Example: Cheap to produce [1] can be printed from a home computer/printer [+1] 2 AO1 – 2
Mark scheme, page 9
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 9 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 1(d) Explain two ways laws and regulations could affect the marketing of an enterprise. Each point should be marked as follows: Identification of a way [1] Explanation showing understanding of effect or example [+1] Answers may include: • marketing materials must be truthful • cannot make untrue claims about other products/services • products must be fit for purpose • products must be safe • copyright/plagiarism • environmental legislation • bans on some products/images being advertised • limits on where advertising can take place. Example: Copyright [1] you cannot use other people’s products or ideas in your marketing [+1] 4 AO1 – 4
Mark scheme, page 10
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 10 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 2(a) Define the term stakeholder. Precise definition [2] Partial definition showing some understanding [1] An individual, group, organisation with an interest in the activities/operations/running of a business. [2] An individual, group, or organisation affected directly or indirectly by the activities/operations/running of a business. [2] An individual, group, or organisation with an interest in the business. [1] Someone interested in the business [1] Person directly or indirectly involved in a business [1] 2 AO1 – 2 2(b) Explain how one stakeholder was involved in your enterprise project. Use an example to support your answer. Identification of the stakeholder [1] Explanation showing applied understanding of involvement [+1] Example from own enterprise experience [1] Answers may include: • competitors • customers/students • parents/family • suppliers • shareholders • teachers/principal/school Example: The principal [1] was interested in our smoothies [1] because we were selling in school [+1] 3 AO1 – 1 AO2 – 1 AO3 – 1
Mark scheme, page 11
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 11 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 2(c) State two disadvantages of secondary research. Each correct disadvantage [1] Answers may include: • may be outdated • completed for a different purpose/irrelevant/not your (specific) market • may be unreliable/do not know how the information was collected/sample used • available to competitors/everyone. 2 AO1 – 2 2(d) Explain how one method of market research helped you to make a decision in your enterprise project. Use an example to support your answer. Identification of method /knowledge gained from market research [1] Explanation showing how it assists decision making [+1] Application to own enterprise project. [1] Example: Using online research to find competitors [1] helped us choose a competitive price [+1] for our t-shirts. [1] 3 AO1 – 1 AO2 – 1 AO3 – 1
Mark scheme, page 12
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 12 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 3(a) Using Table 1, calculate the total amount a customer would pay for the printing and delivery of 2000 leaflets. Show your working. 399.80 / 399.8 [4] cost of 100 leaflets = 14.99 + (0.05 100) = 19.99 20 = 399.80 [4] If answer is incorrect marks can be awarded for: • Cost of 100 leaflets = 14.99 + (0.05 100) = 19.99 [3] Or • 14.99 20 = 299.80 [2] • 5 cents 2000 = $100 [1] 4 AO1 – 2 AO2 – 2 3(b) Using Table 2, calculate, the number of leaflets Zac would need to print to break even if he charged $14.50 for every 100 leaflets. Show your working. 20 000 [4] 200 units of 100 leaflets [4] $20 000 [3] If answer is incorrect up to 3 marks can be awarded for: 200 / (0.145 – 0.135) OR 200 / ([14.50 / 100] – [13.50 / 100]) [3] Contribution = $0.01 [2] Price per leaflet = 0.145 [1] Cost per leaflet = 0.135 [1] Breakeven = Fixed cost/contribution (price minus variable cost) [1] As the question does not specify printing is included accept: 3082 [4] 200 / (0.199 – 0.135) = [3] or 200 / 0.0649 = [3] Contribution = 0.064 [2] Delivery charge per 100 leaflets = $5 [1] 4 AO1 – 1 AO2 – 2 AO3 – 1
Mark scheme, page 13
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 13 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 3(c) Explain one cost that Zac had forgotten to include in his research for his proposed enterprise. Identification of a cost not included in table 2 [1] Explanation/application to case study [+1] Answers may include: • His time/fuel/vehicle costs [1] for delivery/printing [+1] • Electricity/power [1] for the printer [+1] • Marketing/advertising for his enterprise [1] • Insurance/maintenance [1] in case the printer breaks [+1] • Rent/place [1] to his parents for the space needed for the printing stock/enterprise [+1] • Depreciation [1] for a new printer [+1] • Computer[1] to use when designing the leaflets [+1] 2 AO1 – 1 AO2 – 1
Mark scheme, page 14
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 14 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 4(a)(i) State the type of business organisation Zac’s leaflet enterprise will be. Sole trader [1] 1 AO1 – 2 4(a)(ii) Explain one disadvantage to Zac of operating as this type of business organisation. Use an example from the case study to support your answer. Identification of a disadvantage [1] Explanation showing understanding [+1] Application to case study [1] Answers may include: • Unlimited liability/personally liable for all debts • Unincorporated/business and owner are the same thing • Lack of/difficult to raise finance • Lack of skills/knowledge of all areas of enterprise. Example: Lack of finance [1] as the main source of finance is the owner’s savings [+1] and Zac does not have enough to pay $200 for a printer.[1] Difficult to raise finance [1] as a major source of finance is a bank loan [+1] and Zac is too young to qualify [1]. 3 AO1 – 1 AO2 – 1 AO3 – 1
Mark scheme, page 15
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 15 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 4(b)(i) Explain how Zac’s enterprise could be affected by: (i) advances in technology (ii) changes in taste Each point should be marked as follows: Identification of an effect [1] Explanation showing the effect on case study enterprise. [+1] advances in technology Answers may include: • easier for firms to produce their own documents • machinery becomes cheaper • machines become more productive/greater output • need to buy new equipment/services Example: Improvements in computer technology may make it easier for firms to produce their own documents [1] reducing the need for Zac’s service [+1] Zac/he can produce leaflets online/using a computer [1] improving his productivity [+1] 4 AO2 – 2 AO3 – 2 4(b)(ii) changes in taste Answers may include: • enterprises may need to update their marketing more frequently • new designs may be required • leaflets may become outdated. Example: Enterprises may need to update their marketing to show new products [1] increasing the demand for Zac’s service [+1] People use social media to advertise [1] therefore Zac’s leaflets are not required/demanded [+1]
Mark scheme, page 16
0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 16 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 4(c) Explain how you used one financial document in your enterprise project. Identification of financial document [1] Explanation showing how it was used [+1] Answers may include: • cashflow (forecast/statement) • income statement • budgets • receipts Example: Cashflow forecast [1] could show that there will be enough revenue to cover the costs of our cakes [+1] We used a budget [1] when negotiating for a loan with our parents [1] 2 AO1 – 1 AO2 – 1
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0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 17 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 5(a) State two sources of finance, other than loans Each correct source [1] Answers may include: • community funds • crowdfunding • grants • leasing/hire purchase • overdraft • retained profit • share capital • venture capital • personal savings/owners capital 2 AO1 – 2 5(b) Describe one way a bank can support enterprise, other than providing finance. Identification of a way [1] Explanation showing understanding [+1] Answers may include: • advice on completing forms for tax • help with business plans • overdraft facilities • store the enterprise money safely/open savings accounts • make payments for the enterprise Example: Banks offer advice [1] which will help the entrepreneur decide if the enterprise is worthwhile [+1] 2 AO1 – 2
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0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 18 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 5(c) Justify why Zac should not buy the used printer. Identification of a disadvantage [1] Explanation showing understanding [+1] Application to case study [1] Answers may include: • more likely to break down/have limited life span • unknown quality • no guarantee/warranty if it breaks Example: More likely to break down [1] the $200[1] would be wasted as he would need to buy another machine. [+1] 3 AO1 – 1 AO2 – 1 AO3 – 1 5(d) Explain one action Zac can take to ensure that the negotiation with his parents is successful. Use an example from the case study to support your answer. Identification of an action [1] Explanation showing understanding [+1] Application to case study [1] Answers may include: • complete research/provide evidence of costs or demand • plan the negotiation/his arguments • present financial documents/business plan • setting the (correct) tone/or a practical example. Example: Complete research [1] to prove the number of customers willing to pay [+1] for his printing services. [1] Produce a business plan [1] as evidence that his printing enterprise [1] will be possible and a success. [+1] 3 AO1 – 1 AO2 – 1 AO3 – 1
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0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 19 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 6(a) Zac completed some research but did not complete a business plan. Analyse the benefits to Zac’s enterprise of producing a business plan. Use examples from the case study to support your answer. [10] Knowledge may include: General content, benefits and purpose of a business plan e.g. • Provides essential information about the market • Identifies costs so can arrange finance in advance • Persuades financiers to invest • Produces targets so know if you have achieved them • helps with organisation so nothing is forgotten • helps to make business choices. Phrases which demonstrate some analysis may include: Helps him persuade his parents to lend him the money because he has produced financial records. Level Description Mark 3 Good analysis consistently applied to the case study Demonstrates good knowledge of concepts 8–10 2 Some analysis supported by good application to the case study Demonstrates knowledge of concepts 4–7 1 Limited application to the case study Demonstrates knowledge of concepts 1–3 0 No creditable response 0 10 The grade descriptions describe performance at the top of the band.
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0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 20 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 6(a) Phrases which demonstrate good analysis will include the impact of this document on the enterprise. These may include: Helps him persuade his parents to lend him the money because he has produced financial records. His parents are willing to give the loan because he can prove that the printing enterprise can earn enough to repay the loan. 6(b) Zac is not sure whether he should start the new leaflet enterprise. Evaluate whether the leaflet enterprise is likely to be a profitable enterprise for Zac. You should consider financial calculations in your answer. [15] Level Description Mark 4 Clear reasoned evaluation is present Good analysis applied consistently to the case study Demonstrates good knowledge of relevant concepts 12–15 3 Good analysis applied consistently to the case study is leading to evaluation Demonstrates knowledge of relevant concepts 8–11 2 Some application to the case study supported by some analysis Demonstrates knowledge of relevant concepts. 4–7 1 Limited application to the case study Demonstrates some knowledge of relevant concepts. 1–3 0 No creditable response 0 15 The grade descriptions describe performance at the top of the band.
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0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 21 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 6(b) Knowledge may include: • what is profit • risks or returns from starting an enterprise • niche market. Phrases which demonstrate some analysis may include: Zac lacked some enterprise skills that he would need to be profitable such as time management. Unlikely to sell more than 20 000 /200 leaflets to start making profit. Phrases which demonstrate good analysis will the likely impact of the choice on the enterprise. These may include: Zac lacked some enterprise skills that he would need to be profitable such as time management. This may mean he could not make enough leaflets to go beyond breakeven point. Evaluation may be shown by a two-sided approach considering the positive and negative aspects of the decision.
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0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 22 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 7(a) Enterprises compete in different ways, including: [10] • effective customer service • marketing communications • pricing of goods and services • unique goods or services. Analyse the effectiveness of two of these ways in helping to gain customers in your enterprise project. Use examples to support your answer. Knowledge may include: • description of methods of pricing/ marketing communications/customer service • general advantages and disadvantages of the methods. Level Description Mark 3 Good analysis consistently applied to their own enterprise experience. Demonstrates good knowledge of concepts 8–10 2 Some analysis supported by good application to their own enterprise experience. Demonstrates knowledge of concepts 4–7 1 Limited application to their own enterprise experience. Demonstrates knowledge of concepts 1–3 0 No creditable response 0 10 The grade descriptions describe performance at the top of the band.
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0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 23 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 7(a) Phrases which demonstrate some analysis may include: My marketing communications (posters) included a competition, a raffle which attracted attention. Unique product-we chose original designs for the clothes. Phrases which demonstrate good analysis will the impact of the document on the operation/success of the enterprise. These may include: My marketing communications (posters) included a competition which attracted attention and encouraged people to buy more to be entered. Unique product – we chose original designs for the clothes; we had no competition and therefore attracted lots of customers and revenue.
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0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 24 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 7(b) An entrepreneur will use many skills in the planning and operation of their enterprise. These include: • creativity • delegation • practical skills • time management. Evaluate which of these enterprise skills was the most important to the success of your enterprise project. Justify your choice, including why you rejected two of the other skills. [15] Knowledge may include: • Definition/explanation of any skill • Measures of success used in enterprise. Level Description Mark 4 Clear reasoned evaluation is present Good analysis applied consistently to their enterprise Demonstrates good knowledge of relevant concepts 12–15 3 Good analysis applied consistently to their enterprise is leading to evaluation Demonstrates knowledge of relevant concepts 8–11 2 Some application to their enterprise supported by some analysis Demonstrates knowledge of relevant concepts 4–7 1 Limited application to their enterprise Demonstrates some knowledge of relevant concepts 1–3 0 No creditable response 0 15 The grade descriptions describe performance at the top of the band.
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0454/12 Cambridge IGCSE – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED October/November 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 25 of 25 Question Answer Marks Guidance 7(b) Phrases which demonstrate some analysis may include: Time management was important as our baked goods could only be produced the day before the bake sale. Phrases which demonstrate good analysis will the impact of the skill on the enterprise. These may include: Time management was important as our baked goods could only be produced the day before the bake sale. By managing our time we were able to bake enough fresh cakes and have time for schoolwork. Evaluation may be shown by a two-sided approach considering the negative aspects of skills.
What you needed in this session
Cambridge’s own grade thresholds for 2025 Oct/Nov, Paper 1 · Variant 2. A higher threshold means an easier paper — the bar moves with how the cohort did.