WAEC Past Questions

WAEC Commerce 2019
Questions & Answers

40 questions · Correct answers highlighted · 40 with explanations

40 Total Questions
2019 Exam Year
40 With Explanations
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1
Question 1 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

What is the key role of intermediaries in commerce?

A. Producing raw materials
B. Bridging producers and consumers
C. Consuming finished goods
D. Extracting natural resources
Explanation

Intermediaries, such as wholesalers and retailers, play a crucial role in commerce by facilitating the efficient distribution of goods and services from producers to end consumers, thereby bridging the gap between production and consumption and ensuring smooth flow in the supply chain.

2
Question 2 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following describes the liability of partners in a general partnership?

A. Limited to their investment
B. Unlimited and joint
C. Shared only with creditors
D. Exempt from business debts
Explanation

In a general partnership, all partners have unlimited liability, meaning they are personally responsible for the full amount of the business's debts, and this liability is joint and several, allowing creditors to pursue any or all partners for the entire debt.

3
Question 3 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The document that details a company’s internal management rules is called?

A. Certificate of Incorporation
B. Articles of Association
C. Prospectus
D. Deed of Partnership
Explanation

The Articles of Association is a legal document that outlines the rules and regulations for the internal management of a company, including procedures for meetings, directors' powers, and shareholders' rights, serving as the company's constitution.

4
Question 4 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a source of internal finance for a business?

A. Bank loans
B. Retained profits
C. Trade credit
D. Mortgage
Explanation

Retained profits, also known as retained earnings, represent the portion of net income not distributed as dividends but reinvested in the business, making it an internal source of finance that does not involve external parties or interest payments.

5
Question 5 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The process of analyzing consumer behavior to improve sales is known as?

A. Distribution
B. Market research
C. Production
D. Warehousing
Explanation

Market research involves systematically gathering, recording, and analyzing data about consumers' preferences, behaviors, and needs to inform marketing strategies, product development, and sales techniques, ultimately aiming to increase sales and customer satisfaction.

6
Question 6 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a non-banking financial institution?

A. Commercial bank
B. Insurance company
C. Central bank
D. Savings bank
Explanation

Insurance companies are non-banking financial institutions that provide risk management services by pooling risks and offering protection against uncertainties like death, accidents, or property damage, without accepting deposits or providing banking services.

7
Question 7 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

A document that serves as a legal tender for payment is called?

A. Receipt
B. Cheque
C. Invoice
D. Waybill
Explanation

A cheque is a written order directing a bank to pay a specified sum from the drawer's account to the payee, functioning as a negotiable instrument and legal means of payment that is widely accepted as tender when honored.

8
Question 8 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which market structure is dominated by a few large firms?

A. Perfect competition
B. Monopoly
C. Oligopoly
D. Monopsony
Explanation

Oligopoly is a market structure where a small number of large firms dominate the industry, leading to interdependent decision-making, high barriers to entry, and potential for collusion or price leadership among competitors.

9
Question 9 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The term “FAS” in international trade stands for?

A. Free Alongside Ship
B. Freight and Storage
C. Free Access Ship
D. Freight Alongside Storage
Explanation

Free Alongside Ship (FAS) is an Incoterm where the seller delivers the goods alongside the buyer's vessel at the named port of shipment, after which the risk transfers to the buyer, including loading costs borne by the buyer.

10
Question 10 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a risk assumed by a wholesaler?

A. Consumer credit risk
B. Price fluctuation risk
C. Retail markup risk
D. Production cost risk
Explanation

Wholesalers purchase goods in bulk and hold inventory, exposing them to price fluctuation risk where changes in market prices can lead to losses if the value of stock decreases before resale.

11
Question 11 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

A business form where ownership is shared equally among members is called?

A. Joint stock company
B. Cooperative society
C. Public corporation
D. Sole proprietorship
Explanation

A cooperative society is a voluntary association where members own and democratically control the business, sharing profits and benefits equally based on their participation rather than capital contribution.

12
Question 12 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a limitation of personal selling?

A. Builds strong relationships
B. High cost per contact
C. Increases brand awareness
D. Covers large audiences
Explanation

Personal selling involves direct interaction with customers, which is resource-intensive, resulting in a high cost per contact compared to mass advertising methods, limiting its scalability for large audiences.

13
Question 13 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The body responsible for drug regulation in Nigeria is?

A. SON
B. NAFDAC
C. CPC
D. CAC
Explanation

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is the regulatory body in Nigeria responsible for ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of drugs, food, and other regulated products through registration, inspection, and enforcement.

14
Question 14 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a feature of a standing order?

A. One-time payment
B. Recurring automatic transfer
C. Requires manual approval
D. Limited to cash withdrawals
Explanation

A standing order is an automated banking instruction where a fixed amount is transferred from the account holder's account to another account at regular intervals, such as monthly, without needing manual initiation each time.

15
Question 15 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The process of assembling goods for shipment is called?

A. Consolidation
B. Deconsolidation
C. Fragmentation
D. Segmentation
Explanation

Consolidation in logistics involves combining multiple small shipments from different shippers into a single larger shipment to optimize transportation costs and efficiency, often used in less-than-truckload shipping.

16
Question 16 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a type of insurance covering employee theft?

A. Fidelity guarantee
B. Life policy
C. Marine policy
D. Motor policy
Explanation

Fidelity guarantee insurance, also known as fidelity bond, protects the employer against financial losses caused by dishonest acts of employees, such as theft or fraud, ensuring reimbursement for proven losses.

17
Question 17 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The rulebook that guides a public corporation’s operations is called?

A. Act of Parliament
B. Bylaws
C. Partnership agreement
D. Share certificate
Explanation

Public corporations in Nigeria are established and governed by an Act of Parliament, which serves as the primary legal framework outlining their objectives, powers, structure, and operational guidelines.

18
Question 18 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a characteristic of a joint venture?

A. Single ownership
B. Temporary collaboration
C. Unlimited liability
D. Public listing
Explanation

A joint venture is a business arrangement where two or more parties collaborate on a specific project or venture for a limited period, pooling resources while maintaining their separate identities, often to share risks and expertise.

19
Question 19 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Goods that last for a short period after purchase are known as?

A. Durable goods
B. Non-durable goods
C. Capital goods
D. Industrial goods
Explanation

Non-durable goods are consumable items that have a short lifespan and are used up quickly after purchase, such as food, beverages, and toiletries, contrasting with durable goods that last longer.

20
Question 20 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

A document that lists goods for customs clearance is called?

A. Bill of entry
B. Consignment note
C. Proforma invoice
D. Credit note
Explanation

The bill of entry is a customs document submitted by importers detailing the goods being imported, their value, quantity, and origin, used for assessing duties and facilitating clearance through customs.

21
Question 21 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The primary function of a consumers’ association is to?

A. Maximize profits
B. Protect buyer rights
C. Regulate production
D. Issue shares
Explanation

Consumers' associations, such as consumer protection agencies, primarily work to safeguard the rights and interests of buyers by advocating for fair trade practices, resolving disputes, and educating on product safety and quality.

22
Question 22 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a feature of a vending machine retailer?

A. Offers credit sales
B. Operates 24/7
C. Provides personal advice
D. Sells bulk quantities
Explanation

Vending machine retailers are automated sales devices that dispense products upon payment, allowing continuous operation around the clock without the need for staff, providing convenience to customers at any time.

23
Question 23 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

A document that adjusts an invoice for errors is called?

A. Debit note
B. Credit note
C. Receipt
D. Statement of account
Explanation

A credit note is issued by a seller to a buyer to correct an overcharge or error on an invoice, reducing the amount owed, and serves as a formal adjustment in accounting records.

24
Question 24 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a function of a development bank?

A. Short-term lending
B. Long-term project financing
C. Daily deposits
D. Currency exchange
Explanation

Development banks specialize in providing long-term financing for large-scale projects, infrastructure, and economic development initiatives, often with favorable terms to promote growth in key sectors.

25
Question 25 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The term “stock control” refers to?

A. Managing inventory levels
B. Setting sales targets
C. Promoting products
D. Pricing goods
Explanation

Stock control, or inventory management, involves monitoring and regulating the levels of goods in stock to ensure availability for sales, minimize holding costs, and prevent overstocking or stockouts.

26
Question 26 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a type of operational risk?

A. Currency risk
B. Equipment failure
C. Interest rate risk
D. Credit risk
Explanation

Operational risk encompasses losses resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes, people, systems, or external events, such as equipment failure disrupting business operations.

27
Question 27 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

A market where buyers outnumber sellers significantly is called?

A. Seller’s market
B. Buyer’s market
C. Black market
D. Grey market
Explanation

In a seller's market, demand exceeds supply, with more buyers competing for fewer goods from sellers, allowing sellers to dictate prices and terms due to the imbalance.

28
Question 28 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a function of a bill of exchange?

A. Proof of storage
B. Deferred payment instrument
C. Goods receipt
D. Transport contract
Explanation

A bill of exchange is a negotiable instrument used in trade to defer payment, where the drawer orders the drawee to pay a specified sum to the payee at a future date, facilitating credit transactions.

29
Question 29 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The term “demurrage” refers to?

A. Extra charge for delayed cargo
B. Cost of insurance
C. Freight rebate
D. Storage fee
Explanation

Demurrage is a charge imposed by shipping lines or ports for the delay in returning empty containers or unloading cargo beyond the allowed free time, compensating for the immobilization of equipment.

30
Question 30 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a feature of an e-business?

A. Requires physical stores
B. Operates online platforms
C. Limits to local markets
D. No need for technology
Explanation

E-business, or electronic business, leverages digital platforms and the internet to conduct transactions, manage operations, and reach global customers without reliance on physical locations.

31
Question 31 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

A document that tracks goods in transit is called?

A. Consignment note
B. Goods received note
C. Manifest
D. Endorsement
Explanation

A consignment note, also known as a consignment bill, is a transport document that accompanies goods during shipment, detailing the sender, receiver, contents, and terms to track and ensure delivery.

32
Question 32 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is an advantage of a franchise?

A. High startup risks
B. Proven business model
C. Complete independence
D. Unlimited liability
Explanation

Franchising provides franchisees with a proven business model, including established branding, operational systems, and marketing support, reducing the risks associated with starting a new business from scratch.

33
Question 33 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The term used to describe unsellable inventory due to overstocking is?

A. Stockout
B. Overtrading
C. Understocking
D. Dead stock
Explanation

Dead stock refers to inventory that has become unsellable or obsolete due to overstocking, changes in demand, or expiration, tying up capital and requiring write-offs or disposal.

34
Question 34 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a role of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission?

A. Regulating imports
B. Attracting foreign investment
C. Collecting taxes
D. Issuing passports
Explanation

The Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) is tasked with promoting and facilitating sustainable investment inflows into Nigeria by providing advisory services, incentives, and a one-stop investment center for foreign investors.

35
Question 35 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

A business that deals in intangible products like education is part of the?

A. Primary sector
B. Secondary sector
C. Tertiary sector
D. Quaternary sector
Explanation

The tertiary sector, or service sector, encompasses businesses providing intangible goods and services such as education, healthcare, and finance, focusing on the delivery of expertise and support rather than physical production.

36
Question 36 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a form of indirect promotion?

A. Door-to-door sales
B. Trade exhibitions
C. Demonstrations
D. Catalogues
Explanation

Catalogues are a form of indirect promotion as they allow potential customers to browse products remotely without direct interaction, serving as a non-personal advertising tool to generate interest and leads.

37
Question 37 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

The term “break-even point” refers to?

A. Maximum profit level
B. Point where revenue equals costs
C. Minimum sales target
D. Total asset value
Explanation

The break-even point is the production or sales level at which total revenue exactly covers total costs, resulting in neither profit nor loss, serving as a key metric for assessing business viability.

38
Question 38 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a feature of a limited liability partnership?

A. Unlimited personal liability
B. Limited liability for partners
C. Public ownership
D. No profit sharing
Explanation

A limited liability partnership (LLP) combines the flexibility of a partnership with limited liability protection, where partners' personal assets are shielded from business debts, except in cases of personal negligence.

39
Question 39 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

A document that summarizes account transactions over a period is called?

A. Ledger
B. Statement of account
C. Journal
D. Trial balance
Explanation

A statement of account is a periodic summary sent by a seller or bank to a customer, detailing all transactions, balances, and outstanding amounts over a specific period for reconciliation purposes.

40
Question 40 of 40
WAEC · Commerce · 2019

Which of the following is a function of the production department?

A. Market analysis
B. Converting inputs to outputs
C. Financial auditing
D. Staff training
Explanation

The production department is responsible for transforming raw materials and inputs into finished goods or services through manufacturing processes, ensuring efficiency, quality, and timely output to meet demand.

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