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International Baccalaureate (IB)

IB students around the globe fear writing the Extended Essay, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress! In this article, I'll get you excited about writing your Extended Essay and provide you with the resources you need to get an A on it.

If you're reading this article, I'm going to assume you're an IB student getting ready to write your Extended Essay. If you're looking at this as a potential future IB student, I recommend reading our introductory IB articles first, including our guide to what the IB program is and our full coverage of the IB curriculum .

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I myself am a recipient of an IB Diploma, and I happened to receive an A on my IB Extended Essay. Don't believe me? The proof is in the IBO pudding:

If you're confused by what this report means, EE is short for Extended Essay , and English A1 is the subject that my Extended Essay topic coordinated with. In layman's terms, my IB Diploma was graded in May 2010, I wrote my Extended Essay in the English A1 category, and I received an A grade on it.

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Extended Essay, or EE , is a mini-thesis you write under the supervision of an IB advisor (an IB teacher at your school), which counts toward your IB Diploma (learn more about the major IB Diploma requirements in our guide) . I will explain exactly how the EE affects your Diploma later in this article.

For the Extended Essay, you will choose a research question as a topic, conduct the research independently, then write an essay on your findings . The essay itself is a long one—although there's a cap of 4,000 words, most successful essays get very close to this limit.

Keep in mind that the IB requires this essay to be a "formal piece of academic writing," meaning you'll have to do outside research and cite additional sources.

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

• A title page
• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

Additionally, your research topic must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

• Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
• Group 2: Language Acquisition
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts

Once you figure out your category and have identified a potential research topic, it's time to pick your advisor, who is normally an IB teacher at your school (though you can also find one online ). This person will help direct your research, and they'll conduct the reflection sessions you'll have to do as part of your Extended Essay.

As of 2018, the IB requires a "reflection process" as part of your EE supervision process. To fulfill this requirement, you have to meet at least three times with your supervisor in what the IB calls "reflection sessions." These meetings are not only mandatory but are also part of the formal assessment of the EE and your research methods.

According to the IB, the purpose of these meetings is to "provide an opportunity for students to reflect on their engagement with the research process." Basically, these meetings give your supervisor the opportunity to offer feedback, push you to think differently, and encourage you to evaluate your research process.

The final reflection session is called the viva voce, and it's a short 10- to 15-minute interview between you and your advisor. This happens at the very end of the EE process, and it's designed to help your advisor write their report, which factors into your EE grade.

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

• A check on plagiarism and malpractice
• Your reflection on your project's successes and difficulties
• Your reflection on what you've learned during the EE process

Your completed Extended Essay, along with your supervisor's report, will then be sent to the IB to be graded. We'll cover the assessment criteria in just a moment.

We'll help you learn how to have those "lightbulb" moments...even on test day!  

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

You can technically write about anything, so long as it falls within one of the approved categories listed above.

It's best to choose a topic that matches one of the IB courses , (such as Theatre, Film, Spanish, French, Math, Biology, etc.), which shouldn't be difficult because there are so many class subjects.

Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay:

• Biology: The Effect of Age and Gender on the Photoreceptor Cells in the Human Retina
• Chemistry: How Does Reflux Time Affect the Yield and Purity of Ethyl Aminobenzoate (Benzocaine), and How Effective is Recrystallisation as a Purification Technique for This Compound?
• English: An Exploration of Jane Austen's Use of the Outdoors in Emma
• Geography: The Effect of Location on the Educational Attainment of Indigenous Secondary Students in Queensland, Australia
• Math: Alhazen's Billiard Problem
• Visual Arts: Can Luc Tuymans Be Classified as a Political Painter?

You can see from how varied the topics are that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to picking a topic . So how do you pick when the options are limitless?

How to Write a Stellar IB Extended Essay: 6 Essential Tips

Below are six key tips to keep in mind as you work on your Extended Essay for the IB DP. Follow these and you're sure to get an A!

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

You can't expect to write a compelling essay if you're not a fan of the topic on which you're writing. For example, I just love British theatre and ended up writing my Extended Essay on a revolution in post-WWII British theatre. (Yes, I'm definitely a #TheatreNerd.)

I really encourage anyone who pursues an IB Diploma to take the Extended Essay seriously. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition merit scholarship to USC's School of Dramatic Arts program. In my interview for the scholarship, I spoke passionately about my Extended Essay; thus, I genuinely think my Extended Essay helped me get my scholarship.

But how do you find a topic you're passionate about? Start by thinking about which classes you enjoy the most and why . Do you like math classes because you like to solve problems? Or do you enjoy English because you like to analyze literary texts?

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your Extended Essay topic. You're not more likely to get high marks because you're writing about science, just like you're not doomed to failure because you've chosen to tackle the social sciences. The quality of what you produce—not the field you choose to research within—will determine your grade.

Once you've figured out your category, you should brainstorm more specific topics by putting pen to paper . What was your favorite chapter you learned in that class? Was it astrophysics or mechanics? What did you like about that specific chapter? Is there something you want to learn more about? I recommend spending a few hours on this type of brainstorming.

One last note: if you're truly stumped on what to research, pick a topic that will help you in your future major or career . That way you can use your Extended Essay as a talking point in your college essays (and it will prepare you for your studies to come too!).

#2: Select a Topic That Is Neither Too Broad nor Too Narrow

There's a fine line between broad and narrow. You need to write about something specific, but not so specific that you can't write 4,000 words on it.

You can't write about WWII because that would be a book's worth of material. You also don't want to write about what type of soup prisoners of war received behind enemy lines, because you probably won’t be able to come up with 4,000 words of material about it. However, you could possibly write about how the conditions in German POW camps—and the rations provided—were directly affected by the Nazis' successes and failures on the front, including the use of captured factories and prison labor in Eastern Europe to increase production. WWII military history might be a little overdone, but you get my point.

If you're really stuck trying to pinpoint a not-too-broad-or-too-narrow topic, I suggest trying to brainstorm a topic that uses a comparison. Once you begin looking through the list of sample essays below, you'll notice that many use comparisons to formulate their main arguments.

I also used a comparison in my EE, contrasting Harold Pinter's Party Time with John Osborne's Look Back in Anger in order to show a transition in British theatre. Topics with comparisons of two to three plays, books, and so on tend to be the sweet spot. You can analyze each item and then compare them with one another after doing some in-depth analysis of each individually. The ways these items compare and contrast will end up forming the thesis of your essay!

When choosing a comparative topic, the key is that the comparison should be significant. I compared two plays to illustrate the transition in British theatre, but you could compare the ways different regional dialects affect people's job prospects or how different temperatures may or may not affect the mating patterns of lightning bugs. The point here is that comparisons not only help you limit your topic, but they also help you build your argument.

Comparisons are not the only way to get a grade-A EE, though. If after brainstorming, you pick a non-comparison-based topic and are still unsure whether your topic is too broad or narrow, spend about 30 minutes doing some basic research and see how much material is out there.

If there are more than 1,000 books, articles, or documentaries out there on that exact topic, it may be too broad. But if there are only two books that have any connection to your topic, it may be too narrow. If you're still unsure, ask your advisor—it's what they're there for! Speaking of advisors...

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

#3: Choose an Advisor Who Is Familiar With Your Topic

If you're not certain of who you would like to be your advisor, create a list of your top three choices. Next, write down the pros and cons of each possibility (I know this sounds tedious, but it really helps!).

For example, Mr. Green is my favorite teacher and we get along really well, but he teaches English. For my EE, I want to conduct an experiment that compares the efficiency of American electric cars with foreign electric cars.

I had Ms. White a year ago. She teaches physics and enjoyed having me in her class. Unlike Mr. Green, Ms. White could help me design my experiment.

Based on my topic and what I need from my advisor, Ms. White would be a better fit for me than would Mr. Green (even though I like him a lot).

The moral of my story is this: do not just ask your favorite teacher to be your advisor . They might be a hindrance to you if they teach another subject. For example, I would not recommend asking your biology teacher to guide you in writing an English literature-based EE.

There can, of course, be exceptions to this rule. If you have a teacher who's passionate and knowledgeable about your topic (as my English teacher was about my theatre topic), you could ask that instructor. Consider all your options before you do this. There was no theatre teacher at my high school, so I couldn't find a theatre-specific advisor, but I chose the next best thing.

Before you approach a teacher to serve as your advisor, check with your high school to see what requirements they have for this process. Some IB high schools require your IB Extended Essay advisor to sign an Agreement Form , for instance.

Make sure that you ask your IB coordinator whether there is any required paperwork to fill out. If your school needs a specific form signed, bring it with you when you ask your teacher to be your EE advisor.

#4: Pick an Advisor Who Will Push You to Be Your Best

Some teachers might just take on students because they have to and aren't very passionate about reading drafts, only giving you minimal feedback. Choose a teacher who will take the time to read several drafts of your essay and give you extensive notes. I would not have gotten my A without being pushed to make my Extended Essay draft better.

Ask a teacher that you have experience with through class or an extracurricular activity. Do not ask a teacher that you have absolutely no connection to. If a teacher already knows you, that means they already know your strengths and weaknesses, so they know what to look for, where you need to improve, and how to encourage your best work.

Also, don't forget that your supervisor's assessment is part of your overall EE score . If you're meeting with someone who pushes you to do better—and you actually take their advice—they'll have more impressive things to say about you than a supervisor who doesn't know you well and isn't heavily involved in your research process.

Be aware that the IB only allows advisors to make suggestions and give constructive criticism. Your teacher cannot actually help you write your EE. The IB recommends that the supervisor spends approximately two to three hours in total with the candidate discussing the EE.

#5: Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure and Flow

The IB likes structure. Your EE needs a clear introduction (which should be one to two double-spaced pages), research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly.

The body of your EE should make up the bulk of the essay. It should be about eight to 18 pages long (again, depending on your topic). Your body can be split into multiple parts. For example, if you were doing a comparison, you might have one third of your body as Novel A Analysis, another third as Novel B Analysis, and the final third as your comparison of Novels A and B.

If you're conducting an experiment or analyzing data, such as in this EE , your EE body should have a clear structure that aligns with the scientific method ; you should state the research question, discuss your method, present the data, analyze the data, explain any uncertainties, and draw a conclusion and/or evaluate the success of the experiment.

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

You will not be able to crank out a 4,000-word essay in just a week and get an A on it. You'll be reading many, many articles (and, depending on your topic, possibly books and plays as well!). As such, it's imperative that you start your research as soon as possible.

Each school has a slightly different deadline for the Extended Essay. Some schools want them as soon as November of your senior year; others will take them as late as February. Your school will tell you what your deadline is. If they haven't mentioned it by February of your junior year, ask your IB coordinator about it.

Some high schools will provide you with a timeline of when you need to come up with a topic, when you need to meet with your advisor, and when certain drafts are due. Not all schools do this. Ask your IB coordinator if you are unsure whether you are on a specific timeline.

Below is my recommended EE timeline. While it's earlier than most schools, it'll save you a ton of heartache (trust me, I remember how hard this process was!):

• January/February of Junior Year: Come up with your final research topic (or at least your top three options).
• February of Junior Year: Approach a teacher about being your EE advisor. If they decline, keep asking others until you find one. See my notes above on how to pick an EE advisor.
• April/May of Junior Year: Submit an outline of your EE and a bibliography of potential research sources (I recommend at least seven to 10) to your EE advisor. Meet with your EE advisor to discuss your outline.
• Summer Between Junior and Senior Year: Complete your first full draft over the summer between your junior and senior year. I know, I know—no one wants to work during the summer, but trust me—this will save you so much stress come fall when you are busy with college applications and other internal assessments for your IB classes. You will want to have this first full draft done because you will want to complete a couple of draft cycles as you likely won't be able to get everything you want to say into 4,000 articulate words on the first attempt. Try to get this first draft into the best possible shape so you don't have to work on too many revisions during the school year on top of your homework, college applications, and extracurriculars.
• August/September of Senior Year: Turn in your first draft of your EE to your advisor and receive feedback. Work on incorporating their feedback into your essay. If they have a lot of suggestions for improvement, ask if they will read one more draft before the final draft.
• September/October of Senior Year: Submit the second draft of your EE to your advisor (if necessary) and look at their feedback. Work on creating the best possible final draft.
• November-February of Senior Year: Schedule your viva voce. Submit two copies of your final draft to your school to be sent off to the IB. You likely will not get your grade until after you graduate.

Remember that in the middle of these milestones, you'll need to schedule two other reflection sessions with your advisor . (Your teachers will actually take notes on these sessions on a form like this one , which then gets submitted to the IB.)

I recommend doing them when you get feedback on your drafts, but these meetings will ultimately be up to your supervisor. Just don't forget to do them!

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

Extended Essays are graded by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34 . You'll be graded on five criteria, each with its own set of points. You can learn more about how EE scoring works by reading the IB guide to extended essays .

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

How well you do on each of these criteria will determine the final letter grade you get for your EE. You must earn at least a D to be eligible to receive your IB Diploma.

Although each criterion has a point value, the IB explicitly states that graders are not converting point totals into grades; instead, they're using qualitative grade descriptors to determine the final grade of your Extended Essay . Grade descriptors are on pages 102-103 of this document .

Here's a rough estimate of how these different point values translate to letter grades based on previous scoring methods for the EE. This is just an estimate —you should read and understand the grade descriptors so you know exactly what the scorers are looking for.

Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2021 bulletin):

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

The Extended Essay grade is combined with your TOK (Theory of Knowledge) grade to determine how many points you get toward your IB Diploma.

To learn about Theory of Knowledge or how many points you need to receive an IB Diploma, read our complete guide to the IB program and our guide to the IB Diploma requirements .

This diagram shows how the two scores are combined to determine how many points you receive for your IB diploma (3 being the most, 0 being the least). In order to get your IB Diploma, you have to earn 24 points across both categories (the TOK and EE). The highest score anyone can earn is 45 points.

Let's say you get an A on your EE and a B on TOK. You will get 3 points toward your Diploma. As of 2014, a student who scores an E on either the extended essay or TOK essay will not be eligible to receive an IB Diploma .

Prior to the class of 2010, a Diploma candidate could receive a failing grade in either the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge and still be awarded a Diploma, but this is no longer true.

Figuring out how you're assessed can be a little tricky. Luckily, the IB breaks everything down here in this document . (The assessment information begins on page 219.)

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

In case you want a little more guidance on how to get an A on your EE, here are over 40 excellent (grade A) sample extended essays for your reading pleasure. Essays are grouped by IB subject.

• Business Management 1
• Chemistry 1
• Chemistry 2
• Chemistry 3
• Chemistry 4
• Chemistry 5
• Chemistry 6
• Chemistry 7
• Computer Science 1
• Economics 1
• Design Technology 1
• Design Technology 2
• Environmental Systems and Societies 1
• Geography 1
• Geography 2
• Geography 3
• Geography 4
• Geography 5
• Geography 6
• Literature and Performance 1
• Mathematics 1
• Mathematics 2
• Mathematics 3
• Mathematics 4
• Mathematics 5
• Philosophy 1
• Philosophy 2
• Philosophy 3
• Philosophy 4
• Philosophy 5
• Psychology 1
• Psychology 2
• Psychology 3
• Psychology 4
• Psychology 5
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 1
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 2
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 3
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 1
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 2
• Visual Arts 1
• Visual Arts 2
• Visual Arts 3
• Visual Arts 4
• Visual Arts 5
• World Religion 1
• World Religion 2
• World Religion 3

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Extended Essay: Structure of the Extended Essay

• Before You Start
• Business Management
• Language and Literature
• Visual Arts
• World Studies
• Developing a Research Question
• Structure of the Extended Essay
• Writing the Essay
• Citations/Sources/Academic Honesty
• Timelines and Materials
• Example Research Questions
• Supervisors

Elements To Be Included

• Table of Contents
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References/Bibliography

Not sure yet but something should be here

The Extended Essay Step by Step Guide 5: Structure and Planning When it comes to writing a brilliant first draft of your Extended Essay, or any essay, I fully believe that a solid structure is one of the surest guarantees of success there is. It's the skeleton of the essay that makes it into a fully formed being instead of a pile of jelly.

What's the Difference Between the Topic, Title, and Research Question?

• The  topic  of the extended essay is the subject, issue or theme that you are investigating within a specific DP subject or world studies area of study. The topic, which develops during the initial thinking about the EE, should later be reflected in the wording of the title.
• be short, descriptive and succinct
• not be phrased as a question
• use key words that connect with the topic and the DP subject or world studies area of study
• attract the interest of the reader.
• be clear and focused
• provide a path through which you can undertake achievable research
• use key words that connect with the topic, the title, and the DP subject or world studies area of study
• support the development of an argument.

Presentation Requirements

Title Page (i tems that should be included in the title page):

• Title of the essay
• Research question
• Subject for which the essay is registered (and category if necessary)

Times New Roman 12 pt. font 

Double spaced

Pages numbered after the title page

Bibliography/work cited

Table of contents

No more than 4000 words

Assessment of the EE - Advice for Students

Use this list to help you think about the assessment criteria and whether you have addressed the expectations within your essay. You do not need to address all of the questions posed, but they do provide some guidance in terms of what to consider.

Criterion A:  Focus and Method

What It Means: This criterion focuses on the topic, the research question and the methodology. It assesses the explanation of the focus of the research (this includes the topic and the research question), how the research will be undertaken, and how the focus is maintained throughout the essay.

Questions to ask:

• Does this essay meet the requirements for the subject for which you are registering it? • Is your research question stated as a question?

• Have you explained how your research question relates to the subject that you selected for the extended essay?

• Have you given an insight into why your area of study is important?

• Is your research question feasible within the scope of the task? Could your research question be “answered” or it is too vague?

• Did you refer to your research question throughout the essay (not only in the introduction and conclusion)? • Did you explain why you selected your methodology?

• Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?

• If you stated a particular methodology in the introduction of your essay, or specific sources, have you used them?

• Are there any references listed in the bibliography that were not directly cited in the text?

Criterion B: Knowledge and understanding

What It Means: This criterion assesses the extent to which the research relates to the subject area/discipline used to explore the research question; or in the case of the world studies extended essay, the issue addressed and the two disciplinary perspectives applied; and additionally, the way in which this knowledge and understanding is demonstrated through the use of appropriate terminology and concepts.

• Have you explained how your research question relates to a specific subject you selected for the extended essay?

• Have you used relevant terminology and concepts throughout your essay as they relate to your particular area of research?

• Is it clear that the sources you are using are relevant and appropriate to your research question?

• Do you have a range of sources, or have you only relied on one particular type, for example internet sources?

• Is there a reason why you might not have a range? Is this justified?

Criterion C: Critical Thinking

What It Means: This criterion assesses the extent to which critical thinking skills have been used to analyze and evaluate the research undertaken.

• Have you made links between your results and data collected and your research question?

• If you included data or information that is not directly related to your research question have you explained its importance?

• Are your conclusions supported by your data?

• If you found unexpected information or data have you discussed its importance?

• Have you provided a critical evaluation of the methods you selected?

• Have you considered the reliability of your sources (peer-reviewed journals, internet, and so on)?

• Have you mentioned and evaluated the significance of possible errors that may have occurred in your research?

• Are all your suggestions of errors or improvements relevant?

• Have you evaluated your research question?

• Have you compared your results or findings with any other sources?

• Is there an argument that is clear and easy to follow and directly linked to answering your research question, and which is supported by evidence? Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?

Criterion D: Presentation

What It Means: This criterion assesses the extent to which the presentation follows the standard format expected for academic writing and the extent to which this aids effective communication.

• Have you read and understood the presentation requirements of the extended essay?

• Have you chosen a font that will be easy for examiners to read onscreen?

• Is your essay double-spaced and size 12 font? • Are the title and research question mentioned on the cover page?

• Are all pages numbered?

• Have you prepared a correct table of contents?

• Do the page numbers in the table of contents match the page numbers in the text?

• Is your essay subdivided into correct sub-sections, if this is applicable to the subject?

• Are all figures and tables properly numbered and labelled?

• Does your bibliography contain only the sources cited in the text?

• Did you use the same reference system throughout the essay?

• Does the essay have less than 4,000 words?

• Is all the material presented in the appendices relevant and necessary?

• Have you proofread the text for spelling or grammar errors?

Criterion E: Engagement

What It Means:  This criterion assesses the student’s engagement with their research focus and the research process. It will be applied by the examiner at the end of the assessment of the essay, after considering the student’s RPPF (Reflections on planning and progress form).

• Have you demonstrated your engagement with your research topic and the research process?

• Have you highlighted challenges you faced and how you overcame them?

• Will the examiner get a sense of your intellectual and skills development?

• Will the examiner get a sense of your creativity and intellectual initiative?

• Will the examiner get a sense of how you responded to actions and ideas in the research process?

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• Next: Writing the Essay >>
• Last Updated: Nov 18, 2020 8:01 AM
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How to Write an Extended Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

Alisha Rayes

Writing an extended essay can be daunting, but it can be a fun and rewarding experience with the right approach. To write a successful extended essay, you will need to choose a topic you are passionate about, research it, and plan your essay carefully. With a little hard work and dedication, you can write an excellent extended essay that will impress your teachers and earn you an excellent grade. So, where do you begin? Let’s discover!

Table of Contents

What is the ib extended essay (ee).

The IB Extended Essay (EE) is a 4,000-word research paper required for all IB Diploma candidates. The EE is an opportunity for students to engage in independent research on a topic of their choice. The research process involves formulating a research question, conducting a literature review, designing and conducting experiments (if applicable), and writing a research paper.

The Extended Essay is a flexible component of the IB Diploma that can be written either as an individual or group project.

Students have up to six months (or longer for Science students) to complete their EE. They are expected to spend at least 20 hours per week on their essay during this period. Although some students may choose to spend more time on it, others only have a little time left to search for an extended essay writer online to write their papers.

The IB EE is similar in format and style to an undergraduate research paper but with some differences that reflect the nature of the IB program. For example, the IB EE must contain an introduction, a body comprising several paragraphs or sections, and a conclusion.

What Are the Requirements?

The IB Extended Essay assignment has some requirements that must be met to complete the assignment successfully. The requirements are:

• A minimum of 4000 words is required for this assignment.
• Your IB supervisor must approve a research question to ensure it is feasible and aligns with the IB curriculum.
• An in-depth exploration of your chosen topic could involve looking at the history of the topic, examining different interpretations, and considering how it has been addressed in different contexts.
• The incorporation of at least 12 sources is required for this assignment, including at least 6 academic sources. All sources must be properly cited in APA format.
• An extended essay should include a detailed bibliography with at least 3 peer-reviewed sources. The bibliography should be formatted according to the style guide of the essay’s discipline.
• The essay must include a research question that the student will answer throughout their essay. The question must be specific and clearly defined, and the student must provide evidence to support their answer.

Submitting your first draft to the supervisor you have chosen is recommended. This will help ensure that you are on the right track and that your supervisor can provide useful feedback.

How to Choose Your Advisor?

When choosing an advisor for your extended essay, it is essential to choose someone knowledgeable about the topic you are interested in and who can provide helpful feedback. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right advisor for your project:

Your advisor should be an expert in the topic you are writing about and who can help you achieve your academic goals. Make sure you talk to them about your plans and ask for their advice.

Look for someone approachable and helpful. They should be willing to provide feedback and suggestions and be willing to answer any questions you have.

Look for someone who has experience with extended essays. An advisor with experience with extended essays will help you navigate the process and understand the expectations of the essay format. In addition, they will provide feedback and guidance on the best way to approach your project.

Consider their availability and availability schedule. Make sure your advisor is available during the times that are best for you, and check their availability schedule to see if they are available for Skype or in-person meetings.

What Are Extended Essay Categories?

The Extended Essay (EE) is a research paper of up to 4,000 words on a topic of the student’s choice within one of the six prescribed EE thematic categories. The EE is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their research and writing skills and their ability to think critically about a topic.

The main categories are studies in mathematics, language and literature, sciences, language acquisition, individuals and societies, and the arts.

Suggested reading – 4 Advice on How to Study Sociology .

How to Write an Extended Essay?

Extended essays can be tricky to write, but with the right approach, they can be both informative and engaging. To write a successful extended essay, you must choose a topic you are passionate about, thoroughly conduct research, and develop a strong argument. 

Additionally, your extended essay should be well-written and well-organized to engage your reader and communicate your ideas effectively . Let’s look closer at the main steps of writing an extended essay.

Choose a Topic

The first step to writing any successful extended essay is finding the right topic. You’ll want to pick a subject that intrigues you because you will spend a lot of time researching and writing this paper. Once you’ve found your topic, make sure it can be covered in 4,000 words.

If you try to cover too much information in your extended essay, it will end up feeling very thin – like an introduction with no substance. This can make the reader feel like they’ve wasted their time reading your paper, which is something you want to avoid at all costs.

Research Information

Once you’ve chosen your topic, get researching! You’ll want to gather as much information as possible about the subject at hand. Make sure that the sources of information you’re using are reliable and unbiased; if not, this could skew the tone of your extended essay in a way that makes it appear biased or unfair towards certain groups or people.

Develop a Research Question

This step aims to help you narrow down the amount of information that will be included in your extended essay. If you’re writing an argumentative paper, for example, then your research question should be something like “Should students be required to wear school uniforms?” After you’ve come up with a research question, ensure that everything else you include in your extended essay supports this idea.

Develop Structure and an Outline of EE

The structure of your paper should include a brief introduction and conclusion as well as three main sections: body paragraphs (usually about 1-3 per topic), subheadings, and tables or figures. Your introduction should set up the reader for what they will be reading in the rest of your extended essay; don’t just repeat information from your introduction in the body paragraphs.

Write the First Draft

After you’ve created your outline, write the first draft of your extended essay. This should be a rough draft that doesn’t adhere to any particular structure or format; just get down all your ideas on paper at this point. After you have finished writing your first draft, go over it carefully and make edits as necessary. Then, submit your revised draft to your mentor for review and suggestions.

Write the Final Draft of Your EE

When you’ve received feedback from your mentor and made any necessary changes, it’s time to write the final draft of your extended essay. You want to ensure that this is a finished product that’s free from any spelling or grammatical errors. If it doesn’t look professional, it won’t get graded!

Proofread the Work

After you’ve finished writing your extended essay , proofread and check for any errors before submitting it to the professor. It’s also a good idea to have someone else read over your work in case they find mistakes you missed; this can help prevent any problems with grading down the line.

Now You Know How to Write a Good IB EE

In summary, if you’re like most students, you’ve probably been assigned an extended essay as part of your coursework. Whether you’re writing about a topic of your choice or responding to a question, writing an extended essay can be challenging.

The first step is to gather your research. Writing an extended essay is about providing your readers with insights they didn’t already have, so it’s essential to do your research thoroughly. Go beyond reading the assigned article or watching the video; take the time to read other related sources, gather data, and interview experts. This will not only give you a more comprehensive understanding of the topic, but it will also make you more credible as an essay writer.

Once you understand the topic well, it’s time to develop a thesis statement. This statement will be the backbone of your argument and help guide your writing. Make sure that your thesis is well-supported by your research and that it is logically consistent with the rest of your essay.

Next, it’s important to develop your argument. This section of your essay should provide readers with insights they didn’t already have and should be based on your research and thesis statement. Be sure to articulate your points clearly and use concrete examples to illustrate your points. 

Finally, it’s important to structure your essay logically. By following these tips, you can develop an effective extended essay that will amaze your professors and earn high marks.

Use the guide wisely and get the best possible grade for your IB extended essay. Good luck, my friend 😉

1. How to write ee?

Writing an extended essay involves selecting a topic, conducting research, creating a thesis statement, outlining the essay, writing the body paragraphs, and concluding with a reflection. It’s crucial to gather credible sources, organize your ideas logically, and adhere to the required formatting style. Additionally, revising and proofreading are essential to ensure clarity and coherence in your writing.

2. How to start an extended essay?

Starting an extended essay involves selecting a topic that interests you deeply, conducting thorough research to gather relevant information, and formulating a clear and focused research question. Once you have your topic and question, create an outline to organize your ideas and structure your essay effectively. Finally, make sure to consult with your supervisor or teacher throughout the process to receive guidance and feedback.

3. How to write a good extended essay?

Writing a strong extended essay involves selecting a topic of personal interest, conducting thorough research, and organizing ideas effectively. It’s crucial to develop a clear thesis statement and structure your essay with a logical flow. Make sure to support your arguments with evidence and critically analyze your sources. Lastly, revise and edit your essay carefully to ensure clarity, coherence, and proper formatting.

4. How to start an ee?

Beginning an extended essay involves selecting a topic that interests you deeply and aligns with your academic pursuits and passions. This topic should be sufficiently narrow to allow for in-depth exploration while also being broad enough to provide scope for research and analysis.

5. What is the first procedure used when writing an extended essay?

When starting an extended essay, the initial step involves selecting a topic that genuinely interests you and aligns with your academic pursuits and personal passions.

6. What is an extended essay in ib?

An extended essay in IB is a research project that students undertake to explore a specific topic within one of the subjects they’re studying. It’s an opportunity for them to delve deeply into a subject they’re passionate about, demonstrating their analytical and critical thinking skills while producing a substantial piece of academic writing.

7. What is the product of the seventh procedure of writing an extended essay?

The product of the seventh procedure of writing an extended essay involves drafting the body paragraphs with relevant evidence and analysis to support your thesis statement.

8. What are the skills needed in the fourth procedure of writing an extended essay?

In the fourth step of writing an extended essay, you’ll need to employ critical thinking skills, analyze your research findings, and demonstrate a clear understanding of your chosen topic. Additionally, effective communication skills are crucial for conveying your arguments and ideas concisely and persuasively.

9. How to structure an ee?

Structuring an extended essay involves organizing your ideas into clear sections, such as introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, ensuring coherence and logical progression throughout the essay. Each section serves a specific purpose, from introducing the topic to presenting arguments and evidence, culminating in a concise summary of your findings. This structured approach helps readers follow your reasoning and enhances the overall effectiveness of your essay.

10. How to write an extended essay conclusion?

Crafting an extended essay conclusion involves summarizing key points. Restate your thesis and main arguments. Reflect on the significance of your findings. Avoid introducing new ideas. Aim for clarity and closure.

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Extended Essay: Step 6 - Outlines and Plans

• Introduction to the EE
• Step 1 - Choose a subject
• World Studies
• Step 3 - The Researchers Reflection Space
• Identify Sources
• Tools for Note Taking
• Video Guides
• Step 5 - Creating Research Questions
• Step 6 - Outlines and Plans
• Step 7 - Citing
• Criteria E - 3 Reflections
• Know Your Criteria
• Criteria D - Check your Formatting
• 4000 words final hand in

Creating Outlines for your Essay

Importance of outlines.

Task: You will now be writing your own Outline prior to writing your first 2000 words of your essay.

• Think of the outline as the skeleton of your essay. You will start to put some flesh on this skeleton with your 2000 words.
• Look at some examples of outlines and use the template to start you going. Your essay must always focus on answering the research question. The outline should show you how you are going to do this. 
• Each section of the essay must be relevant and link to the research question and to show different perspectives.

Resource: Template for writing an outline - You do not have to use this, you can create your own style, however, this could be helpful.

Note these are just examples. If there is not one from you subject area, don't worry. Look at these to get some ideas.

Source: ISB

• << Previous: Step 5 - Creating Research Questions
• Next: Step 7 - Citing >>
• Last Updated: Mar 10, 2024 10:40 PM
• URL: https://cis.libguides.com/extendedessay

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What Is an IB Extended Essay and How to Write It?

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Table of contents

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The IB extended essay is a paper of up to 4,000 words that is required for students enrolled in the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma program. The extended essay allows students to engage in independent research on a topic within one of the available subject areas.

The extended essay should be an original piece of academic writing that demonstrates the following student's abilities:

• Formulating a research question
• Conductig independent investigation
• Presenting key findings in a scholarly format.

Check out this article by StudyCrumb to discover how to write an IB extendend essay properly. We will give you a complete writing guide and critical tips you need for this essay type.

IB Extended Essay: What Is It?

An extended essay is independent research. Usually students choose a topic in consultation with a mentor. It is an integral part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) degree program. This means that you won't receive a degree without a successfully written paper. It requires 4,000-word study on a chosen narrow topic. To get a high score, you should meet all required structure and formatting standards. This is the result of approximately 40 working hours. Its purpose is giving you the opportunity to try independent research writing. It's approved that these skills are critical for student success at university. The following sections explain how to write an extended article with examples. So keep reading!  

Choosing a Mentor for Extended Essay

IB extended essay guidelines require supervisor meetings, totaling 3-5 hours. They include three critical reflections. A mentor won't write a paper instead of you but can help adjust it. So it is important to consult with them, but no one will proofread or correct actual research for you. In general, initially treat an essay as an exclusively individual work. So your role and contribution are maximal.

Extended Essay Outline

Let's take a look at how to write an extended essay outline. In this part, you organize yourself so that your work develops your idea. So we especially recommend you work out this step with your teacher. You can also find any outline example for essay . In your short sketch, plan a roadmap for your thoughts. Think through and prepare a summary of each paragraph. Then, expand annotation of each section with a couple more supporting evidence. Explain how specific examples illustrate key points. Make it more significant by using different opinions on general issues.  

Extended Essay: Getting Started

After you chose an extended essay topic and made an outline, it's time to start your research. Start with a complete Table of Contents and make a choice of a research question. Select the subject in which you feel most confident and which is most interesting for you. For example, if at school you are interested in natural science, focus on that. If you have difficulties choosing a research question, rely on our essay topic generator .

Extended Essay Introduction

In the introduction of an extended essay, present a thesis statement. But do it in such a way that your readers understand the importance of your research. State research question clearly. That is the central question that you are trying to answer while writing. Even your score depends on how you develop your particular research question. Therefore, it is essential to draw it up correctly. Gather all relevant information from relevant sources. Explain why this is worth exploring. Then provide a research plan, which you will disclose further.  

Extended Essay Methodology

In accordance with extended essay guidelines, it's mandatory to choose and clearly state a methodological approach. So, it will be apparent to your examiner how you answered your research question. Include your collection methods and tools you use for collection and analysis. Your strategies can be experimental or descriptive, quantitative or qualitative. Research collection tools include observations, questionnaires, interviews, or background knowledge.

Extended Essay Main Body

Well, here we come to the most voluminous part of the extended essay for IB! In every essay body paragraph , you reveal your research question and discuss your topic. Provide all details of your academic study. But stay focused and do it without dubious ideas. Use different sources of information to provide supporting arguments and substantial evidence. This will impress professors. For this section, 3 main paragraphs are enough. Discuss each idea or argument in a separate paragraph. You can even use supporting quotes where appropriate. But don't overcomplicate. Make your extended essay easy to read and logical. It's critical to stay concise, so if you aren't sure how to make your text readable, use our tool to get a readbility test . Following the plan you outlined earlier is very important. Analyze each fact before including it in your writing. And don't write unnecessary information.

Extended Essay Conclusion

Now let's move on to the final part of IB extended essay guidelines. In conclusion, focus on summarizing the main points you have made. No new ideas or information can be introduced in this part. Use conclusion as your last chance to impress your readers. Reframe your own strong thesis. Here you must show all key points. Do not repeat absolutely every argument. Better try to make this part unique. This will show that you have a clear understanding of the topic you have chosen. And even more professional will be recommendations of new areas for future research. One good paragraph may be enough here. Although in some cases, two or three paragraphs may be required.

Extended Essay Bibliography & Appendices

To write an impressive extended essay, you should focus on appropriate information. You must create a separate page for bibliography with all sources you used. Tip from us: start writing this page with the first quote you use. Don't write this part last or postpone. In turn, appendices are not an essential section. Examiners will not pay much attention to this part. Therefore, include all information directly related to analysis and argumentation in the main body. Include raw data in the appendix only if it is really urgently needed. Moreover, it is better not to refer to appendices in text itself. This can disrupt the narrative of the essay.  

Extended Essay Examples

We have prepared a good example of an extended essay. You can check it by downloading it for free. You can use it as a template. However, pay attention that your paper is required to be unique. Don't be afraid to present all the skills you gained during your IB.

Final Thoughts on IB Extended Essay

In this article, we presented detailed IB extended essay guidelines. An extended essay is a daunting academic challenge to write. It is a research paper with a deep thematic analysis of information. But we have described several practical and straightforward tips. Therefore, we are sure that you will succeed!

If topics seem too complex, turn to our top essay writers. They will accomplish any IB assignment in the best way your professor can evaluate it!  

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

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IB Extended Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Extended Essay is a substantial research project that challenges high school students to explore a topic of personal interest within one of the IB's six subject areas. This extended essay, typically around 4,000 words in length, allows students to engage in independent research and develop critical thinking and writing skills. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of completing your IB Extended Essay successfully.

1. Choose Your Subject Area and Topic

- Subject Area: First, select one of the six IB subject areas that you're passionate about and in which you have a strong academic background. These areas include Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts.

- Topic: Narrow down your subject area to a specific topic or research question that genuinely interests you. Your topic should be neither too broad nor too narrow, allowing for in-depth exploration within the word limit.

2. Develop a Research Question

- Research Question: Create a clear and focused research question that guides your investigation. Your research question should be specific, open-ended, and relevant to your chosen subject area.

3. Conduct Preliminary Research

- Literature Review: Start with preliminary research to gain an understanding of the existing scholarship and literature related to your topic. This will help you refine your research question and identify gaps in the current knowledge.

4. Create a Research Plan

- Timeline: Develop a timeline that outlines key milestones and deadlines for your extended essay. This plan should include research, data collection (if applicable), writing, and revision phases.

5. Collect and Analyze Data (if applicable)

- If your extended essay requires data collection (e.g., experiments, surveys, interviews), conduct this research following ethical guidelines. Ensure that your data collection is well-documented and relevant to your research question.

6. Outline Your Essay

- Structure: Create a clear and organized outline for your extended essay. Typically, your essay will include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The body should be divided into sections or chapters that address different aspects of your research.

- Thesis Statement: Develop a strong thesis statement that presents your main argument or hypothesis.

7. Write Your Extended Essay

- Introduction: Start with a compelling introduction that introduces your research question and provides context for your study.

- Body: Present your research findings and analysis in a logical and structured manner. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to your argument and supports your thesis.

- Citations: Properly cite all sources using a consistent citation style (e.g., MLA, APA). Be diligent in avoiding plagiarism.

- Conclusion: Summarize your main findings, restate your thesis, and discuss the significance of your research.

8. Revise and Edit

- Review: Take time to review and revise your extended essay. Check for clarity, coherence, grammar, spelling, and formatting errors.

- Peer Review: Consider having a peer or teacher review your essay for feedback and suggestions.

9. Create Citations and Bibliography

- Generate a comprehensive bibliography that includes all the sources you used in your research. Ensure that your citations are accurate and properly formatted.

10. Submit Your Extended Essay

- Follow your school's guidelines for submission, including deadlines and formatting requirements.

11. Reflect on the Process

- After completing your extended essay, take some time to reflect on your research journey. Consider what you learned, the challenges you faced, and the skills you developed.

12. Celebrate Your Achievement

- Completing an IB Extended Essay is a significant accomplishment. Celebrate your hard work and the knowledge you've gained throughout the process.

The IB Extended Essay is an opportunity for high school students to engage in independent research and develop essential academic skills. By following this step-by-step guide and staying committed to your research and writing, you can successfully complete your extended essay and present a well-researched and well-structured project that demonstrates your academic abilities and passion for your chosen subject area.

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A Student Guide: How to Plan an Extended Essay Proposal?

Writing an extended essay often starts with writing an effective proposal. At the start, it seems daunting, but it is the best way to plot an overview of your extended essay. The key points the EE proposal should include are the idea, the time frame for conducting the research, and what the study is about, which subject?

We'll explain every point in detail to understand how to write the best research proposal .

First, spend hours brainstorming to generate the unique idea that you find interesting. It is often considered the most challenging, but it can be made easy if you spend some time reading newspapers, journals, TED talks, and documentaries. Furthermore, YouTube recommended videos can spark unique ideas.

The research question:

A research question guides an extended essay. It must be open-ended and can allow you to investigate from every aspect. It probably includes the warrant's "grounds" or general principles that tell you why your research is relevant to the question. It's not a good question if it already has an answer in your mind.

The time frame:

The extended essay proposal contains a timeline that makes your teacher evaluate whether your extended essay is viable or not. So, you need to set a timeframe before embarking on the project by selecting different stages of writing like research, analysing your data, and writing your first draft, then editing it to produce the final one.

An easy way to create your timeline we plan different stages of writing. For example, you need to analyse, research, finalise your date, write the first draft, edit it and then write the final draft.

Here is an example of your timeline.

• Initial background research_ early April
• Conduct main research_ in late April
• Data analysis_ July
• Plan sturcture_August 
• Write the first draft in_ the first 2 weeks of September.
• Write the final draft in_ the last 2 weeks of September
• Final draft in hand- October

It is advised not to plan anything in June. It gives you time to revise for the final exams 

and proper break at the start of summer.

  Resource needed:

The most striking point is what you need for your research and where to get started? A clear direction makes it easy to conduct your research as smoothly and quickly as possible.

While writing your proposal, remember that the research paper aims not to answer your question but to plan your project and is designed to help answer your question.

Throughout the writing of your proposal, you must keep in mind that it is not the answer to the research question. The document is planning your project to ensure it is feasible.

If you have trouble writing your extended essay , we’re here to guide you at: https://helloblen.com/blog

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Guide to the IB Extended Essay in 2024

January 24, 2024

If you’re an International Baccalaureate student getting ready to write your IB Extended Essay, you might be experiencing some very understandable trepidation. But have no fear—we’re here to help you understand what’s required of you, how to plan ahead (IB extended essay topics), and how you’ll be graded (IB extended essay rubric). Keep reading for a good dose of preparation and confidence before you begin the journey. In this article, we’ll cover:

What is the IB Extended Essay?

The ib extended essay—required content, ib extended essay topics.

IB Extended Essay—Sample Essays

IB Extended Essay Tips

Ib extended essay rubric, ib extended essay—more resources.

The IB Extended Essay is a 4,000-word paper that asks you to immerse yourself in research and academic writing. A required part of the IB program, the Extended Essay is a chance to dig deep into a topic that fascinates you.

Although it’s no small task, the IB Extended Essay is an opportunity to gain practical research and writing skills that will come in handy again in college. As you write, you’ll learn how to:

• Identify credible sources
• Formulate a research question and limit your scope of research
• Communicate ideas to an audience
• Develop a well-supported argument

The IB Extended Essay is largely an independent, self-directed project, but don’t worry—the IB program doesn’t throw you into the deep end. You do get to select a mentor (usually a teacher at your school) to help guide you through the process. As you write, you’ll be required to meet with your mentor three times. As part of your final evaluation, your mentor will interview you in a final reflection section called a viva voce . During the viva voce, your mentor will check for plagiarism and malpractice, ask you to reflect on challenges and difficulties, and prompt you to discuss what you’ve learned through the research and writing process. Your mentor will then generate a report that factors into your final grade.

Your final essay must include the following:

• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

For this essay, it will be up to you to generate a topic; the International Baccalaureate does not provide prompts. However, your essay will need to fit within one of six provided subject areas . You’ll choose from the following list of IB Extended Essay Topics:

• Language and literature
• Language acquisition
• Individuals and societies
• Mathematics

IB Extended Essay Topics (Continued)

At a glance, the subject areas might look limited, but the topics you can choose to write about are actually wide-ranging. The “Individuals and societies” category includes social science topics like economics, history, world religions, and philosophy. And, if you’re leaning toward “Science,” you can choose from classic subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics, or related topics like environmental systems or health science, among others.

The IB also offers a special “World Studies” option for students interested in researching global issues. This subject would allow you to center your writing on global issues such as migration, global health, cultural exchange, or climate change.

Wondering what an outstanding IB Extended Essay looks like? The International Baccalaureate provides quite a few sample student essays online . Here are five essays that earned A grades.

Language and literature: An exploration of an aspect of the narrative voice in Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita

Environmental Systems and Societies: The economic impact of the 1995 reintroduction of grey wolves to Yellowstone National Park

Psychology: To what extent do social networking sites (SNS) usage lead to experience of anxiety in adolescents?

Music: Composition techniques in the 1st movement of Johannes Brahms’s Symphony No. 2, Op. 73

Business Management: Corporate Culture at Oracle

1) Pick something you’re passionate about

As you can see from the titles above, the IB Extended Essay is a great place to delve into a niche topic that fascinates you. Since you’ll be spending many months on this essay, you’ll want to pick a topic you genuinely enjoy spending time learning about. It’s also smart to choose something you’ve already learned about in your IB classes so that you have a strong foundation of knowledge to start with. In music class, do you love pondering why music makes us feel a certain way? Maybe an essay about music theory will keep your gears turning. Do you come alive trying to solve seemingly impossible problems in physics class? Now’s your chance to put those equations into action.

Since this essay is all about your academic interests, it’s also a good idea to pick a topic that’s relevant to what you plan to study in college. Selecting a relevant topic will provide you with significant exposure to the field and will also give you something meaningful to talk about in your college admissions essays.

2) Limit your scope

What’s the meaning of life? Why do wars happen? What is time? Some questions are just way too big to answer, and your IB Extended Essay is not a good place to tackle expansive, philosophical questions. Instead, think of this essay as a place to investigate one piece of a big question. If, let’s say, you’re generally interested in what helps women reach positions of leadership in business, this is a good place to examine how one or a few companies approach this issue. Or, if you’re interested in studying what inspires surrealist painters, you’ll want to pick one or a few painters to research, likely all from the same time period. For both these topics, you’d need a whole textbook to tackle the full question, but limiting your scope will make it much easier to write a clear and cohesive 4,000 words.

On the other hand, it’s possible to narrow your focus too much. It would be impossible, for example, to write 4,000 words about a single sentence in a novel. Make sure you talk about scope early and often with your mentor. Together, you can find the perfect Goldilocks scope for your project that’s not too big and not too small.

3) Choose a good mentor

Speaking of mentors, choosing wisely will help you enormously as you embark on your IB Extended Essay. You’ll want to make sure you choose someone with existing knowledge in your research topic. Your English teacher may be able to give you great writing advice, for example, but they won’t be able to guide your research and scope if you’re writing about marine animals or modern dance.

Before you approach a teacher, make sure you have at least one topic idea (or even a few ideas) in mind so that you can make sure they’ll be a good fit to supervise your project. When you meet with them, find out what their mentorship style is like. Make sure they’ll have time to read several drafts of your essays, meet with you a few times, and give you feedback. Some IB schools will require your IB Extended Essay mentor to sign an agreement form too, so make sure you find out what paperwork is required in advance.

4) Get organized, way organized

The IB Extended Essay is not something you can crank out the night before it’s due. The essay is meant to be a substantive, in-depth, thoughtful, and thoroughly researched analysis, and Rome simply isn’t built in a day. This might be the longest paper you’ve written to date, and this project might require more research than you’ve been asked to do before. Timelines vary by school, but you’ll likely spend between eight months and a year working on your IB Extended Essay. So, how will you pull it all off? For these 8-12 months, organization will be your guiding light. We recommend you:

• Get started early. If your essay is due November of your senior year, start generating topic ideas during your junior year right after winter break.
• Create a long-view schedule for yourself. What will you accomplish each month of your process?
• Give yourself deadlines. Once you choose a mentor, suggest 2-3 draft deadline dates so that you will be held accountable throughout the writing process.
• Find a note-taking system that works for you. You’ll be reading many articles and books and it’s hard to keep track of all your sources. Create a document or spreadsheet where you keep track of the sources you’ve found and check them off as you read. As you finish reading a text, type up important quotes and a few notes explaining how it connects to your topic and to your other texts.

5)Write a messy first draft

Writing never comes out perfect the first time, even for New York Times bestselling authors and the most experienced researchers. In your first draft, give yourself permission to get all your thoughts out, no matter how unstructured or rambling they are. Call this your brainstorming draft. When you’re ready to revisit it, see what patterns emerge, what common ideas you can group together, what beginning buds of ideas you can make bloom into full-fledged analysis.

6) Communicate for an audience

When you’re used to producing writing that only your teacher reads, it can be hard to remember to write for an audience. But at the end of the day, writing is communication , and the best writing is clear and thorough communication that anyone could pick up and read. For your IB Extended Essay, you’ll want to remember that many people will be reading your final essay, and not all of them will be experts in the niche topic you choose to study. Ask yourself: how can I explain my research to an audience who doesn’t already agree with my analysis?

To communicate to an audience, you’ll want to:

• Provide lots of general background information on your topic.
• Don’t assume your reader is familiar with your sources. Introduce them as if they’re guest speakers about to walk up to a podium and deliver a lecture.
• After including quotes, facts, and figures, be sure to explain what those sources mean in your own words and how they connect to your bigger-picture argument.
• Don’t assume your arguments are self-evident. In this essay, communicating for an audience means supplying ongoing interpretation and analysis, even if it feels like you’re explaining the obvious. Your reader isn’t on your research journey with you, so your points might not be so obvious to your reader.

Although your IB Extended Essay provides a report that factors into your grade, your essay will also be assessed by external examiners the IB. Per the IB Extended Essay Rubric , essays are graded on a scale from 0 to 34 based on 5 different criteria:

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

As you can see, Critical Thinking is the most significant rubric category. This means that the IB wants to see you arrive at your own unique analysis of your topic, drawing connections between sources and data, and making well-supported arguments. This means they want a lot of you: your ideas, your interpretations, your thoughts. Make sure you emphasize that in your essay, but of course don’t forget the other categories.

The score a student receives corresponds to a letter grade scale that is slightly different than what we’re accustomed to in the U.S. Here’s the letter grade to numerical score breakdown:

You must earn a D or higher to receive your IB Diploma. To learn more about the different criteria included in the IB Extended Essay Rubric, you can explore the IB’s full guide to the Extended Essay .

We hope you found our look at the IB extended essay rubric and IB extended essay topics to be helpful. Ready to dive into research? You may want to read our 10 Expert Tips for Improving Reading Comprehension before you hit the books.

And if you’re a high school student in the process of mapping out your pathway to college, take a look at a few other useful guides:

• IB vs AP—Which Classes are Best for College Admission?
• How to Earn College Credit in High School
• High School Course Requirements for College Admission
• SAT Score Calculator
• ACT Score Calculator 
• High School Success

Christina Wood

Christina Wood holds a BA in Literature & Writing from UC San Diego, an MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, and is currently a Doctoral Candidate in English at the University of Georgia, where she teaches creative writing and first-year composition courses. Christina has published fiction and nonfiction in numerous publications, including The Paris Review , McSweeney’s , Granta , Virginia Quarterly Review , The Sewanee Review , Mississippi Review , and Puerto del Sol , among others. Her story “The Astronaut” won the 2018 Shirley Jackson Award for short fiction and received a “Distinguished Stories” mention in the 2019 Best American Short Stories anthology.

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Extended essay

The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.

One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all students.

Read about the extended essay  in greater detail.

You can also read about how the IB sets deadlines for the extended essay , find examples of extended essay titles from previous DP students and learn about the world studies extended essay .

Learn more about the extended essay in a DP workshop for teachers . 

DP subject briefs

Find out about what each subject offers within the Diploma Programme (DP).

Our DP subject briefs—for both standard and higher level—contain information about core requirements, aims and assessment.

• Explore the DP subject briefs

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Extended Essay

Extended Essay Outline

Extended Essay Outline Made Easy: Components, Writing Steps, & Tips

Published on: May 7, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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Are you struggling to get started with your extended essay? Do you find it difficult to get a clear direction for your essay? 

Don’t worry!

Organizing your ideas and research into an outline is a good way to begin. Creating an outline for your extended essay can help you stay organized and focused, making the writing process much easier.

In this blog, we'll explore the steps and tips that will help you write an effective outline. By the end of this guide, you'll have the tools for creating a well-structured extended essay outline.

So let's dive in!

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Understanding the Extended Essay

The extended essay is a 4,000-word research paper for students pursuing the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.

It is a form of academic writing that allows students to explore a topic of their choice in depth. The extended essay requires students to undertake independent research and produce an original argument on their chosen topic.

Purpose of an Extended Essay

Its primary purpose is to prepare students for university-level coursework and develop their research writing skills. 

Engaging the students with a subject they are passionate about, it helps them develop their critical thinking and research skills . An extended essay also encourages the students to demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research. 

Here is a short video you can watch to learn more about the extended essay:

Why is an Extended Essay Outline Important?

When writing an extended essay, creating a tentative outline before you start is necessary. Here is why making an extended essay outline important:

• Creating an outline ensures that the writer stays on track and focused on the research question. 
• It also helps to identify any potential gaps or weaknesses in the argument. So you get an opportunity to address them before submitting your final draft. 
• Moreover, an outline helps to organize thoughts and ideas, making the writing process much easier and more efficient.

Components of an Extended Essay Outline

An extended essay outline typically includes an introduction, main body, and conclusion. Each of these sections has specific components that are crucial for a well-structured and coherent essay. 

Let’s discuss each component in depth:

Introduction

The introduction is the first section of the essay and sets the stage for the reader. It should provide background information on the topic. Such as any relevant context, history, or existing literature. 

The introduction should also include thesis statement that summarizes the main argument of the essay. A well-crafted introduction will capture the reader's attention and provide a clear understanding of the essay's purpose.

• Background Information

The background information section of the introduction provides context and background knowledge on the topic. 

It helps the reader understand the significance of the topic and the research question. It can also include any relevant historical, cultural, or social factors that contribute to the topic.

• Thesis Statement

The thesis statement summarizes the main argument of the essay and should be included at the end of the introduction. 

It should be clear, concise, and specific. Moreover, it should express the research question and main points of the essay. A well-crafted thesis statement will provide a roadmap for the essay and guide the reader through the main argument.

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The main body of the essay includes the main points and supporting evidence that provide evidence for the thesis statement. The main body should be organized into sections and body paragraphs, with each section focusing on a specific main point. 

Each section of the main body aims to discuss your argument in detail. The section could be further divided into body paragraphs so you can delve deeper into your argument. 

Here is what you need to include in your body paragraphs:

• Topic Sentences

The topic sentence is the first sentence of a paragraph that expresses its main point. 

The central argument of the paragraph should be supported by evidence and contribute to the overall thesis of the essay. The main points should be organized logically and clearly in the main body.

• Supporting Evidence

The supporting evidence includes data, examples, and quotes that support the main points and thesis statement. The evidence should be credible and relevant and should be properly cited using the appropriate citation style.

The conclusion is the final section of the essay. It provides a summary of the main argument and implications of the research. 

Here is what you should include in the conclusion: 

• Restate Thesis

The conclusion should begin by restating the thesis statement in different words to reinforce the main argument of the essay.

• Summarize Main Points

The conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and connect them to the thesis statement. It should provide a clear understanding of how the evidence supports the main argument of the essay.

• Discuss Implications

The conclusion should conclude with a discussion of the implications of the research. This can include implications for future research, policy, or practice. A well-crafted conclusion will leave the reader with a clear understanding of the significance of the research and its implications.

Extended Essay Outline Examples

Here are two extended essay outline examples. Take a look to understand the outlines better.

Extended Essay Outline Sample

Example of Extended Essay Outline

So how do you go about writing an effective outline? Read on to find out.

Steps for Writing an Extended Essay Outline

Outlining your extended essay is one of the first steps in the writing process, and it may prove to be difficult. However, it could become easier if you follow certain steps: 

Here is what you need to prepare your outline.

Step 1: Define your Essay Topic and Main Thesis

The first step is to select a topic of your choice. The topic should be something you are passionate about. It should also be relevant to the your subject area or discipline.

Before deciding a topic, consider the available resources and the feasibility of the research. Ensure that it is not too broad. You can do this by taking time to brainstorm and refine ideas. You could also talk to your teacher to help you narrow down your topic. 

Once you have your topic or main idea, you can proceed with the research.

Step 2: Research the Topic 

Conduct research to gather information and develop an understanding of the topic. You could use various sources, including books, academic journals, and online resources to gather information. 

While you research, you should take notes, highlight essential points, and keep track of sources used. 

Be sure to evaluate sources critically to ensure that they are reliable and relevant to your topic. The research process will help you identify potential evidence, which will help you refine your main argument.

Step 3: Identify the Supporting Points and Evidence

After developing a main thesis and doing some research, you need to identify the supporting points that support your thesis.

Your research will help you find and derive relevant supporting points for your thesis. So pick up the notes you made along the way, and analyze the information you can use as your supporting points. 

These points will later become the topic sentences of your body paragraphs. So ensure that all of them are related to your main thesis. 

Also, note that not all information derived from your research will be relevant or necessary. So you need to pick and choose your evidence wisely to create an original argument.

Step 4: Organizing your Outline

The main topic, thesis statement, supporting points, and evidence is all you need to make a structured outline. Once you have them all, arrange them in a logical and coherent way to write your outline.

Here is an extended essay outline template you could use. Simply fill in the blanks with the information you have already gathered, and you’ll have your well-structured outline.

Extended Essay Outline Template

Tips for Writing an Effective Extended Essay Outline

Simply following the steps above is often not enough for your outline to be effective. Here are some tips to help you write an effective outline:

• Start Early: 

Give yourself enough time to research, plan, and write your extended essay. Starting early allows you to have enough time to develop your thesis. 

You can also easily gather supporting evidence and do research without worrying about the approaching deadline.

• Be Specific: 

Make sure your research question is specific and focused. This will help you stay on track and ensure that your essay is well-organized and focused on the topic.

• Use Clear and Concise Language: 

Use clear and concise language when writing your outline. This will help you stay focused on your research question and ensure that your essay is well-organized.

• Focus on Main Points: 

When developing your outline, focus on the main points that support your thesis statement. Each main point should be supported by evidence and contribute to the overall argument of the essay.

• Use Appropriate Formatting: 

Use appropriate formatting for your outline, including headings, subheadings, and bullet points. This will make it easy to read and understand, and help you stay organized.

• Revise and Edit: 

Once you have created your outline, revise and edit it to ensure that it is well-organized and coherent. Make sure that each section of the outline flows logically from one to the next.

• Seek Feedback: 

Get feedback from your teacher or supervisor on your outline. This will help you identify any areas that need improvement or revision. 

By following these tips, you can create an effective extended essay outline that will help you stay on track throughout the writing process.

An extended essay outline is an essential tool for students pursuing the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma program. 

Creating an effective outline helps to ensure that your essay is well-organized, focused, and easy to read and understand. By following the steps and tips given above, you can create an excellent extended essay outline.

However, if you find yourself in need of additional support and guidance, CollegeEssay.org is here for you. 

We are a custom essay writing service with a team of professional writers. We can assist you in crafting an outstanding extended essay that meets all the necessary requirements. 

From outlining to editing and beyond, our Essay Writer AI is designed to help you achieve your academic goals.

So contact our extended essay writing service today to get the best essay help.

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Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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Extended Essay: Step 7. Identify & Annotate Sources

• Extended Essay- The Basics
• Step 1. Choose a Subject
• Step 2. Educate yourself!
• Using Brainstorming and Mind Maps
• Identify Keywords
• Do Background Reading
• Define Your Topic
• Conduct Research in a Specific Discipline
• Step 5. Draft a Research Question
• Step 6. Create a Timeline
• Find Articles
• Find Primary Sources
• Get Help from Experts
• Search Engines, Repositories, & Directories
• Databases and Websites by Subject Area
• Create an Annotated Bibliography
• Advice (and Warnings) from the IB
• Chicago Citation Syle
• MLA Works Cited & In-Text Citations
• Step 9. Set Deadlines for Yourself
• Step 10. Plan a structure for your essay
• Evaluate & Select: the CRAAP Test
• Conducting Secondary Research
• Conducting Primary Research
• Formal vs. Informal Writing
• Presentation Requirements
• Evaluating Your Work

The Research Process

See this page for information on:

Annotating Sources: Origin, Purpose, Value, Limitation Selecting appropriate information Why you need a range of sources Searching effectively in databases and on the Internet Using Boolean Operators Cautions from IB on using online encyclopedias (such as Wikipedia)

Annotating Sources: Origin, Purpose, Value, Limitation

Questions to answer in your annotation of each source

• Who wrote and/or published this piece?
• Is there evidence that they are qualified and/or credible to discuss and/or comment on the topic?

ORIGIN - the annotation

This is a [type of article] from [name of specific source] accessed through [name of the database].

ORIGIN - annotation examples:

• This is a reference article from the E ncyclopedia of Countries and Their Cultures accessed through the Gale in Context High School database.
• The World factbook is a website developed and published by the CIA .

• Imagine yourself in the author's shoes.
• What was the author's purpose in writing and/or sharing this piece?

PURPOSE - the annotation:

This article was published by the author to:

• entertain...
• persuade...
• help people understand...
• raise awareness of...
• advocate for...

PURPOSE - annotation example:

• This article was published by the author to educate people on the basic facts about Afghanistan's geography and culture.

• How is this source useful to YOU?
• Does it help your knowledge, learning, or understanding of the topic?
• Does it offer a unique insight, viewpoint, or perspective on the topic?

VALUE  - the annotation:

This article is valuable to me for my research because it helps me...

VALUE  - annotation examples:

• This article is valuable to me for this part of my research because it helps me to understand some of the basic facts about the government and culture of Singapore.

• How might this source be limited or incomplete in its coverage of the topic?
• What might be missing?
• What does the author leave out?

LIMITATION   - the annotation:

This article is limited for my research because ...

LIMITATION   - annotation examples:

• This article is limited for my research because it was published in 2013 which might mean that some of the statistics have changed over time.

Selecting appropriate information

Using boolean operators, cautions from ib on using online encyclopedias (such as wikipedia) and other similar information websites.

• they tend to be general encyclopedias
• very often the author is unknown
• there is no guarantee that the content meets standards of academic rigor —it may not, for example, have been through a process of peer review
• the content can be unstable , in that it can change at any time.

Your teachers and EE supervisor may choose to caution you against using free online encyclopedias and other similar information websites. A bibliography that only cites these for reference or an argument that is overly reliant on them will not demonstrate the necessary “range of sources” required by the assessment criteria for the extended essay. They may also not be relevant or appropriate for the research question being explored.

Many online encyclopedias are not scholarly sources; however, if used appropriately and critically they can offer a useful starting point when undertaking research. 

If using free online encyclopedias, do the following.

• Follow the references provided by the encyclopedia; this will help to verify the information given.
• Consider whether the article is part of a larger project, where a number of people are contributing to the discussion. If it is, then it implies that the writers have more than a casual interest in the topic being written about.
• Look to see if there is a rating for the information provided. If there is then this means that the information has undergone some sort of peer review and been given a rating. While not the same as an academic peer review, it can aid the judgment of the “quality” of the information.

The key point to remember, if you do use information that is found on the Internet, is that you are responsible for ensuring that it is both reliable and accurate. One way to make sure you are considering the quality of your sources is to produce an annotated bibliography as part of your Researcher’s reflection space. An annotated bibliography provides a concise summary of each source and some assessment of its value and relevance.

A good annotated bibliography will:

• encourage you to think critically about the sources you are using and how these relate to  yourchosen research area in terms of their relevance 
• provide a way to help you determine whether a source is of use to you in your research
• allow you to keep track of your reading and enable you  to make informed decisions about which sources to use in writing your essay.

Adapted from "The research and writing process; Academic integrity, Using online encyclopedias and other similar information websites", from Extended Essay Guide , International Baccalaureate Organization, 2018.

Twelve-step Plan for Researching the Extended Essay - Step 7

7.  Begin to identify how and where you will gather source material for your research.

Why you Need a Range of Sources

There are many information sources, from the obvious ones like books, magazines, newspapers and Internet sites to those you may not immediately think of such as maps, annual reports, conference proceedings and theses.  All sources have strengths and weaknesses and you should consider these when deciding on the most appropriate sources to use in your research.

Searching effectively in databases and on the Internet

By using effective search techniques you can find useful, relevant information without having to waste lots of time trawling through all those unwanted search results!

Use these tips to help you search a variety of information sources including databases, library catalogs, and the Internet.

• If you have a choice, choose the Advanced Search  option, it will allow you to limit your search in a number of ways.
• When planning your search, remember to use the keywords you identified in the 'Define' section.
• Don't forget to use Boolean Operators (find more information on this page) to create your search strings.
• The truncation symbol (*) can be used to find variations of a keyword that begin with the same letters.  For example econom* would find economy, economic, economics, economical etc.
• Keep track of the searches you use so you don't go round in circles.  Note down particularly useful search strings.
• Use quotation marks to group a number of words together (ie "Top Gear" would search for all results with the phrase 'Top Gear' but would ignore those where 'top' and 'gear' only appear seperately).
• Verify important information by looking for the same information in a number of reliable sources.

Bookmarking & Organizing Tools

• << Previous: Step 6. Create a Timeline
• Next: Find Books >>
• Last Updated: Apr 12, 2024 2:56 PM
• URL: https://libguides.westsoundacademy.org/ee