Introduction
The Internal Assessment (IA) is one of the most important parts of the IB Diploma Programme. A strong IA can lift your overall subject grade, while a weak one can pull it down. Choosing the perfect IA topic is often the hardest first step. Many IB students struggle with whether their IA idea is original enough, feasible within the time limits, and aligned with IB expectations. In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the best IA topic, provide practical examples, and show how you can model your work after RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars to achieve top marks.
Quick Start Checklist for Choosing Your IA Topic
When selecting your IA topic, ask yourself these five quick questions:
- Does this topic genuinely interest me?
- Is the IA research question focused and specific?
- Can I realistically gather data, evidence, or analysis for it?
- Does it allow for critical thinking, not just description?
- Would this IA topic impress an IB examiner?
If you can answer yes to all five, you’re already on the right track.
Why the IA Topic Matters
Your IA topic is the foundation of your entire project. A strong topic helps you:
- Stay motivated through the research and writing process.
- Demonstrate originality and critical thinking.
- Showcase depth of analysis rather than broad generalizations.
- Build a clear argument that leads to higher IA scores.
The wrong IA topic, on the other hand, can lead to vague analysis, limited evidence, or even difficulty completing the assignment on time.
Steps to Choosing the Perfect IA Topic
1. Start With Your Interests
The IA is a rare chance in the IB to choose something personal. For example, in History, instead of repeating common WWII topics, you could investigate the local impact of a policy in your country. In Sciences, think about experiments you can realistically do at home or in school labs.
2. Narrow It Down
IB examiners dislike overly broad IAs. “Climate Change” is too vague, but “The impact of CO2 levels on the growth rate of basil plants” is manageable. Narrowing down ensures your IA stays focused.
3. Align With the Criteria
Every IA is graded with a specific rubric. Compare your idea against the criteria early on to make sure it allows for analysis, evaluation, and reflection.
4. Test Feasibility
Ask: Can you actually collect the data you need? For example, in Math IA topics, avoid projects that require datasets you can’t access. Feasibility saves time and stress later.
5. Look at Successful Models
The best way to learn is by example. That’s why RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars are so useful — they showcase high-scoring IAs across subjects, giving you inspiration while showing you exactly what examiners reward.
Common Mistakes When Choosing an IA Topic
- Picking something too broad
- Choosing a topic with little available data
- Copying common IA themes without a personal twist
- Selecting a topic just because it “sounds impressive”
- Ignoring the subject-specific IA rubric
By avoiding these traps, you’ll ensure your IA stands out for the right reasons.
Tips for Different Subject IAs
Science IAs
- Focus on experiments that can be repeated reliably.
- Avoid unsafe or overly complex experiments.
- Choose variables you can measure accurately.
History IAs
- Pick a local or less-explored historical event.
- Make sure sources are available in your language.
- Avoid overly controversial or too broad events.
Math IAs
- Choose topics that let you explore concepts beyond the syllabus.
- Ensure the IA demonstrates depth, not just calculations.
- Relate it to real-world applications when possible.
FAQs About Choosing IA Topics
1. How do I know if my IA topic is original enough?
Originality doesn’t mean no one has ever researched it before. It means you bring a unique perspective or focus. Narrowing your research question or applying a personal angle (like local context) is often enough.
2. What if I lose interest in my IA halfway through?
This is why choosing something that genuinely excites you is key. If you start losing interest, revisit your research question and see if you can adjust the angle without changing the core topic.
3. Can I change my IA topic after starting?
Yes, but it’s best to finalize early. Changing late can lead to rushed work. If you must switch, focus on adapting your current work to fit the new direction instead of restarting from scratch.
4. How detailed should my IA research question be?
It should be narrow enough to be answerable in 2,000 words but broad enough to allow for analysis. If your question can be answered with a simple yes/no, it’s too narrow.
5. Where can I see examples of strong IA topics?
The most reliable place is RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars, where you can study real high-scoring IAs and use them as inspiration.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect IA topic is the foundation of a successful Internal Assessment. It requires balancing interest, feasibility, and alignment with IB criteria. By starting with your genuine curiosity, narrowing your research question, and learning from RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars, you’ll set yourself up for a strong IA that examiners will reward.
Call to Action
Ready to see what a top-scoring IA actually looks like? Explore RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars today and model your IA after the very best.
