Sample answers

Dionne wrote: Desk research is finding information that already exists, and field research is finding new information. Journals are one type of desk research, and questionnaires are one type of field research.

Examiner's note

Dionne's answer was basically correct, but lacked detail. It also looks as if she didn't read the question properly as she only gave one example of each type of research. If the question asks for two reasons then you will have to give two to get full marks.

Garth wrote: Desk research is finding information from sources that already exist, such as journals and reports. Field research is finding out new information that you specifically need. This could be through questionnaires or consumers trying out your product.

Examiner's note

Garth's answer showed he understood the terms, and his examples were appropriate. He could have included more detail, and would have gained more marks by using business terms in his answer (see Heather's answer).

Heather wrote: Desk research is getting data from existing secondary sources, such as journals and reports. Field research is finding out new information about your consumer's needs. This could be through a survey using questionnaires, or getting them to try out your products and recording their opinions.

Examiner's note

Heather's answer was very detailed, and she used the correct business terms. She showed that she understood the subject very well. She would get a very good mark.