Which of the following is true of an economic model?

• A. It cannot be used to make predictions about economic behavior.
• B. It simplifies reality to help analyze economic situations.
• C. It includes every detail of the real-world economy.
• D. It always provides normative statements about what should be done.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that an economic model is a simplified representation of reality designed to analyze economic situations and relationships.
2. Recognize that economic models do not include every detail of the real-world economy because including all details would make the model too complex and less useful.
3. Know that economic models are used to make predictions about economic behavior by focusing on key variables and their interactions.
4. Distinguish between positive statements (describing what is) and normative statements (prescribing what should be done); economic models primarily provide positive analysis, not normative judgments.
5. Conclude that the true statement about economic models is that they simplify reality to help analyze economic situations.