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IB Extended Essay Guide

A practical guide to the Extended Essay: an independent research paper of up to 4,000 words.

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What the Extended Essay is

1

The Extended Essay, or EE, is an independent research paper of up to 4,000 words on a topic in one of your IB subjects. It is part of the Diploma core and, with TOK, can add up to 3 bonus points.

2

It rewards organised, honest research and a clear argument.

Choosing a subject and topic

Choose a subject you enjoy and where you can find enough sources. Then narrow a broad area into a focused topic you can finish well in the time you have.

Working with your supervisor

  1. You will have a supervisor at school. Plan to meet regularly, bring drafts and use the three reflection sessions to record how your thinking developed. The process finishes with a short concluding interview.
  2. Your supervisor is your first point of contact for the rules and the criteria.

Planning the work

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About 40 hours of work is the usual recommendation. Break it into stages: topic, research question, reading, outline, first draft, revision and final checks, and put dates against each.

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Starting early gives you time to change direction without panic.

How a tutor can help

  1. A tutor can help you test your research question, build an outline and read a draft for clarity and structure. The research and writing must remain yours.
  2. Tell us your subject and timeline and we will help you find a suitable tutor.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the IB Extended Essay?

Up to 4,000 words.

How many hours should I spend on the EE?

About 40 hours is the usual recommendation.

Can a tutor write my Extended Essay?

No. A tutor can help you plan, question and revise, but the essay must be your own work.

Plan your IB core work

Share your subject, your topic idea and your deadlines through the consultation form and our team will help you find a suitable tutor.