How to Write a High-Scoring IB Economics IA Report (2025 Guide)
Writing an effective IB Economics Internal Assessment (IA) is crucial for demonstrating your understanding of economic theory, application, and evaluation. A strong IA combines clear structure, precise terminology, relevant diagrams, and thoughtful analysis. This guide outlines seven essential tips to help you craft a focused and high-quality commentary that meets IB criteria.
Structure Your IA Clearly
A clear structure is key to achieving a top score. Most successful Economics IAs include these sections.
Begin with an introduction of around 75 to 100 words. This should provide a brief summary of the article and outline the real-world economic issue it addresses. Introduce the key economic concept that will be the focus of your analysis. It is important to use economic terminology accurately and in context.
Follow this with a section on the underlying economic problem. This section, about 100 words in length, explains the specific issue highlighted in the article, such as inflation, unemployment, or market failure. Support your explanation with a well-labelled economic diagram that directly illustrates the problem.
The next section should analyze the proposed policy and its intended effects. This part, approximately 200 to 250 words, explains how the policy aims to address the problem. Use diagrams to show relevant changes in supply, demand, or other economic relationships. Reference the diagrams throughout your explanation so that they are fully integrated into your analysis.
Then provide an evaluation of unintended effects and stakeholder impact. In 250 to 300 words, critically assess the policy by discussing its limitations, possible unintended consequences, and effects on various stakeholders, including consumers, producers, the government, and society. Use evidence from the article and apply relevant economic theory.
Conclude with a brief summary of about 75 words. Restate the purpose of the policy and your main evaluation points. Do not introduce new ideas or arguments in the conclusion.
Use Economic Terminology Precisely
Demonstrate your understanding of economic concepts by using precise, subject-specific language. For example, use terms like consumer, producer, expenditure, and subsidy correctly. Definitions are not required but, if included, should follow the term’s use in context. Avoid general or vague wording and aim for clear, analytical expression throughout your commentary.
Integrate Diagrams Effectively
A well-constructed IA includes at least one relevant diagram that helps explain both the problem and the proposed solution. Make sure your diagrams are neat, clearly labelled, and easy to understand. Reference them directly in your text, using them to support your points. A strong IA uses the diagram as an integral part of the analysis rather than as an afterthought.
Use Evidence and Quotes from the Article
Support your commentary with key details from the article. Include data, quotes, or examples that directly reinforce your analysis and evaluation. Where possible, paraphrase information to save word count and improve flow. If you use quotations, keep them concise and relevant. Use ellipses to omit unnecessary parts of a quote while maintaining clarity.
Focus Your Analysis and Evaluation
Choose one main economic concept or theory to apply and stay focused on that in your commentary. Build a detailed evaluation that considers both short-term and long-term effects, impacts on different stakeholders, and any limitations or trade-offs involved in the policy. Avoid broad generalisations and ensure all points are specific and supported by evidence or theory.
Manage Word Count and Presentation
Your IA should be between 750 and 800 words. To stay within this limit, write concisely and avoid repetition. Use clear section headings to make the report easy to follow. Include a cover page with your IA title, IB candidate number, the article source, and the date. A well-presented IA not only meets formal requirements but also helps examiners follow your argument more easily.
Choose a Suitable Article
Select an article that is recent, relevant, and concise (ideally no longer than one A4 page). The article should present a clear economic issue and policy response, allowing for meaningful analysis and evaluation. An appropriate article gives you the opportunity to apply economic theory effectively and produce a well-developed commentary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the ideal word count for an IB Economics IA?
The ideal word count is between 750 and 800 words, excluding diagrams, references, and cover page details.
How many diagrams should I include in my Economics IA?
Include at least one well-labelled, relevant diagram. High-scoring IAs often integrate two or more diagrams where necessary to illustrate both the problem and the policy response.
Can I choose any article for my Economics IA?
Your article should be recent (published within the past year), concise, and focused on an economic issue with a clear policy response. It should provide enough depth for applying theory and conducting evaluation.
How do I ensure my IA meets IB criteria?
Focus on clear structure, precise terminology, integrated diagrams, thoughtful evaluation, and relevance to economic theory. Ensure all points are supported by evidence or well-reasoned argument.
Should I define all economic terms in my IA?
Definitions are not mandatory. Instead, demonstrate your understanding by using economic terms accurately in context.
Is it acceptable to quote directly from the article?
Yes, but keep quotes short and relevant. Where possible, paraphrase to save word count while retaining key ideas.
Conclusion
A high-scoring IB Economics IA is well-structured, focused on a specific economic issue, and demonstrates clear understanding of economic theory through accurate terminology, well-integrated diagrams, and thoughtful evaluation. By applying these seven tips, you can produce a commentary that meets IB expectations and showcases your analytical skills.
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