HSC Business Studies — Topic 1
SWOT Analysis — Flashcards & Quiz
SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool used to evaluate a business by identifying its Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. In HSC Business Studies Topic 1 (Operations), you learn to apply SWOT to real business case studies, distinguishing between internal factors (strengths and weaknesses) and external factors (opportunities and threats). Exam questions commonly present a business scenario and ask you to conduct a SWOT analysis, then recommend strategies that leverage strengths and opportunities while addressing weaknesses and threats.
Sample Flashcards
Q1: What does SWOT stand for?
Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. It is a strategic planning framework used to evaluate a business\u2019s internal and external environment.
Q2: Which parts of SWOT are internal factors and which are external?
Strengths and Weaknesses are internal factors (within the business\u2019s control). Opportunities and Threats are external factors (outside the business\u2019s control, arising from the market or wider environment).
Q3: Give an example of a business strength and a business weakness.
Strength: strong brand recognition or skilled workforce. Weakness: high staff turnover, outdated technology, or poor cash flow management.
Q4: How do businesses use SWOT analysis in strategic planning?
Businesses use SWOT to match internal strengths with external opportunities, address weaknesses, and develop contingency plans for threats. It helps prioritise strategic actions and resource allocation.
Q5: What is the difference between an opportunity and a threat in SWOT?
An opportunity is a favourable external condition a business can exploit (e.g., growing market segment). A threat is an unfavourable external condition that could harm the business (e.g., new competitor, regulatory changes).
Sample Quiz Questions
Q1: A new competitor entering the market would be classified as which element of SWOT?
Answer: Threat
New competitors are external factors outside the business\u2019s control that could reduce market share and revenue.
Q2: Which SWOT element describes an internal characteristic that places the business at a disadvantage?
Answer: Weakness
Weaknesses are internal factors within the business that hinder performance, such as lack of skilled staff or poor financial management.
Q3: A business discovers consumer trends shifting towards sustainable products. This is an example of:
Answer: Opportunity
Changing consumer preferences toward sustainability is an external trend the business can capitalise on by developing eco-friendly products.
Last updated: March 2026 · 5 flashcards · 3 quiz questions