Why Paper Weighting Matters in IB Math
Understanding the weighting of each paper in IB Math is more than just numbers—it's a roadmap for how to study smarter. Whether you're in Analysis & Approaches (AA) or Applications & Interpretation (AI), knowing the contribution of each assessment to your final grade helps you:
- Allocate study time wisely
- Prepare strategically for high-impact assessments
- Avoid overfocusing on less weighted tasks
IB Math SL Paper Weighting (AA & AI)
If you’re taking Math AA SL or Math AI SL, here’s how your score breaks down:
- Paper 1 (No Calculator) – 40% of your final grade
Tests core understanding, mental math, algebraic techniques. - Paper 2 (Calculator Allowed) – 40% of your final grade
Focuses on modeling, graphing, and real-world application. - Internal Assessment (IA) – 20% of your final grade
A personal math exploration; offers a chance to boost your score.
IB Math HL Paper Weighting (AA & AI)
Higher Level students in either stream face an additional challenge—Paper 3. The breakdown is:
- Paper 1 (No Calculator) – 30%
- Paper 2 (Calculator Allowed) – 30%
- Paper 3 (HL-Only, Calculator Allowed) – 20%
- IA – 20%
Each paper contributes meaningfully—no component is “just for practice.”
Paper-by-Paper Format Overview
📌 Paper 1 (No Calculator)
- Pure problem-solving and manipulation.
- Tests algebra, functions, calculus fundamentals.
- Accuracy and speed are crucial.
🧠 Paper 2 (Calculator Allowed)
- Focus on applied math.
- Calculator used for modeling, solving equations, graphing.
🔍 Paper 3 (HL only)
- Two long-form problems.
- Emphasizes depth, interpretation, and higher-order thinking.
- Covers advanced HL topics like logic, proof, or options.
📄 Internal Assessment (IA)
- An investigative paper on a math concept of your choice.
- Graded on creativity, depth, reasoning, and structure.
- One of the few internally managed parts of your grade.
Visual Summary of IB Math Paper Weighting
- Math AA SL or Math AI SL
- Paper 1: 40%
- Paper 2: 40%
- IA: 20%
- Math AA HL or Math AI HL
- Paper 1: 30%
- Paper 2: 30%
- Paper 3: 20%
- IA: 20%
How This Weighting Affects Your Study Strategy
- ✅ Focus more time on Paper 1 and 2, as they make up 60–80% of your grade.
- ✅ Don’t ignore your IA—20% can boost a borderline grade.
- ✅ If you’re HL, Paper 3 needs advanced prep—one mistake here can cost up to 10% of your total.
- ✅ Practice past papers per paper type, not just by topic.
Common Questions About IB Math Paper Weighting
Do AA and AI have the same weighting?
Yes. Both versions use identical paper weightings, though content and skills differ.
Is Paper 3 harder?
It often is—due to open-ended questions and deeper problem-solving.
Can a good IA score save a bad Paper 1?
Not entirely, but it can cushion your total score significantly.
How to Optimize Your Performance Per Paper
✍️ Paper 1 Tips
- Master no-calculator techniques
- Practice exact forms (fractions, radicals)
- Focus on algebra, calculus
📐 Paper 2 Tips
- Know your calculator functions well
- Use graphs to verify answers
- Practice complex modeling scenarios
📊 Paper 3 Tips (HL only)
- Work on HL option topics in depth
- Practice writing explanations and steps clearly
- Expect to justify reasoning
📘 IA Tips
- Choose a topic you're interested in
- Show progression and personal engagement
- Use math appropriate to your level
RevisionDojo: Your Ally in Paper-Specific Prep
Head to RevisionDojo.com for:
- Topic-by-paper breakdowns
- IA brainstorming and templates
- Paper 3 walkthroughs
- SL and HL study planners aligned with weightings
🎯 Save time. Study smarter. Reduce stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can Paper 3 alone fail my HL grade?
If your Paper 3 is very weak (below 40%), and your IA isn’t strong, yes—your final grade could drop a band.
2. Is Paper 1 really harder than Paper 2?
Many students think so, due to no calculator use—but it depends on your algebra fluency.
3. Does IB round the final percentage?
Your grade bands are set by boundaries, not rounded percentages.
4. Should I revise Paper 1 more?
Yes, especially if you rely heavily on calculators. Algebraic accuracy is tested here.
5. Is the IA marked externally?
No, it’s internally marked and externally moderated.
6. Do universities care about the weighting?
No—they only see the final score. But how you get there matters to you.
Conclusion
IB Math paper weighting isn’t just a technical detail—it’s a strategic tool. Knowing how much each paper counts helps you plan revision, focus on impact, and manage stress.
🎯 For guided walkthroughs, smart revision routines, and IA help tailored to your paper weightings, visit RevisionDojo.com—your go-to resource for all things IB Math AA and AI.
