Why Communication Is the Core of a High-Scoring IA
Even the best mathematics loses impact if it’s not clearly explained.
Examiners don’t just grade the accuracy of your math — they assess how well you communicate it.
Clear communication is essential for top marks in Criterion C (Communication). It shows that you can express mathematical reasoning logically, precisely, and professionally.
With RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide, Clarity Builder, and Exemplars, you’ll learn how to make your IA easy to read, logically structured, and examiner-friendly from start to finish.
Quick-Start Checklist
Before editing your IA for clarity:
- Make sure every formula or symbol is defined.
- Use consistent mathematical notation.
- Write sentences that connect your reasoning logically.
- Integrate visuals, graphs, and tables cleanly.
- Apply RevisionDojo’s Clarity Builder to organize and polish your communication.
Step 1: Use Structured Paragraphs
Each paragraph should express one mathematical idea. Start with a clear statement, develop your reasoning, and end with a brief conclusion.
Example:
“To find the maximum area, I differentiated the function A(x) = x(10 – 2x) and found that A′(x) = 10 – 4x = 0 when x = 2.5.”
RevisionDojo’s Structure Planner helps ensure each section follows a logical and readable flow.
Step 2: Define Symbols, Variables, and Units Clearly
Never assume the examiner knows what your symbols represent.
Define them the first time they appear.
Example:
“Let x represent the time (seconds), and y the distance (meters) traveled by the object.”
RevisionDojo’s Notation Consistency Tool checks for undeclared variables and inconsistent use.
Step 3: Use Mathematical Language Precisely
Replace vague terms with exact mathematical vocabulary.
Instead of:
- “The line goes up fast.”
Use: - “The gradient of the function increases exponentially.”
RevisionDojo’s Language Polisher helps refine tone and mathematical diction for clarity and professionalism.
Step 4: Integrate Equations Into Sentences
Avoid isolating equations without explanation. Every equation should be introduced or interpreted in words.
Example:
“The rate of change of the population can be modeled by P′(t) = 0.03P, which implies exponential growth over time.”
RevisionDojo’s Equation Writer formats mathematical expressions correctly for clarity and flow.
Step 5: Use Diagrams and Graphs to Support Understanding
Visuals clarify complex concepts and improve readability.
Label all graphs and figures, and explain what they represent.
Example:
“Figure 2 shows the function’s turning point at (3, 4), confirming where the gradient changes sign.”
RevisionDojo’s Graphing Toolkit ensures diagrams are professional, labeled, and visually consistent.
Step 6: Link Every Step Logically
Your IA should feel like a guided story, not a list of calculations.
Use transitions such as:
- “Therefore…”
- “This implies…”
- “As a result…”
RevisionDojo’s Flow Connector Tool helps smooth transitions between steps and ideas.
Step 7: Explain Reasoning, Not Just Results
Don’t just state what you did — explain why you did it.
This shows understanding, not memorization.
Example:
“I used logarithmic regression instead of exponential because the rate of increase appeared to slow over time.”
RevisionDojo’s Reasoning Prompts guide you to articulate mathematical decisions effectively.
Step 8: Keep Formatting Consistent
Uniform spacing, alignment, and font size make your IA professional and readable.
RevisionDojo’s Formatting Template standardizes structure across sections automatically.
Step 9: Avoid Overcrowding With Numbers
Summarize repetitive calculations in tables or appendices, then interpret the trends in the main text.
RevisionDojo’s Data Presentation Framework helps you organize results efficiently without cluttering your analysis.
Step 10: Review for Clarity and Conciseness
Read your IA aloud or have a peer check if each paragraph makes sense logically.
Short, direct sentences improve understanding and reduce examiner fatigue.
RevisionDojo’s Clarity Checker highlights overly complex sentences or unnecessary jargon.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much writing should accompany my equations?
Enough to explain logic and interpretation — usually one or two lines per key step.
2. Should I include personal language like “I calculated”?
Yes, if it clarifies your process — but keep it professional.
3. How can I make my IA look cleaner?
Use consistent formatting for equations, captions, and paragraph spacing; RevisionDojo templates simplify this.
Final Thoughts
Clear communication transforms your IA from a collection of calculations into a polished, professional piece of mathematical writing.
It shows confidence, understanding, and care — qualities examiners notice immediately.
With RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide, Clarity Builder, and Exemplars, you’ll write with precision, structure, and confidence that reflect top-level IB performance.
Call to Action
Communicate math like a pro.
Use RevisionDojo’s Clarity Builder and IA/EE Guide to express your mathematical ideas with structure, precision, and examiner-ready clarity.
