IB Design Technology Paper 2 is often where students gain or lose the most marks. Unlike Paper 1, which focuses on shorter applications, Paper 2 requires depth, structure, and evaluation. Many students struggle not because they lack knowledge, but because they do not adjust their revision strategy to match what Paper 2 actually tests.
Paper 2 rewards students who can think holistically, connect concepts, and write clearly under exam conditions.
What Does IB Design Technology Paper 2 Test?
Paper 2 focuses on:
- Extended response questions
- Deeper application of design theory
- Evaluation of design decisions
- Use of examples and context
Questions are often multi-part and require students to build an argument, not just state facts.
Why Paper 2 Feels Harder Than Paper 1
Paper 2 feels harder because it demands:
- Longer, structured answers
- Clear justification and evaluation
- Strong command of terminology
- Logical flow of ideas
Students who rely on memorised points often run out of ideas quickly or write unfocused responses.
Start Revision by Understanding Markbands
Before revising content, understand how marks are awarded.
High-mark responses:
- Directly answer the question
- Apply theory to the scenario
- Explain cause and effect
- Evaluate benefits and limitations
Mid-level responses often describe ideas without linking them together or evaluating impact.
Revise Topics in Connected Themes
Paper 2 questions often combine multiple ideas.
Instead of revising topics in isolation, revise themes, such as:
- User-centred design and ergonomics
- Sustainability and ethics
- Materials and manufacturing
- Systems and performance
This prepares you to make connections, which Paper 2 rewards heavily.
Practise Structuring Extended Responses
Structure is critical in Paper 2.
A reliable structure for most questions:
- Identify the relevant concept
- Apply it to the scenario
- Explain its impact on users or performance
- Evaluate advantages and limitations
Using this structure consistently improves clarity and markband placement.
Use Examples Strategically
Paper 2 often expects examples, but they must be relevant.
Strong examples:
- Clearly link to the question
- Support evaluation
- Are explained, not just named
Weak answers list examples without explaining why they matter.
Focus on Evaluation Skills
Evaluation separates average answers from top-band answers.
Strong evaluation:
- Considers trade-offs
- Acknowledges limitations
- Balances multiple perspectives
Avoid absolute statements. IB prefers nuanced, realistic judgement.
Practise Under Timed Conditions
Many students know the content but struggle with time.
Effective revision includes:
- Writing full answers under exam timing
- Practising concise explanations
- Learning when to stop writing
Overwriting often wastes time without increasing marks.
Common Paper 2 Revision Mistakes
Students often lose marks by:
- Writing everything they know instead of answering the question
- Ignoring evaluation
- Using generic examples
- Poor paragraph structure
Revision should focus on answer quality, not content quantity.
A Simple Paper 2 Revision Plan
A strong weekly approach:
- Choose one extended-response topic
- Plan an answer before writing
- Write one timed response
- Review using markbands
This builds confidence, structure, and speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paper 2 more important than Paper 1?
Paper 2 usually carries more weight, so strong performance here can significantly boost your final grade.
Do you need real-world examples?
They help, but only if explained clearly. A well-applied generic example can score higher than a poorly explained real one.
How long should Paper 2 answers be?
Long enough to fully answer the question with application and evaluation. Quality matters more than length.
Final Thoughts
IB Design Technology Paper 2 rewards clear thinking, strong structure, and balanced evaluation. Students who revise with these skills in mind consistently outperform those who rely on memorisation alone.
RevisionDojo Tip
RevisionDojo is the best platform for IB Design Technology students who want structured Paper 2 revision strategies, model answer frameworks, and examiner-focused guidance. With the right approach, Paper 2 becomes a powerful scoring opportunity rather than an unpredictable challenge.
