What Not to do in the Extended Essay [IB]

Preparing for the extended essay?

Have you covered all the do’s? If yes, then the question that remains is Have you covered the don’ts?

Don’t worry we are here to help you! Go through these amazing tips before you prepare for the essay.

1. Don’t forget to read the EE guide

The IB has a very detailed guide on the Extended Essay—that most students never read! Before looking for a textbook or internet resource, read the official IB guide.

2. Don’t wait until the last minute

You really should start the EE early. As the deadline approaches, you will get unimaginably busy with other work—tests, internal assessments, college applications, etc. The EE needs a lot of time and the earlier you start, the better.

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3. Don’t bite off more than you can chew

Yes, the EE is a great opportunity to work on some independent research, and it might be the first such opportunity you’ve ever had. However, you’re not expected to revolutionize the field with your extended essay, and it’s unlikely that you’ll be the first person to write about your topic. So, pick something interesting but manageable, that is within your ability to write a great essay about.

4. Don’t forget the EE rubric and criteria

You have to remember to tailor the essay to the actual IB criteria which you will be scored on, so remember to write with those in mind.

5. Do NOT cheat

Plagiarism in any part of the IB is taken very seriously, and the EE is no exception. Your work must be totally original, and any sort of plagiarism is just not worth it. You will be caught and the consequences are severe. Citation is an important part of research in general. You should have high-quality sources that you document carefully in a bibliography.

Do not save these tips for the last and start implementing them from the beginning, this will ensure more confidence in your writing.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing an extended essay in IB?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when writing an extended essay in IB include failing to follow the guidelines and criteria, not properly citing sources, and not allowing enough time for revision and editing.

Q2: Can I use Wikipedia as a source for my extended essay in IB?

A: It’s generally not recommended to use Wikipedia as a source for your extended essay in IB, as it is not always reliable and may not meet the academic standards required for the essay. Instead, use academic sources such as books, scholarly articles, and reputable websites.

Q3: Is it acceptable to plagiarize when writing an extended essay in IB?

A: No, plagiarism is never acceptable when writing an extended essay in IB. Plagiarism is a serious academic offence that can result in severe consequences, including failing the extended essay, failing the IB diploma, and even expulsion from school.

Q4: Can I use personal anecdotes or experiences in my extended essay?

A: Yes, you can use personal anecdotes or experiences to support your argument in your extended essay. However, make sure that they are relevant to the topic and that they do not overshadow the academic content of the essay.

Q5: Should I focus more on quantity or quality when writing my extended essay?

A: You should focus more on quality than quantity when writing your extended essay. The essay should be well-researched, well-written, and demonstrate critical thinking and analysis. It’s better to have a well-written essay with a smaller number of high-quality sources than a longer essay with a larger number of low-quality sources.