Introduction
Every IB student has a favorite subject — and one they’d rather avoid. But the Internal Assessment (IA) is mandatory across multiple disciplines, meaning at some point you may face writing an IA in a subject you don’t enjoy. This can feel frustrating, but disliking the subject doesn’t mean you can’t produce a strong IA.
In fact, many students score highly in subjects they dislike because they focus on strategy, structure, and efficiency. Success in the IA isn’t about loving the subject — it’s about demonstrating clarity, critical thinking, and alignment with the rubric. This guide will help you approach an IA with the right mindset and practical steps, even if it’s far from your favorite.
Quick Start Checklist
To survive (and thrive) in a subject you dislike:
- Choose a research question you find at least somewhat interesting.
- Break the IA into smaller, manageable steps.
- Focus on structure and rubric alignment over passion.
- Use peer feedback to catch blind spots when your motivation dips.
- Reward yourself for progress to stay motivated.
Why Disliking a Subject Isn’t the End of the World
Disliking a subject can actually sharpen your IA strategy:
- You’ll lean on structure. Without passion to carry you, you’ll naturally focus on organization and clarity — both rewarded by examiners.
- You’ll be concise. Students who dislike a subject are less likely to ramble, keeping writing focused.
- You’ll rely on peer/supervisor input. Seeking outside perspectives can strengthen your IA and reduce bias.
In short, a subject you dislike doesn’t block you from success — it just requires a smarter approach.
Strategies for Tackling an IA in a Subject You Dislike
1. Pick a Manageable Research Question
Even if you dislike the subject, you can choose a question that intersects with your interests. For example:
- If you dislike Biology but enjoy sports, study the biology of exercise.
- If you dislike History but like politics, frame your IA around policy decisions.
2. Treat It Like a Puzzle
Shift your mindset: instead of thinking “I hate this subject,” think “this is a problem to solve.” Breaking the IA into steps — introduction, method, analysis, conclusion — makes the process less intimidating.
3. Focus on the Rubric
Examiners don’t care if you love the subject; they care if you meet criteria. Print the rubric and check off each requirement as you draft. This keeps you on track and removes unnecessary stress.
4. Use Feedback Strategically
When motivation dips, you’re more likely to miss mistakes. Ask peers or your supervisor for targeted feedback to keep your IA sharp.
5. Manage Motivation in Small Bursts
Set short deadlines and reward yourself for finishing sections. Momentum builds when you focus on progress instead of perfection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing an overcomplicated topic: If you already dislike the subject, don’t make life harder. Pick something straightforward.
- Leaving it to the last minute: Procrastination amplifies dislike. Start early and work in chunks.
- Copying textbook material: Lack of interest can lead to description-heavy writing. Always push for analysis.
- Ignoring the rubric: Students often give up on disliked subjects and skip requirements — a guaranteed way to lose marks.
FAQs
1. Can I still get a top score if I dislike the subject?
Absolutely. Examiners assess based on clarity, analysis, and alignment with the rubric, not enthusiasm. Many students score higher in subjects they dislike because they stick closely to structure and avoid overcomplicating.
2. How do I find motivation to write?
Link your IA to something that sparks your interest, even indirectly. If that fails, focus on discipline: break tasks into small steps, use rewards, and remind yourself that finishing this IA brings you closer to graduation.
3. Should I tell my supervisor I dislike the subject?
Yes, but frame it constructively. Say, “I find this subject difficult, so I’d like extra guidance on keeping my IA focused.” Supervisors appreciate honesty when it comes with a willingness to improve.
Conclusion
Approaching an IA in a subject you dislike may feel daunting, but with the right strategies, you can still write an effective, high-scoring paper. By choosing a manageable research question, leaning on structure, and using feedback to stay sharp, you turn a challenge into a success.
At RevisionDojo, we believe every student can succeed in any IA subject with the right mindset and tools. Even if you don’t love the subject, you can still love the results.
RevisionDojo Call to Action
Struggling with an IA in a subject you dislike? RevisionDojo offers guidance, examples, and step-by-step support to help you stay on track. From refining your research question to polishing your final draft, we’ll help you succeed in any subject — even the ones you’d rather avoid.
