Criterion A: Focus and method
Assesses the clarity of the research question and the appropriateness of the methodology.
The Extended Essay is a core component of the IB Diploma Programme. It asks you to pursue an independent research project in a DP subject of your choice, guided by a school supervisor. IB Tutoring Academy provides structured support at every stage — from choosing a subject and refining a research question to aligning drafts with the assessment criteria and managing your timeline.
The Extended Essay (EE) is a mandatory core element of the IB Diploma Programme, alongside Theory of Knowledge and CAS. It is an independent research paper that lets you explore a topic of genuine interest within one of your DP subjects.
You work under the guidance of a school-appointed supervisor who provides advice on the research process and reads one draft. The final essay is externally assessed by IB examiners and contributes core points toward your diploma total when combined with your TOK grade.
A good research question is specific, focused, and answerable within the word limit. It should be phrased as a question, not a statement, and it must allow for analysis rather than only description.
Test your question against the subject's criteria: does it invite critical thinking, evaluation of evidence, and a reasoned argument?
A question like "To what extent does X affect Y in context Z?" typically works better than "What are the effects of X?" because it sets up a clear line of argument.
Narrow the topic until it can be answered within the word limit and with the time and data available to you.
The subject determines which assessment criteria apply and what kinds of sources and methods are appropriate.
Confirm your refined question with your school supervisor before proceeding.
Assesses the clarity of the research question and the appropriateness of the methodology.
Evaluates knowledge and understanding of the topic in its academic context.
Looks at analysis, evaluation, and the development of a reasoned argument.
Covers structure, layout, referencing, and adherence to the word limit.
Judges engagement through the Reflections on Planning and Progress Form, which records your three formal reflection sessions with your supervisor.
Help you refine your research question so it is specific, feasible, and aligned with the subject criteria.
Give feedback on outline structure, argument flow, and how each section addresses the assessment criteria.
Review drafts for criterion alignment — checking that analysis, evaluation, and referencing meet the expectations of Criteria B, C, and D.
Ensure presentation meets Criterion D expectations for structure, layout, and referencing.
Regular check-ins keep your timeline on track and help you prepare for the three RPPF reflection sessions.
Help you prepare thoughtful reflections for each of the three required sessions.
The first step is to complete the consultation form on the IB Tutoring Academy website. You share your DP subjects, current EE stage, and any school deadlines. We then match you with a tutor experienced in your chosen subject and arrange an initial session to review your question, outline, or draft and agree a work plan.
From there, sessions are scheduled around your timeline — whether you need weekly structure, targeted feedback on a draft, or help preparing for a reflection session. The goal is to give you a clear process so you can submit an essay that reflects your best thinking.
No. Tutors provide guidance, feedback, and accountability. The essay must be your own work, and your school supervisor must authenticate it.
Not necessarily. If you are at the topic-selection stage, the tutor can help you narrow it to a viable question.
It varies. Some students book a few sessions for question refinement and outline feedback; others work weekly across DP1 and DP2.
You share your school's deadlines during the consultation, and the tutor builds them into your plan.
Yes. Tutors help you prepare thoughtful reflections for each of the three required sessions.
Complete the consultation form and we will match you with a tutor who knows your subject and the EE criteria. Together you will set a realistic timeline and keep your essay on track from question to submission.