Overview
The best IB Maths AI Exploration topic uses mathematics to model or test something real, with data you can gather or source — playing to the applied, technology-friendly strengths of Applications & Interpretation. This post gives example topics by area and shows how to turn an interest into a focused Exploration. For the full write-up on criteria and structure, see the [IB Maths AI IA guide](/blog/ib-maths-ai-ia-guide).
What makes a strong AI topic
This section covers What makes a strong AI topic — what IB examiners reward most often in past papers and coursework.
- Applied — the mathematics answers a real-world question you care about.
- Data-driven — you have (or can collect) enough data to model, fit, or test meaningfully.
- Interpreted — you don't just fit a curve; you use it to predict, optimise, or decide, then evaluate how good it is.
- Technology-supported — sensible use of your GDC, a spreadsheet, or graphing software.
Example Exploration topics by area
For the IB Diploma Programme, treat these as starting points — your data and context must be your own.
Modelling with functions
- Fitting a model to real data (population, prices, a fitness metric) — linear, exponential, or logistic — then predicting and checking accuracy.
- Cooling, growth, or decay measured yourself and modelled with an appropriate function.
- Modelling a periodic pattern (temperature, footfall, tides) with a sinusoidal function.
Statistics and testing
- A correlation or regression study — does one variable predict another in data you gathered? Discuss strength and limitations.
- A chi-squared test of independence on survey data you collect (preferences vs a grouping).
- Comparing two groups with appropriate summary statistics and a sensible test.
Optimisation and finance
- Minimising cost or maximising value in a real decision (packaging, a route, a budget).
- Loan, savings, or investment mathematics applied to a real plan, with sensible assumptions.
Geometry and networks
- Using Voronoi diagrams to model catchment areas (nearest shop, school, hospital).
- A network/graph problem — shortest route or efficient connection for a real map.
How to turn an interest into a topic
For the IB Diploma Programme, narrow in three moves: pick a real question you want answered; find or plan the data (collected, surveyed, or from a reputable source); and choose the tool — model, test, or optimisation — that answers it. Then commit to *interpreting* the result, not just computing it.
Planning your Exploration on MarkScheme
Draft early and self-mark against the official criteria before your supervisor deadline. Strengthen the methods with the free [Maths AI HL](/ib/courses/maths-ai-hl) and [SL](/ib/courses/maths-ai-sl) lessons, review [Maths AI past papers](/ib/past-papers/maths-ai-hl) for technique, and [get an answer marked](/mark) to keep exam skills sharp alongside the IA.
Frequently asked questions
This section covers Frequently asked questions — what IB examiners reward most often in past papers and coursework.
How much data do I need?
Enough to model or test meaningfully and to discuss reliability — usually dozens of points rather than a handful. Relevance and quality matter more than raw volume.
Does it need to use technology?
Yes — AI expects sensible use of graphing tools, spreadsheets, or your GDC to support (not replace) the mathematics.
AI or AA topic?
AI suits applied, data-and-modelling questions. If your idea is really about calculus, proof, or abstract structure, it fits Maths AA better.