The Extended Essay is a core component of the IB Diploma Programme. A clear structure helps you meet the assessment criteria and keep your research argument coherent from start to finish. This guide walks through each required section in the order IB expects, with practical notes on formatting, word count, and subject-specific nuances.
A well-organised Extended Essay makes it easier for examiners to follow your argument and award marks across all criteria. The IB assesses focus and method, knowledge and understanding, critical thinking, presentation, and engagement. A logical structure directly supports the first four criteria and provides the framework for the reflections recorded on the RPPF.
Without a clear structure, strong research can become difficult to assess. Students who map out each required component before writing tend to stay within the word limit, maintain a consistent line of argument, and leave enough space for meaningful reflection.
Students who map out each required component before writing tend to stay within the word limit, maintain a consistent line of argument, and leave enough space for meaningful reflection.
A logical structure directly supports the first four criteria and provides the framework for the reflections recorded on the RPPF.
Students who map out each required component before writing tend to stay within the word limit, maintain a consistent line of argument, and leave enough space for meaningful reflection.
The IB requires the following components in this order: title page, contents page, introduction, body of the essay, conclusion, references and bibliography, and appendices (if used). Each component has a specific purpose and contributes to the overall presentation mark.
The title page includes the essay title, research question, subject, and word count. The contents page lists all sections with page numbers. Appendices contain supplementary material such as raw data or transcripts and are not included in the word count. The essay itself — introduction, body, and conclusion — must not exceed the maximum word limit set by the IB.
The introduction sets up the essay by providing background on the topic, defining the scope, stating the research question, and explaining why the investigation matters. It should be concise and avoid detailed analysis or evidence that belongs in the body.
The introduction sets up the essay by providing background on the topic, defining the scope, stating the research question, and explaining why the investigation matters. It should be concise and avoid detailed analysis or evidence that belongs in the body.
A strong introduction signals the academic discipline and methodology. For example, a History EE might outline the historical debate; a Biology EE might describe the experimental approach. The introduction ends by previewing how the essay will address the research question.
A strong introduction signals the academic discipline and methodology. For example, a History EE might outline the historical debate; a Biology EE might describe the experimental approach. The introduction ends by previewing how the essay will address the research question.
The introduction sets up the essay by providing background on the topic, defining the scope, stating the research question, and explaining why the investigation matters. It should be concise and avoid detailed analysis or evidence that belongs in the body.
The conclusion answers the research question directly, summarises the main findings, and acknowledges any limitations or unresolved questions. It should not introduce new evidence.
The conclusion answers the research question directly, summarises the main findings, and acknowledges any limitations or unresolved questions. It should not introduce new evidence.
The conclusion answers the research question directly, summarises the main findings, and acknowledges any limitations or unresolved questions. It should not introduce new evidence.
The Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF) is a separate, mandatory document where you record three formal reflections on your research process, challenges, and learning.
The RPPF is assessed under criterion E (engagement). Authentic, specific reflections — not generic statements — score higher. Tutors can help you identify meaningful moments to reflect on throughout the process, not just at the end.
The IB sets clear presentation rules: readable font, double spacing, numbered pages, and consistent referencing style appropriate to the subject. The word limit applies to the introduction, body, and conclusion only. The title page, contents page, references, bibliography, and appendices are excluded.
Figures, tables, and images must be labelled and referenced. Over-length essays are penalised. A final presentation checklist — font, spacing, page numbers, referencing consistency, word count verification — helps avoid avoidable mark loss.
The introduction, body, and conclusion together must not exceed the maximum word limit set by the IB. The title page, contents page, references, bibliography, and appendices are not counted.
The research question appears on the title page and is restated in the introduction. It should guide the structure of the entire essay.
The Reflections on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF) requires three formal reflections. It is assessed under criterion E (engagement).
The core formatting rules (font, spacing, page numbers, referencing consistency) apply to all subjects. The referencing style should be appropriate to the subject.
No. Appendices are for supplementary material only (raw data, transcripts, etc.). Essential argument and analysis must appear in the body of the essay.
We offer consultation to clarify your research question and outline, ongoing feedback at key drafting stages, guidance on RPPF reflections, and support aligned with IB assessment criteria.
Book a consultation to map out your EE timeline, refine your research question, and build an outline that meets IB requirements from day one.