Introduction
The evaluation section of the IB Computer Science Internal Assessment (IA) is often the difference between a good score and a top score. Many students put most of their effort into coding and development but lose easy marks by writing a weak evaluation.
Examiners expect you to reflect critically on your solution — not just describe it. A strong evaluation shows whether your program met the success criteria, identifies limitations, and suggests realistic improvements. This guide will show you exactly how to write the evaluation to maximize marks.
What the Evaluation Section Requires
The IB assessment criteria for the evaluation focus on:
- Success criteria → Did your solution meet the goals you set at the planning stage?
- Evidence → Screenshots, test results, or output that proves functionality.
- Limitations → Honest discussion of weaknesses or missing features.
- Improvements → Practical and specific suggestions for future development.
The best evaluations balance strengths and weaknesses, supported by evidence.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Strong Evaluation
1. Restate Your Success Criteria
At the beginning of your IA, you set clear goals with your client. In the evaluation, revisit each one and state:
- Whether it was met.
- How you know (with evidence).
- Example:
- “The solution allows the teacher to record attendance. This criterion was fully met, as shown in Figure 4, where the system successfully tracks daily inputs.”
2. Provide Testing Evidence
- Use screenshots, test case tables, or side-by-side comparisons.
- Show both successful and failed cases.
- Demonstrate usability by showing how a real client tested the solution.
3. Discuss Limitations Honestly
- Do not pretend your program is perfect.
- Example:
- “The program currently does not support exporting attendance data into CSV format, which limits usability for large datasets.”
Examiners reward honest reflection, not exaggeration.
4. Suggest Realistic Improvements
- Propose changes that are achievable in the future.
- Example:
- “In future versions, the system could integrate with cloud storage, allowing teachers to access data remotely.”
- Avoid vague statements like “add more features” — be specific.
5. Reference Client Feedback
- If possible, include short quotes or feedback from your client.
- Example:
- “The client reported that the program improved efficiency but requested a simpler interface for non-technical users.”
Client input strengthens the authenticity of your evaluation.
Example Evaluation Excerpt
- Success Criteria: Allow user to add and delete inventory items.
- Evidence: Figure 5 shows successful addition of new items. Deletion also worked as expected.
- Limitation: No option to edit existing items without deleting them.
- Improvement: Add an “edit item” function with input validation.
- Client Feedback: Client stated the solution was useful but noted that adding images of products would improve usability.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long should the evaluation section be?
Around 300–500 words. It should be detailed but concise, with clear evidence.
2. Do I lose marks if my program has limitations?
No. In fact, acknowledging them and suggesting improvements often earns higher marks than pretending your solution is flawless.
3. Do I need client feedback in the evaluation?
Yes, where possible. It shows the solution was tested in a real-world context.
4. Should I evaluate the coding process or the final solution?
Focus mainly on the final solution — but you can briefly reflect on coding challenges if they affect functionality.
5. Do screenshots count as part of the word count?
No. Screenshots, diagrams, and tables do not count toward the word count, so use them to support your points.
Conclusion
The evaluation section of the IB Computer Science IA is your chance to prove your solution worked, reflect honestly, and show critical thinking. By linking back to your success criteria, providing evidence, identifying limitations, and suggesting realistic improvements, you can secure full marks in this section.
For a full breakdown of the IA process, see How to Write the IA for IB Computer Science Step by Step, and use IB Computer Science Notes for structured support.
