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IB How-To Guides

Step-by-step instructions for mastering essential IB skills. From writing your Extended Essay to acing your exams, follow our proven guides to succeed.

How to Choose Your Extended Essay Topic

Step-by-step guide to selecting the perfect EE topic that maximizes your chances of an A grade

1

Choose your subject

Select a subject you enjoy and are strong in. Your EE should be in one of your IB subjects where you have genuine interest.

2

Brainstorm topics

List 5-10 potential topics. Consider areas that sparked your curiosity in class, topics you've researched independently, or real-world problems you want to explore.

3

Narrow your focus

Eliminate topics that are too broad. Your topic must be narrow enough to explore thoroughly in 4000 words but broad enough for research.

4

Check resources

Verify sufficient academic sources exist. Avoid obscure topics with limited research. Use Google Scholar, JSTOR, and your school library.

5

Formulate a question

Craft a focused, arguable research question. It should be analytical rather than factual, allowing for discussion rather than simple answers.

6

Consult your supervisor

Meet with your EE supervisor to get feedback on your topic and question. They can help assess feasibility and suggest improvements.

💡 Pro Tip

Don't rush through these steps. Each one is crucial for success. Take time with each phase, and don't hesitate to ask teachers or peers for feedback along the way.

How to Write an IB Math Internal Assessment

Complete guide to crafting a high-scoring Mathematics IA from topic selection to final submission

1

Choose a topic

Select a topic that interests you and allows for mathematical exploration. Real-world applications, modeling problems, or investigating mathematical patterns work well.

2

Formulate your research question

Create a clear, focused question that can be explored mathematically. Ensure it's specific enough for deep analysis.

3

Conduct background research

Research the mathematical concepts you'll use. Understand formulas, theorems, and methods relevant to your investigation.

4

Collect/generate data

Gather data through experimentation, modeling, or use existing datasets. Ensure sufficient data points for meaningful analysis.

5

Perform mathematical analysis

Apply appropriate mathematical techniques. Show calculations, graphs, and statistical analysis. Use technology like calculators or software effectively.

6

Reflect and evaluate

Discuss the validity of your methods, limitations of your analysis, and what you learned. Connect to broader mathematical concepts.

7

Write your report

Structure your IA clearly: introduction, methodology, results, analysis, conclusion, and evaluation. Use proper mathematical notation and citation.

💡 Pro Tip

Don't rush through these steps. Each one is crucial for success. Take time with each phase, and don't hesitate to ask teachers or peers for feedback along the way.

How to Create a 6-Week IB Revision Plan

Strategic guide to structuring your final exam preparation for maximum effectiveness

1

Assess your situation

List all subjects, identify your weakest areas, and check exam dates. Be honest about where you need the most work.

2

Gather materials

Collect all notes, past papers, textbooks, and study guides. Organize them by subject and topic for easy access.

3

Create a schedule

Allocate time based on exam dates and subject difficulty. Prioritize weak areas but maintain all subjects. Include breaks and review sessions.

4

Week 1-2: Content review

Focus on reviewing key concepts and formulas. Create summary sheets, mind maps, and flashcards. Identify gaps in your understanding.

5

Week 3-4: Practice questions

Work through topic-specific practice questions. Focus on application and problem-solving. Mark schemes help you understand what examiners want.

6

Week 5: Mock exams

Complete full past papers under timed conditions. Practice pacing and exam technique. Review mistakes thoroughly.

7

Week 6: Final revision

Review your weakest areas, practice command terms, consolidate key points. Get enough sleep and maintain balance. Stay confident!

💡 Pro Tip

Don't rush through these steps. Each one is crucial for success. Take time with each phase, and don't hesitate to ask teachers or peers for feedback along the way.

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