english literature or psychology for a level?
So I most likely want to go into law in the future (im reallyy indecisive tho so this may change to something financial related or somthing else) and I've chosen maths, economics and english lit. I'm having second thoughts now tho because i'm not sure whether I want to take english lit or psych because psychology sounds quite intresting but I feel like english lit would be more useful.
(My exam boards are edexcel for english lit and aqa for psychology)
(My exam boards are edexcel for english lit and aqa for psychology)
Reply 1
How do you find English lit at gcse? (Liking, predicted grade, ease to revise etc)
How do you find biology at gcse/science generally? (Same criteria as above)
Have you read through the specs for each and looked at the individual topics/set texts?
How do you find biology at gcse/science generally? (Same criteria as above)
Have you read through the specs for each and looked at the individual topics/set texts?
Reply 2
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Original post
by DerDracologeHow do you find English lit at gcse? (Liking, predicted grade, ease to revise etc)
How do you find biology at gcse/science generally? (Same criteria as above)
Have you read through the specs for each and looked at the individual topics/set texts?
How do you find biology at gcse/science generally? (Same criteria as above)
Have you read through the specs for each and looked at the individual topics/set texts?
I like english at gcse level, i think i'm predicted a 7, it's ok to revise for
I find biology alright but the content isn't really my favourite, i'm predicted an 8 for it, i find it good to revise for
I've read through the specs asw and they both look intresting
Reply 3
i think you should go for psychology because even if you do something financial instead, psych can apply to that. also there is a unit in psych for forensics which might link to law
Reply 4
Original post
by milesmoralesI like english at gcse level, i think i'm predicted a 7, it's ok to revise for
I find biology alright but the content isn't really my favourite, i'm predicted an 8 for it, i find it good to revise for
I've read through the specs asw and they both look intresting
I find biology alright but the content isn't really my favourite, i'm predicted an 8 for it, i find it good to revise for
I've read through the specs asw and they both look intresting
Just based on that, id suggest going for psych.
This is purely because whilst in English lit youre clearly doing well and find it ok to revise for and likeable, biology seems to better fit your skills profile (shown by the 8 and ‘good’ to revise for). Psych has elements of it which require writing (i guess more like history so take that into account) but also factual and science-based content which is why the knowledge of science and how you work with those subjects is relevant. Some gcse biology content is needed for psych i believe however it’s obviously a different subject so could be framed quite differently. Just so you know, i take neither of these subjects so am basing this off the views of people i know taking these subjects- take it with a pinch of salt and trust any contradicting opinions of actual psych/eng lit students over me!
However that being said, the most sensible option here in my opinion (if the school allows it) would be to start year 12 with both subjects and then drop one after a few weeks once you’ve decided. Also you have plenty of time between now and results day to think more about this so you could put down psychology initially and then change your mind later… lots of people find a topic they love or hate in a subject or find the exams/revision get worse/better in the latter half of year 11 so that could really shape your decision.
Original post
by milesmoralesSo I most likely want to go into law in the future (im reallyy indecisive tho so this may change to something financial related or somthing else) and I've chosen maths, economics and english lit. I'm having second thoughts now tho because i'm not sure whether I want to take english lit or psych because psychology sounds quite intresting but I feel like english lit would be more useful.
(My exam boards are edexcel for english lit and aqa for psychology)
(My exam boards are edexcel for english lit and aqa for psychology)
Could you not start with 4, to give you chance to try both and see which one you like best. Then drop whichever of the 2 you like the least
Reply 6
I do alevel psychology and im really enjoying it (Got an A in my november mocks 
). I also have 2 friends who do both alevel psychology (aqa) and english lit (ocr) and they made it pretty clear that they enjoy psychology over english lit (this might be because of how brutal the exam board is)
). I also have 2 friends who do both alevel psychology (aqa) and english lit (ocr) and they made it pretty clear that they enjoy psychology over english lit (this might be because of how brutal the exam board is)Reply 7
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by nasheetohi think you should go for psychology because even if you do something financial instead, psych can apply to that. also there is a unit in psych for forensics which might link to law
yeahh I am leaning towards psych thank you!
Reply 8
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by liveloveleylaI do alevel psychology and im really enjoying it (Got an A in my november mocks ). I also have 2 friends who do both alevel psychology (aqa) and english lit (ocr) and they made it pretty clear that they enjoy psychology over english lit (this might be because of how brutal the exam board is)
). I also have 2 friends who do both alevel psychology (aqa) and english lit (ocr) and they made it pretty clear that they enjoy psychology over english lit (this might be because of how brutal the exam board is)an A is so good wddd! is psych alot of memorisation because i've heard it is
Reply 9
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by Emma:-)Could you not start with 4, to give you chance to try both and see which one you like best. Then drop whichever of the 2 you like the least
this is true thank you
Reply 10
hello with psychology, have a great look at the specification and the grade requirements. i do not to psychology but i have friends who study the subjects and they are studying bio psychology to a great level. this is basically biology paper 2 gcse with synapses; if you found this difficult and overwhelming, i’d recommend english. i study english and it is similar to GCSE except you have so much more free reign with your writing. there is no specification and all that is added is no structure for writing, critics, application of theories and deeper analysis. if you’re capable of doing so, i would recommend to choose english. i hope this helped ♡︎
with psychology, have a great look at the specification and the grade requirements. i do not to psychology but i have friends who study the subjects and they are studying bio psychology to a great level. this is basically biology paper 2 gcse with synapses; if you found this difficult and overwhelming, i’d recommend english. i study english and it is similar to GCSE except you have so much more free reign with your writing. there is no specification and all that is added is no structure for writing, critics, application of theories and deeper analysis. if you’re capable of doing so, i would recommend to choose english. i hope this helped ♡︎Reply 11
Original post
by milesmoralesan A is so good wddd! is psych alot of memorisation because i've heard it is
Thank you!!! When it comes to alevel psychology, you do have to know a lot of content especially for research/studies that are mentioned in the spec. However you can actually get away with it by waffling your way through if you follow the GRAVE structure (the structure that my teacher taught us). I know this works because i didnt know what to write for this 16 marker but used the GRAVE structure and got 14/16. There is also the GRENADE structure (but that is more used for A2 Psychology)
Reply 12
Hello, I study both A-Level English Literature and Psychology (albeit not for the same exam boards). I personally prefer Literature. Both would be useful to law or finance. Psychology is a LOT of memorisation, but if you find it interesting it's not too bad. English is less memorisation (though not completely devoid of it) but is more focused on your ability to craft a more personalised argument if that makes sense (as in psychology, yes you do evaluate studies and theories, but everyone kinda says the same thing because, for example, if a theory is applicable, it just is. However, in Literature, you craft your own arguments because there isn't one valid answer to a question). Maybe take what I say with a pinch of salt cause I'm in year 12, but I got the best in the year in the last psychology exam and have got consistent A*s in Literature so I suppose that's what I have to validate my points.
Original post
by milesmoralesthis is true thank you
Thats what my old 6th form used to suggest.
Reply 14
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Original post
by liveloveleylaThank you!!! When it comes to alevel psychology, you do have to know a lot of content especially for research/studies that are mentioned in the spec. However you can actually get away with it by waffling your way through if you follow the GRAVE structure (the structure that my teacher taught us). I know this works because i didnt know what to write for this 16 marker but used the GRAVE structure and got 14/16. There is also the GRENADE structure (but that is more used for A2 Psychology)
ahh ok tysm! i'll try and remember this structure if i do end up taking psychology
Reply 15
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by visions89Hello, I study both A-Level English Literature and Psychology (albeit not for the same exam boards). I personally prefer Literature. Both would be useful to law or finance. Psychology is a LOT of memorisation, but if you find it interesting it's not too bad. English is less memorisation (though not completely devoid of it) but is more focused on your ability to craft a more personalised argument if that makes sense (as in psychology, yes you do evaluate studies and theories, but everyone kinda says the same thing because, for example, if a theory is applicable, it just is. However, in Literature, you craft your own arguments because there isn't one valid answer to a question). Maybe take what I say with a pinch of salt cause I'm in year 12, but I got the best in the year in the last psychology exam and have got consistent A*s in Literature so I suppose that's what I have to validate my points.
well done on those results!! content wise which do you think is more intresting? since we have different exam boards, it may be a little different for me but yeah
Reply 16
Original post
by milesmoraleswell done on those results!! content wise which do you think is more intresting? since we have different exam boards, it may be a little different for me but yeah
I’d probably say English is more interesting because of the way that it reaches out into other disciplines (for example, we look at psychoanalytical perspectives which goes into psychology, we look at feminist or marxist perspectives that go into sociology and the context goes into history). That being said, psychology feels like its content is very applicable e.g. phobias, memory, therapies etc
Hello there!
Both English Literature and Psychology are excellent A-Level choices, and your decision should ultimately depend on your interests and long-term goals. Since you’re considering a future in law or potentially a financial career, here’s how each subject might align with your aspirations:
English Literature
English Literature is highly regarded for developing analytical and critical thinking skills, as well as the ability to construct coherent, well-argued essays. These skills are particularly valuable for law, where the ability to interpret complex texts, analyze arguments, and communicate effectively is essential. The subject also provides a strong foundation in reading comprehension and argumentation, which are directly transferable to legal studies. Additionally, English Literature is versatile and complements your other choices (Maths and Economics), offering a balance of quantitative and essay-based skills.
Psychology
Psychology is a fascinating and respected subject that combines scientific inquiry with an understanding of human behavior. It involves research, analysis, and essay writing, which can be useful in law, particularly in understanding human decision-making and behavior. Psychology can also be valuable if you decide to pursue a career in finance, as it provides insights into consumer behavior and organizational dynamics. However, it may not directly support the textual analysis and argumentative skills needed for law as effectively as English Literature.
If you’re drawn to Psychology because of your interest in the subject, it’s worth considering that personal interest can lead to better engagement and performance. However, if you prioritize a direct alignment with law and the development of skills specifically suited to that field, English Literature might be the more strategic choice. Both options are strong, so think about which subject excites you more and aligns best with your long-term aspirations. Either way, your current combination of subjects already positions you well for a range of career paths.
I hope this helps!
Good luck!
Kind regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador
Both English Literature and Psychology are excellent A-Level choices, and your decision should ultimately depend on your interests and long-term goals. Since you’re considering a future in law or potentially a financial career, here’s how each subject might align with your aspirations:
English Literature
English Literature is highly regarded for developing analytical and critical thinking skills, as well as the ability to construct coherent, well-argued essays. These skills are particularly valuable for law, where the ability to interpret complex texts, analyze arguments, and communicate effectively is essential. The subject also provides a strong foundation in reading comprehension and argumentation, which are directly transferable to legal studies. Additionally, English Literature is versatile and complements your other choices (Maths and Economics), offering a balance of quantitative and essay-based skills.
Psychology
Psychology is a fascinating and respected subject that combines scientific inquiry with an understanding of human behavior. It involves research, analysis, and essay writing, which can be useful in law, particularly in understanding human decision-making and behavior. Psychology can also be valuable if you decide to pursue a career in finance, as it provides insights into consumer behavior and organizational dynamics. However, it may not directly support the textual analysis and argumentative skills needed for law as effectively as English Literature.
•
For Law: English Literature is more traditionally aligned with the skills required for legal studies. Its focus on analysis, critical thinking, and writing makes it a preferred choice for aspiring lawyers.
•
For Finance or Broader Options: Both subjects can work well. Psychology may provide a unique perspective on behavior and decision-making, which can be applied in financial roles, while English Literature remains a solid choice for analytical skills.
I hope this helps!
Good luck!
Kind regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador
Reply 18
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Original post
by milesmoralesSo I most likely want to go into law in the future (im reallyy indecisive tho so this may change to something financial related or somthing else) and I've chosen maths, economics and english lit. I'm having second thoughts now tho because i'm not sure whether I want to take english lit or psych because psychology sounds quite intresting but I feel like english lit would be more useful.
(My exam boards are edexcel for english lit and aqa for psychology)
(My exam boards are edexcel for english lit and aqa for psychology)
Hi, I take both! I prefer literature as it's a lot of own interpretation and discussion. Psychology is much more systematic. I'd say if you excel in English, go for that as it shows good analytical skills, but if you want more of a content-based subject with SO MUCH helpful YouTube and online revision, go for that. I'd say Psychology is more straightforward in terms of revision, but lots of theories and ideas to learn. If you already have essay subjects, maybe don't add another with lit.
hope that helps!
Oh! And the textbook for psych is a lot easier compared to reading through masses of online essays and critics' comments.
(edited 1 year ago)
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