Understanding the Structure of the IB Diploma Programme
The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a challenging two-year curriculum recognized globally. It includes:
- Six subjects:
- 3 at Higher Level (HL)
- 3 at Standard Level (SL)
- Core components:
- Extended Essay (EE) – a 4,000-word research paper
- Theory of Knowledge (TOK) – a critical thinking course
- Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) – a personal development component
The full diploma is graded out of 45 points: 42 from subjects and up to 3 bonus points from EE and TOK.
Why Early Preparation Matters
✅ Benefits of Preparing Ahead:
- Build a strong academic base
- Reduce stress by getting ahead on IA-style tasks
- Increase your confidence before assessments begin
Even 4–6 weeks of summer prep before IB starts can make a big difference.
Smart Subject Selection for Success
Choosing the right subjects is crucial.
🧠 Tips:
- Pick HL subjects that align with your university goals
- Avoid selecting all heavy subjects (e.g., HL Math + Physics + Chemistry)
- Consider your strengths: Do you prefer essays or calculations?
💡 Example:
- For business or law: HL English, Economics, History
- For STEM: HL Math AA, Physics, Chemistry
Strengthening Key Academic Skills Before IB Starts
You don’t need to master everything, but sharpening a few core skills can help:
📝 Academic Writing:
- Practice writing structured essays (introduction, evidence, conclusion)
- Learn basic MLA/APA citation styles
🔍 Critical Thinking:
- Read editorials and practice forming counterarguments
- Discuss ethical dilemmas or global issues with peers
🔢 Math & Science Review:
- Review algebra, graphing, statistics
- Go through basic biology and chemistry concepts if you’re taking those subjects
Getting Familiar With IB Assessments
📘 Internal Assessments (IAs):
- Done during the course and count for 20–30%
- Usually require analysis, investigation, or essays
🧪 Extended Essay:
- Choose a topic you’re passionate about
- Research and plan early to avoid panic in Year 2
💡 Theory of Knowledge:
- Combines philosophy and logic
- Prepares you for the kind of thinking universities love
Building a Productive Study Routine
📅 Use Planning Tools:
- Notion, Trello, or Google Calendar for daily/weekly planning
⏰ Set Goals:
- Example: “Complete HL Biology notes by Week 2”
- Use the Pomodoro technique: 25 min study + 5 min break
⚖️ Balance With Life:
- Don’t forget CAS, physical activity, and breaks—it’s required and healthy!
Planning for CAS From Day One
CAS Categories:
- Creativity – painting, music, designing a website
- Activity – sports, hiking, yoga
- Service – volunteering, tutoring, organizing fundraisers
Track your hours and reflect regularly using a CAS journal.
Sample Pre-IB Timeline and Checklist
🗓️ Summer Before IB Starts
- ✅ Choose subjects
- ✅ Read past EE samples in your areas of interest
- ✅ Practice 1–2 past paper questions per subject
🗓️ First 3 Months of IB
- ✅ Organize binders/folders per subject
- ✅ Draft a CAS plan
- ✅ Identify your strongest and weakest subjects
🗓️ Leading to Mocks
- ✅ Make a revision calendar
- ✅ Use spaced repetition
- ✅ Practice timed past paper essays
FAQs – Preparing for the IB Diploma
How much time should I study daily?
- 1–2 hours daily in IB Year 1 is ideal. Increase before assessments.
Is summer prep really necessary?
Yes, especially if you're entering a rigorous school or want a head start.
Do I need tutoring before IB starts?
Not necessarily—but it helps to join a study group or use platforms like RevisionDojo.
What are common early mistakes?
- Procrastinating on IAs
- Picking too many high-load subjects
- Ignoring CAS until the last minute
How do I stay motivated?
Set short goals, celebrate milestones, and keep a visual tracker.
What materials should I buy beforehand?
- IB-approved textbooks
- Flashcards
- Notebook per subject
- CAS journal
Start Strong With RevisionDojo's IB Starter Kits
🎯 RevisionDojo offers:
- 📘 Pre-IB subject primers and revision planners
- ✍️ Extended Essay topic ideas and frameworks
- 📊 Past paper libraries and markschemes
- 💬 One-on-one sessions with former 40–45 IB scorers
👉 Begin your IB journey with confidence at RevisionDojo
