Modern History
A well developed and well supported argument rather than a narration of events, will bring success in Modern History. You should be prepared to argue your case in the exam.
Key Advice
Be very familiar with the syllabus requirements of each topic. Know all the key features and concepts. The questions are based on the features, concepts, and content points in the syllabus, so your responses should reflect them.
Look carefully at how questions are constructed. If a question requires you to answer 'To what extent', you need to formulate an argument, backed up by evidence. Avoid a narrative approach in your responses. Make a clear judgment about the question and demonstrate evidence of evaluation. Paraphrase quotes, when referring to evidence, rather than memorising large slabs of text. Answer the question in the paper, not the one you would have preferred.
Preparing for WWI, Core Study
Analysing sources is the key. Do this by considering perspective and reliability and addressing them directly in the question. Write the source you are referring to. A question may require you to explore sources and your own knowledge. Refer clearly to relevant sources and ensure that a good proportion of your response includes your OWN KNOWLEDGE about the topic.
Preparing for the Personalities Study
For the structured questions two parts, remember:
Part a) requires description, outline or narrative, such as the personality's life or biographical details.
Part b) requires a more analytical approach. This may involve an evaluation of the personality's contribution or legacy

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/national/education/hsc-ancient-history-modern-history-and-history-extension-20150614-ghbj8g.html#ixzz3hW0k7IoW

Economics
It looks like there are challenging times ahead for the Australian economy, with the end of the resources boom and global uncertainty. The challenge for HSC Economics students is to achieve a solid understanding of economic theory and the ability to integrate this with current issues and trends into exam responses.
In addition to being familiar with the syllabus, be acutely aware of:
Current economic issues affecting the Australian economy.
Global economic issues that may impact the Australian economy.
The effectiveness of economic policies being implemented by government in addressing these issues.
Key issues to be aware of include economic growth and quality of life, unemployment, inflation, external stability, distribution of income, and environmental sustainability. Understand hypothetical economic contexts.
Be aware that exam questions can be drawn from all parts of the syllabus including the 'learn to' statements which cover knowledge of economic issues and economic skills. The syllabus also requires students to have 'a case study of the influence of globalisation on an economy other than Australia' so make sure you have detailed knowledge of a case study for the exam.
Look regularly at reliable sources such as the Reserve Bank or major banks, where detailed information on the Australian economy is prepared by a senior economist.
It is vital that you also have a list of current statistics on key economic indicators such as inflation, unemployment and economic growth.
In Sections 1 and 2 of the exam paper, knowledge of terms and concepts, and the ability to make calculations using economic formulae is required.
Sections 2 and 3 of the paper may require you to interpret stimulus material provided by looking for the key economic issues and problems that need to be addressed.
In Sections 3 and 4 of the paper, you'll need to refer to