VCE Psychology: Master the 10-Mark Extended Response

For many VCE Psychology students, the 10-mark extended response can feel like the most intimidating part of the exam. It requires a combination of psychological knowledge, critical thinking, and clear communication, all under strict time pressure. On top of that, exam nerves can make it difficult to recall even the most familiar content.

The good news is that with the right approach, structure, and mindset, this type of question becomes an opportunity to demonstrate your strengths.

In this guide, we will break down how to approach the 10-mark extended response and share mindset and exam stress-management strategies to help you stay calm and perform at your best.

Part 1: How to Approach the 10-Mark Extended Response

1. Understand the Command Word

Each extended response question begins with a command word that shapes your response. Recognising and responding to the command word is essential to writing a targeted and relevant answer.

Common command words include:

Explain: Describe the reasons or mechanisms behind a concept.
Evaluate: Discuss strengths and limitations and provide a judgment supported by evidence.
Compare: Identify similarities and differences between theories, studies, or concepts.
Discuss: Present a balanced argument that includes multiple perspectives.

Exam Tip: Underline the command word in the question to stay focused on what is being asked. For example, “Evaluate the role of neurotransmitters in depression” means you need to go beyond definitions and provide both knowledge and critical analysis.

2. Plan Before You Write

Taking just one or two minutes to plan can make your response more focused and coherent. It helps prevent repetition, missed points, or unclear structure.

Quick planning steps:

Identify the key theories or concepts the question is asking about.
Choose one or two studies to support each concept.
Map out your paragraphs, ensuring each covers a separate point.
Note any counterpoints you'll include if the command word requires evaluation or discussion.
Include a short conclusion that summarises your argument.

Even a simple plan can provide direction and clarity.

3. Use PEEL for Paragraph Structure

PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explain, Link) is a reliable structure for clear, well-developed paragraphs.

P - Point: Start with a clear idea or argument.
E - Evidence: Support it using a relevant study, theory, or example.
E - Explain: Show how this evidence addresses the question.
L - Link: Connect your point to the next idea or to your conclusion.

Example:

Question: Evaluate the effectiveness of CBT in treating depression.

Point: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is considered effective for treating depression.
Evidence: Beck (1979) found that CBT helps patients challenge negative thought patterns, which leads to improved mood.
Explain: This supports the idea that CBT targets cognitive distortions, a core aspect of depression.
Link: However, its effectiveness may vary depending on the individual, suggesting that alternative treatments may be necessary in some cases.

4. Include Key Studies and Theories

Examiners are looking for evidence that you understand and can apply psychological studies and theories. To show this, aim to:

Include at least one or two relevant studies in each paragraph.
Briefly describe the study's method, findings, and relevance to the question. What was found and why does it matter to the question?
Avoid adding too many details. Clarity is more important than volume.

Revision Tip: During revision, build a "study bank" where you group studies by topic (e.g. learning, mental health, biopsychology). This makes it easier to recall them quickly during the exam.

5. Conclude Effectively

Finish your response with a clear, concise conclusion. Summarise your key points in one or two sentences and restate your main argument to the command word. This shows examiners that your response is complete and well thought out.

Part 2: Mindset and Stress Management During Exam Time

1. Shift from Panic to Preparation

Feeling stressed is natural, but letting it take over can block your ability to think clearly. Use positive self-talk to stay grounded:

“I’ve prepared for this.”
“I can break this question into smaller steps.”
“I will focus on what I know and take it one step at a time.”

Break down the task into four manageable steps: Read → Plan → Write → Review. This helps reduce anxiety and gives you a sense of control.

2. Use Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques

Mindfulness techniques are useful for calming the mind and improving concentration during high-stress moments.

Try the following techniques before or during your exam:

Box breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 6. Repeat a few times.
Visualisation: Picture yourself confidently reading, planning, and writing your response.

These practices help slow your heart rate and create a calm mental space for focused thinking.

3. Practise Under Exam Conditions

Practising under timed conditions helps you get used to the pressure and develop confidence in your approach. It can make all the difference by helping train your mind for the exam so you are more comfortable once you are finally there.

Answer past 10-mark questions using full PEEL paragraphs.
Time yourself and aim to complete each within 10 to 12 minutes.
Review your answers: Did you meet the question’s requirements? Was your explanation clear?

The more you practise, the more comfortable and capable you will feel during the actual exam.

4. Take Care of Your Body and Mind

Physical wellbeing directly impacts mental performance. Take care of your body in the lead-up to and on the day of the exam.

Sleep: Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night.
Nutrition: Eat balanced meals and avoid heavy or high-sugar foods that may lead to energy crashes.
Hydration: Drink water regularly to support brain function.
Exercise: Light physical activity, such as walking, can reduce stress and improve focus.

Consistent habits like these can improve your ability to stay calm and think clearly during exams.

5. Develop a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset can help you stay calm, focused, and resilient in the face of challenges.

Instead of thinking, “I need to get this perfect,” try, “I’ll apply what I know and do my best.”
View mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures.
Focus on the process—how well you plan, structure, and support your points—rather than obsessing over getting a perfect score.

This mindset encourages flexibility, problem-solving, and confidence under pressure.

6. Quick Exam-Day Tips

Read each question twice to avoid misinterpretation.
Underline key words such as command words, concepts, or theories.
Spend about 10 to 12 minutes on each 10-mark response.
Write clearly and use paragraphs to organise your answer.
Use any extra time to review and make small improvements.

FAQs

How long should a 10-mark VCE Psychology response be?

Aim for 3–4 well-developed PEEL paragraphs plus a brief conclusion, typically written in about 10–12 minutes.

Do I need to include evidence/studies to get full marks?

Yes—accurate, relevant studies or theory applied to the question are expected for top-band responses.

What if the question says ‘Evaluate’ or ‘Discuss’?

Address the command: include strengths and limitations or multiple perspectives, then finish with a justified overall judgement. Avoid generic responses.

How many minutes should I plan for?

Spend about 60–90 seconds planning; the return in clarity and relevance is worth it.

Is the 10-mark question marked holistically?

Yes—assessors use a holistic rubric for the 10-marker in Section B. They judge the overall quality of your response rather than awarding marks to specific phrases.

Final Thoughts

The 10-mark extended response is not just a test of memory. It is a chance to show your ability to think critically, organise ideas, and communicate effectively. With the right preparation, consistent practice, and a strong mindset, you can approach it with confidence.

Remember: Preparation + Practice + Mindset = Success

If you found these tips helpful, I’d personally love to support you as your tutor this year. You can view my profile on Learnmate and contact me to discuss tutoring. You can also read my other blog, How to memorise content-heavy VCE Psychology topics, for practical mnemonics and memory strategies that pair perfectly with extended-response prep.

Alternatively, you can also engage other tutors on Learnmate to help you refine your VCE Psychology skills, boost your confidence, and provide guidance tailored to your specific needs. Connect with an expert VCE Psychology tutor on Learnmate and take your understanding and SAQ preparation to the next level!