1. Title Page
- Include the title of the essay
- Clearly state the research question
- Specify the subject (for language essays, indicate the category; for world studies, mention the theme and two subjects)
- Provide the word count
- If footnotes are used beyond referencing, include a statement that explanatory footnotes are counted in the word count
- Write your student code (you may receive this later. Do NOT write your name.)
2. Contents Page
- Provide a clear and organized contents page at the beginning
- Number all pages correctly
- Do not include an index page (if included, it will be ignored)
3. Introduction
- Clearly state the focus of the essay
- Define the scope of research and mention key sources
- Provide insight into the line of argument
- Consider finalizing the introduction after completing the essay to ensure it aligns with the content
4. Body of the Essay (Research, Analysis, Discussion, Evaluation)
- Develop a reasoned argument based on evidence
- Clearly show:
- What evidence was discovered
- Where and how it was discovered
- How it supports the argument
- Use sub-headings if necessary (especially for science essays)
- Follow the expected conventions of the registered subject
- Ensure all key information is within the essay itself, not in appendices or footnotes (unless required by subject guidelines)
5. Conclusion
- Summarize what has been achieved in the essay
- Mention limitations and unresolved questions
- Ensure the final conclusion directly relates to the research question
6. References & Bibliography
- Use a consistent academic referencing style throughout the essay
- Cite sources while writing, not afterward
- Follow IB guidelines on effective citing and referencing
7. Final Review
- Utilize the Researcher’s Reflection Space and reflection sessions for preparation
- Ensure the essay is complete, well-structured, and properly cited
- Check for clarity, coherence, and logical progression
- Verify that all required components are included
- Perform a thorough grammar and spell check
- Ensure the essay adheres to the word limit
- Confirm that all figures, tables, and diagrams are correctly labeled and referenced
Check out www.testace.net for IB past papers and other FREE guides. Good luck!