Theory of Knowledge, or TOK, is a course about how we know what we claim to know. Instead of adding new content, it asks you to examine knowledge across your other subjects and in everyday life.
A clear guide to Theory of Knowledge: what it asks you to think about and how it is assessed.
Theory of Knowledge, or TOK, is a course about how we know what we claim to know. Instead of adding new content, it asks you to examine knowledge across your other subjects and in everyday life.
It is part of the Diploma core, alongside the Extended Essay and CAS.
The course has a core theme, Knowledge and the knower, and two optional themes chosen by your school. It also looks at five areas of knowledge: History, Human Sciences, Natural Sciences, Mathematics and The Arts.
Practise explaining a knowledge question with a clear claim, a counterclaim and real examples. Keep a short log of examples from your own subjects, since concrete examples make TOK writing much stronger.
A tutor can discuss your ideas and review plans and drafts against the criteria, while the work remains your own.
The TOK exhibition, which is internal, and the TOK essay, which is externally assessed.
Up to 1,600 words, on one of six prescribed titles issued by the IB for each session.
A tutor can help you understand the course, plan your arguments and review drafts against the criteria. You remain the author of your work.
Share your subject, your topic idea and your deadlines through the consultation form and our team will help you find a suitable tutor.