Overview
For the IB Diploma Programme, the Extended Essay is your chance to prove you can research like an undergraduate — and it can add up to three bonus points with TOK. This guide covers criteria, structure, and the habits that separate a C from an A.
Understanding the IB Extended Essay assessment
The EE is a 4,000-word research essay in one of 34+ subjects, externally marked on five criteria: focus/method (A), knowledge (B), critical thinking (C), presentation (D), and engagement (RPPF). Together with TOK, it can add up to 3 bonus diploma points. Browse the full subject overview at [IB Extended Essay](/ib/subjects/extended-essay).
Markbands and what examiners reward
For the IB Diploma Programme, each criterion uses bands. A 7 in the EE requires a narrow research question, systematic methodology, sustained argument, proper academic citation, and authentic reflection in the RPPF.
A past paper workflow that actually works
For the IB Diploma Programme, month 1: question + sources. Month 2: outline + draft body. Month 3: revise for argument and citation. Final weeks: presentation polish + RPPF. Meet your supervisor deadlines.
Paper-specific tips
Research question must be arguable, not descriptive. Use primary sources where possible. Every paragraph should advance the argument — cut tangents ruthlessly.
Common pitfalls
For the IB Diploma Programme, too broad a question; last-minute RPPF; poor citation (academic honesty); descriptive essays without evaluation; ignoring word limit buffers.
Using MarkScheme for targeted feedback
Self-marking against band descriptors is essential, but extended responses benefit from a second opinion. After a past paper or IA section, [get criterion-based feedback](/mark?subject=ib-extended-essay) aligned with IB assessment objectives — the same habits that lift exam scripts also sharpen coursework drafts.
Our free Extended Essay course links every syllabus topic to lessons, flashcards, and practice tasks. Revise syllabus-by-syllabus with topic practice — each point links to a lesson and criterion marking task.
Frequently asked questions
This section covers Frequently asked questions — what IB examiners reward most often in past papers and coursework.
How many sources?
Quality over quantity — typically 15–25 academic sources for humanities; fewer for tightly experimental sciences.
Does EE topic match HL subject?
Recommended but not required — you need a qualified supervisor in that subject.
Free course?
Work through our Extended Essay course with criterion-linked lessons.