IB Philosophy HL is a demanding course that requires analytical precision, essay fluency, and thoughtful engagement with abstract concepts. To revise effectively, you need more than just notes—you need targeted strategies. Here are RevisionDojo's most recommended methods, with resources embedded to guide you along the way.
1. Use Active Recall to Master Key Concepts
Active recall helps lock philosophical definitions and positions into long-term memory. For example, regularly quiz yourself on:
- Terms like a priori, teleology, and cogito
- The differences between rationalism and empiricism
- Key philosopher stances like Kant vs Mill
RevisionDojo explores this technique in their popular article 10 Proven Study Techniques for IB Students, where they show how flashcards and self-quizzing can boost exam confidence.
2. Apply Spaced Repetition for Long-Term Retention
Spaced repetition is a core element of memory science. Review key topics over several sessions:
- Day 1: Rationalist vs Empiricist chart
- Day 3: Ethical theories overview
- Day 6: Essay plan on Free Will
You’ll find spaced repetition embedded into RevisionDojo’s IB Philosophy Exam Preparation Guide, which includes a suggested timeline for HL students.
3. Practice Essay Planning Using Past Paper Prompts
Philosophy HL assessment hinges on essay clarity. Practice by:
- Writing timed introductions and thesis statements
- Drafting paragraph structures
- Evaluating opposing arguments
For structure ideas, RevisionDojo’s Complete IB Philosophy Guide provides detailed breakdowns of how to approach Paper 2 and HL essays.
4. Use Comparison Charts to Distinguish Theories and Thinkers
One of the best ways to revise is by comparing:
- Kant vs Bentham on moral reasoning
- Plato vs Locke on the nature of knowledge
You can structure these using templates from RevisionDojo's Philosophy Essay Structuring Tips, where they show how side-by-side tables support balanced evaluation.
5. Reflect on Command Terms in Essay Prompts
Knowing the difference between evaluate, assess, and analyze is crucial. Each command term has its own set of expectations.
RevisionDojo’s article How to Use IB Command Terms Effectively in Exam Responses explains what examiners expect from each term and how to tailor your structure accordingly.
6. Review Model Essays and Examiner Commentary
High-scoring essay samples give insight into:
- Argument flow
- Use of examples
- Depth of evaluation
RevisionDojo integrates real examples into its philosophy coverage, helping you see what a 7-level response looks like. These are outlined clearly in the IB Philosophy Exam Guide.
7. Balance Revision with IA Planning
For HL students, the internal assessment is just as important as exams. Start early by:
- Selecting a narrow question (e.g., “Is moral relativism defensible?”)
- Mapping argument flow and referencing frameworks
This approach is mapped out in RevisionDojo’s IA section of the Complete IB Philosophy Guide.
FAQs
Q: How often should I revise philosophy topics?
Use a spaced schedule with 3–4 reviews per major topic before the exam.
Q: How can I evaluate effectively in essays?
Use counterarguments and structured conclusions. RevisionDojo offers models in their sample essay annotations.
Q: Should I revise command terms separately?
Absolutely. RevisionDojo’s command term breakdown helps you avoid losing marks due to misinterpretation.
Conclusion
Mastering IB Philosophy HL revision is about more than just re-reading notes. You need:
- Active recall and spaced repetition
- Essay practice with structure awareness
- Command term fluency
- Comparison and critical thinking
- IA progress alongside exam prep
Start now with RevisionDojo’s trusted resources, including:
