Your Extended Essay (EE) introduction is the gateway to your entire investigation. A well-written introduction engages the reader, defines your research focus, and provides a clear roadmap for the essay. Here’s how to craft a high-quality EE introduction that meets IB expectations and sets a solid foundation for your work.
Introduction: Why the EE Introduction Matters
The introduction sets the tone for your EE. It helps the examiner:
✅ Understand your research question
✅ See the relevance of your investigation
✅ Follow your plan of analysis
A clear, focused introduction can make a powerful first impression and guide your reader through your essay’s argument.
Step 1: Provide Relevant Background Information
Setting the context for your topic
Introduce your subject area by giving enough background for the reader to understand:
- The broader field of study
- Key concepts or issues related to your topic
For example: If investigating climate policy, briefly outline the context of global climate agreements.
Showing awareness of the broader field
Demonstrate that you understand how your topic fits within its academic discipline. This highlights the significance of your inquiry.
Step 2: State Your Research Question Clearly
Crafting a focused, specific research question
Your research question should:
- Be precise and manageable within 4,000 words
- Invite analysis rather than simple description
Presenting it prominently in your introduction
Place your research question near the end of the introduction and format it clearly (often in bold) so it stands out.
Example:
Research question: How does Shakespeare use dramatic irony to portray the complexities of love in Romeo and Juliet?
Step 3: Explain the Significance of Your Research Question
Why your topic is worth studying
Convince your reader that your question matters. Explain how your investigation contributes to understanding the subject or addresses a meaningful issue.
Linking relevance to contemporary or historical context
Show the importance of your research in a specific context—whether it’s linked to historical events, current debates, or scholarly gaps.
Step 4: Outline Your Plan of Investigation (Game Plan)
Summarizing your approach, sources, and methods
Briefly explain how you’ll tackle your research question:
- What approach will you take? (e.g., comparative analysis, experimental method)
- What key sources, data, or theories will you use?
Providing a clear roadmap for the reader
This helps the reader understand what to expect in the body of your essay and shows that your investigation is well-planned.
Step 5: Keep the Introduction Concise and Engaging
Balancing detail with readability
Aim for 250–500 words. Include essential context and information without overwhelming the reader with detail.
Avoiding unnecessary summaries
Don’t preemptively discuss your findings or conclusions in the introduction. Focus on setting up the investigation.
Step 6: Finalize the Introduction After Completing the Body
Refining your introduction to match your final argument
Once your main essay is complete, revisit and adjust the introduction to ensure it reflects your refined argument and structure.
Ensuring alignment with the essay’s content
This helps your introduction accurately preview the direction and scope of your essay.
Step 7: Maintain Formal Academic Tone and Style
Using clear, precise language
Your introduction should be formal, objective, and scholarly. Avoid vague or overly casual expressions.
Avoiding informal phrases and maintaining objectivity
Write with professionalism to meet IB’s academic standards.
FAQs on Writing a Strong EE Introduction
1️⃣ How long should my EE introduction be?
Aim for 250–500 words—enough to provide context and clarity without unnecessary detail.
2️⃣ When should I write my introduction?
It’s often best to write a draft early but finalize it after the body of the essay is complete.
3️⃣ Should I include my research question in bold?
Yes — this helps the examiner easily identify your guiding question.
4️⃣ Can my introduction include quotes?
Only if they’re essential for context — avoid overloading the introduction with quotations.
5️⃣ What’s the most common mistake in EE introductions?
Including too much description or background, making the introduction too long or unfocused.
6️⃣ Do I need to mention specific sources in the introduction?
Briefly mention key sources or types of data if relevant to your plan of investigation.
Conclusion: Set a Strong Foundation With Your EE Introduction
A well-crafted introduction sets the stage for a focused, analytical, and high-scoring Extended Essay. By providing context, stating your research question clearly, explaining its significance, and outlining your plan, you’ll guide your reader confidently into your investigation.
