Quick answer
IB marking needs markband descriptor language, not generic essay grades. MarkScheme ([markscheme.app/mark](/mark)) gives criterion-style feedback on uploaded handwriting for IB Diploma HL, SL, and Core, alongside free [IB courses](/ib/courses). Use it as a second pass after you self-assess against the official markband column — not as a replacement for reading the subject guide.
Generic ChatGPT often praises structure while missing whether your answer fits the best-fit band. That is the same failure mode as generous self-marking.
What good IB AI marking looks like
For Cambridge best Cambridge and IB revision tools, useful feedback for IB revision:
- References assessment objectives (AO1–AO3) and command terms for that paper
- Quotes markband descriptors your answer hits or misses
- Anchors comments to your uploaded script, not a model essay
- Separates Paper 1 / 2 / 3 demands (e.g. case study application vs ERQ depth)
Weak feedback:
- A single numeric grade with no band evidence
- Generic “good analysis” without criterion mapping
- Ignoring HL extensions or word limits
Where students get misled
This section covers Where students get misled — ranked by what Cambridge examiners return to most often in past papers.
- Markbands are holistic — models default to mid-band safe scores.
- Subject-specific criteria differ — an Economics Paper 1 case response is not a Psychology ERQ.
- Training data ? your session’s guide — syllabus changes (e.g. 2025 sciences) matter.
A healthy workflow
For Cambridge best Cambridge and IB revision tools, pair with [IB markbands explained](/blog/ib-markbands-explained) and subject paper guides (e.g. [Economics Paper 1](/blog/ib-economics-paper-1-guide), [Psychology ERQ](/blog/ib-psychology-erq-essay-guide)).
- Attempt under timed conditions.
- Self-place into a markband using the official column — highlight descriptor phrases.
- Run MarkScheme on the same upload for a second read.
- Redo one skill (application, synthesis, evaluation) — not the whole portfolio.
How MarkScheme differs from Revision Village or ChatGPT
Revision Village is excellent for maths question reps; MarkScheme targets your written responses across Diploma subjects plus [free IB courses](/ib/courses).
| Tool | Strength | Marking your handwriting |
|---|---|---|
| Revision Village | IB Maths question volume | Worked solutions, not your script |
| ChatGPT | Explaining concepts | Not markband-calibrated |
| MarkScheme | Criterion practice + courses across subjects | Yes — photo upload |
Ethics
This section covers Ethics — ranked by what Cambridge examiners return to most often in past papers.
- Published past papers & practice — fair game.
- Live exams or IA drafts under school rules — follow your coordinator’s AI policy.
- Academic integrity — never upload live assessment materials.
Frequently asked questions
This section covers Frequently asked questions — ranked by what Cambridge examiners return to most often in past papers.
Can AI mark IB TOK or the Extended Essay?
Use AI to brainstorm or clarify criteria, but long-form Core work needs human supervision. MarkScheme’s TOK and EE courses teach structure; criterion marking on shorter practice tasks helps before drafts.
Is MarkScheme only for IB Sciences?
No — Business Management, Psychology, Economics, languages, maths, and more have courses and marking support. Browse /ib/courses.