One of the most common questions students ask during the IB Design Technology IA is how many prototypes they need. Some students build one polished model and stop. Others produce many versions without clear purpose. Both approaches can limit marks.

In IB Design Technology, the number of prototypes matters far less than what you learn from them. Prototyping is assessed as part of design thinking, testing, and iteration—not as a showcase of craftsmanship.

What Is a Prototype in IB Design Technology?

A prototype is any representation of a design idea used to test, explore, or evaluate performance. Prototypes do not have to be final products or high-quality models.

Prototypes can include:

• Sketch models
• Cardboard or foam mock-ups
• 3D printed components
• Digital models
• Partial assemblies focused on one feature

If a prototype helps you test an idea or gather feedback, it counts.

What Examiners Are Actually Looking For

IB examiners are not counting prototypes. They are looking for evidence of iteration.

High-scoring projects show that students:

• Tested ideas early
• Learned from testing
• Made changes based on results
• Improved the design over time

A project with multiple meaningful iterations will always score higher than one with a single “perfect” prototype.

Is There a Minimum Number of Prototypes?

There is no official minimum number, but most high-scoring projects include:

• At least one early prototype to test basic ideas
• One or more improved versions based on feedback

This usually means two to four purposeful prototypes, depending on the project.

What matters is that each prototype has a clear reason for existing.

Quality Over Quantity

A common mistake is producing many prototypes that all test the same thing.

Effective prototyping:

• Tests different features or improvements
• Focuses on user needs
• Produces clear evidence

For example:

• One prototype tests size and ergonomics
• Another tests strength or stability
• A later version tests usability with the client

This approach shows structured design thinking and earns marks.

Early Prototypes Matter Most

Many students wait too long to prototype, which limits iteration.

Strong projects include early, low-fidelity prototypes that:

• Identify problems quickly
• Encourage feedback
• Reduce risk later

Early prototypes do not need to look good. Their purpose is to fail early so the final design improves.

Prototyping and Testing Go Together

A prototype without testing adds little value.

Each prototype should be linked to:

• A test
• User feedback
• A design requirement

After testing, students should clearly explain:

• What worked
• What failed
• What was changed

This explanation is where most marks are earned.

Common Prototyping Mistakes

Students often lose marks by:

• Only producing one final prototype
• Making changes without explaining why
• Building complex models with no testing
• Describing prototypes instead of evaluating them

IB rewards reflection, not effort alone.

How Prototyping Affects IA Marks

Strong prototyping:

• Demonstrates design thinking
• Supports justification
• Strengthens evaluation

Weak or minimal prototyping often limits marks across multiple criteria, especially development and evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do digital prototypes count?

Yes. Digital models count if they are used to test ideas and inform decisions, not just for presentation.

Is one prototype enough?

Usually not. One prototype suggests limited iteration, which restricts marks.

Should the final prototype be perfect?

No. Examiners prefer honest reflection over perfection. A design with flaws but strong evaluation often scores higher.

Final Thoughts

In IB Design Technology, prototyping is about learning and improving, not showing off a final product. A small number of purposeful prototypes with clear testing and reflection will always outperform many unfocused models.

RevisionDojo Tip

RevisionDojo is the best platform for IB Design Technology students who want clear guidance on prototyping strategies, iteration, and how to turn testing into marks. With the right approach, prototyping becomes one of the strongest scoring areas of your IA instead of a source of confusion.