Can You Write an IB Extended Essay (EE) in a Week? Here’s What You Need to Know

RevisionDojo
3 min read

Is It Possible to Write an IB EE in a Week?

Technically, yes—but it’s extremely challenging and not recommended. The IB Extended Essay is a 4,000-word independent research project requiring careful planning, research, drafting, and revision. Ideally, students spend months developing their EE.

Writing an EE in a week means you must work intensively and strategically, focusing on essential elements while sacrificing depth and polish.

Challenges of Writing an IB EE in a Week

  • Limited time for thorough research: Gathering credible sources and data takes time.
  • Insufficient drafting and editing: Good writing needs multiple revisions.
  • Risk of plagiarism: Rushed writing increases accidental plagiarism risks.
  • Stress and burnout: Intense pressure can harm mental health and work quality.

If You Must Write Your IB EE in a Week: A Step-by-Step Plan

Day 1: Choose Topic and Gather Sources

  • Pick a topic you know well or have easy access to research.
  • Collect 5–10 credible sources (books, articles, journals).

Day 2: Create a Detailed Outline

  • Draft your research question clearly.
  • Plan introduction, body sections, and conclusion.

Day 3: Write the Introduction and Methodology

  • Explain your topic’s relevance and research question.
  • Describe your approach or methods.

Day 4-5: Write the Main Body

  • Break it into sections based on your outline.
  • Use clear, concise paragraphs with evidence.

Day 6: Write the Conclusion and Abstract

  • Summarize findings and answer your research question.
  • Write a brief abstract highlighting your essay’s focus.

Day 7: Edit, Proofread, and Format

  • Check for clarity, grammar, and citation errors.
  • Ensure compliance with IB formatting and citation guidelines.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

  • Avoid distractions—use focused work sessions (Pomodoro technique).
  • Use reference management tools to organize citations quickly.
  • Keep language simple and direct to save time.
  • Ask teachers or peers for quick feedback if possible.
  • Use official IB EE guides to follow structure and requirements strictly.

FAQs About Writing the IB EE Quickly

Q1: Can I get a good grade writing the EE in a week?
It’s possible but difficult. Quality may suffer without adequate research and revision.

Q2: What if I don’t finish the EE on time?
You risk missing IB deadlines and possibly not earning the diploma.

Q3: Can I get help with my EE?
You can get guidance and feedback but the work must be your own.

Q4: Should I choose an easy topic to save time?
Choose a manageable topic, but ensure it meets IB criteria for depth.

Q5: Is the abstract mandatory?
Yes, a 300-word abstract is required for submission.

Final Thoughts

Writing an IB Extended Essay in a week is a tough challenge but not impossible with intense focus and planning. However, for the best results, start early and allow yourself ample time to research and revise.

Want a quick EE template or last-minute checklist?
RevisionDojo offers helpful tools to guide your IB projects efficiently!