Facing IB English Paper 2 with only 1 hour 45 minutes to write a comparative essay can feel daunting—but with the right preparation strategy, you’ll write with clarity and confidence. Here’s how to study smart under exam conditions, with expert RevisionDojo guidance.
1. Understand the Structure and Task
Paper 2 asks you to write a comparative essay based on two studied works, responding to one of six prompt options. You need a clear thesis, strong comparisons, and evaluative commentary.
➤ Start with RevisionDojo’s Is IB English Paper 2 Harder Than Paper 1? to understand what sets this paper apart and how to prepare accordingly (revisiondojo.com).
2. Know Your Texts Inside-Out
Success requires more than surface familiarity—you must internalize themes, techniques, and key quotes in advance to save time during the exam.
➤ Use RevisionDojo’s IB English Paper 2: Essential Guide for Success to practice efficient comparative skills and reinforce knowledge retention (revisiondojo.com).
3. Practice with Real Prompts Under Time Pressure
Timed essay drills simulate exam stress and help you become comfortable with planning, writing, and proofreading under a deadline.
➤ Leverage the IB English HL/SL Paper 2 Sample Papers & Exemplar Responses to test your pacing and compare your work to model essays (revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com).
4. Use a Structured Time-Saving Essay Blueprint
A reliable structure—introduction, comparative body paragraphs, and conclusion—keeps your essay focused and effective under pressure.
➤ RevisionDojo’s Structuring Your IB English Paper 2 Essay outlines a timed plan for planning, writing, and proofreading your essay (revisiondojo.com).
5. Prioritize Depth Over Breadth
Rather than rushing through many points, focus on 3 to 4 strong comparative arguments—each supported by detailed analysis and well-chosen evidence.
➤ Learn why quality matters more with RevisionDojo’s How to Score a 7 in IB English Paper 2 (revisiondojo.com).
6. Replace Passive Review with Active Writing
Reading notes isn't enough—actively write essays regularly under timed conditions. Reflect on mistakes and structure.
➤ For common pitfalls and effective revision habits, see RevisionDojo’s Common Mistakes to Avoid During IB Revision (revisiondojo.com).
7. Stay Calm with Stress Management
Being well-rested, practicing calming techniques, and keeping a steady exam routine help ensure clarity and focus under pressure.
➤ Find helpful stress strategies in RevisionDojo’s How to Cope With IB Exam Stress and Anxiety.
8. Final Review: Drill & Polish
In your final revision weeks, switch to timed full-essay writing, simulate real exam timing, and refine your structure and clarity—rather than rereading content.
➤ Use the countdown revision plan from RevisionDojo’s Complete IB Revision Guide to structure your final prep phase (revisiondojo.com).
FAQs
How many body paragraphs should I write?
Aim for 3–4 comparative body paragraphs, each detailing one major point with textual support.
What if I forget a quote?
You can paraphrase closely — just ensure meaning remains accurate and analysis strong.
Should I start writing right away or plan first?
Always plan for 5–10 minutes—this leads to more coherent structure and stronger argument flow.
Conclusion
To excel in IB English Paper 2 under time pressure, you need:
- A deep understanding of your texts
- Structured timed practice
- A clear essay blueprint
- Strategic focus on impactful comparative points
- Stress management tools
- Smart final-week revision habits
📝 Ready to access more tools like essay prompts, exemplar responses, and structured planning templates?
Explore IB English Paper 2: Essential Guide for Success or browse the full IB English toolkit at RevisionDojo: All IB English Resources.
