The most popular method employed by pressure groups is

1. Analyze the question The question asks for the most popular method pressure groups use to achieve their aims. Pressure groups are organized groups that try to influence government policy without seeking to take power themselves.

2. Explain the concept Pressure groups (e.g., NLC, NBA, NMA, ASUU, Amnesty International) influence decisions through different methods:

• Lobbying: Direct contact and persuasion of lawmakers, ministers, and government officials, through meetings, memoranda, delegations, and presentations. It is peaceful, relatively cheap, and used by almost every type of group.
• Strikes: Withdrawal of labour. This is mostly used by trade unions and professional bodies, and usually as a last resort.
• Boycotts: Refusing to buy, use, or participate in something. It is used occasionally.
• Electioneering: Campaigning for candidates in elections. This is mainly the work of political parties, not pressure groups, since pressure groups do not seek to form the government.

3. Step-by-step solution

• Step 1: Remove electioneering (A). It is the function of political parties.
• Step 2: Strikes (B) and boycotts (D) are forceful or confrontational, and are used only when negotiation fails. They are not the most common.
• Step 3: Lobbying (C) is the most widely used method because it is peaceful, continuous, and available to every kind of pressure group, whether trade unions, professional associations, or business groups.

4. Answer The correct option is C. lobbying.

5. Exam tip Remember: "Lobby first, strike last." Pressure groups normally try dialogue and persuasion (lobbying) before resorting to strikes, boycotts, or demonstrations. If you see "most common/popular method" in a question on pressure groups, think lobbying.