Introduction
The appendix is one of the most misunderstood sections of the Internal Assessment (IA). Some students overload it with irrelevant material, while others forget to include it entirely. Used correctly, appendices can strengthen your IA by providing supporting evidence without cluttering the main body. Used incorrectly, they can confuse examiners or even lead to lost marks.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to use appendices correctly in your IA, what to include, and what to avoid. For models of well-structured appendices, review RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars.
Quick Start Checklist: Appendices in an IA
- Include raw data, detailed calculations, and supplementary material
- Keep the main body focused on analysis
- Label and reference appendices clearly
- Avoid using appendices to “hide” essential content
- Ensure material is relevant and examiner-friendly
Step 1: Understand the Purpose of Appendices
The appendix should support your IA, not replace sections of it. Its purpose is to provide additional material that examiners can consult if needed.
Examples of appropriate content:
- Full raw data sets
- Sample calculations
- Copies of primary sources (e.g., letters, posters)
- Extended graphs or images that don’t fit in the main body
Step 2: Know What Not to Include
Examiners do not want to see:
- Extra analysis that should be in the main body
- Long paragraphs of text
- Irrelevant documents or images
- Multiple versions of the same material
If it’s essential for understanding your IA, keep it in the main text — don’t hide it in the appendix.
Step 3: Keep the Main Body Focused
Your IA should remain clear and concise. Appendices are for supporting details, not for padding.
Example:
- Main body: Present averages, trends, and analysis of data.
- Appendix: Include full tables of raw measurements and detailed sample calculations.
This keeps examiners focused on your argument while still giving them access to supporting evidence.
Step 4: Label Appendices Clearly
Appendices should be easy to navigate. Use clear labels like:
- Appendix A: Raw Data Table
- Appendix B: Sample Calculation
- Appendix C: Propaganda Poster (History IA)
Refer to appendices in your text when necessary:
“As shown in Appendix B, detailed calculations confirm the average reaction rate.”
Step 5: Keep Appendices Organized and Professional
Messy appendices frustrate examiners. Make them clear and professional by:
- Using consistent formatting (tables, headings, fonts).
- Avoiding clutter — only include what adds value.
- Numbering pages if appendices are long.
A well-organized appendix reflects care and attention to detail.
Step 6: Tailor Appendices to Subject Requirements
Different subjects use appendices differently:
- Science IAs: Raw data tables, sample calculations, calibration charts.
- History IAs: Copies of primary sources, annotated excerpts.
- Math IAs: Step-by-step calculations, extended formula derivations.
Follow the conventions of your subject to avoid losing marks.
Common Mistakes With Appendices
- Moving essential analysis into the appendix (examiners won’t count it).
- Failing to label appendices clearly.
- Overloading with irrelevant material.
- Forgetting to reference appendices in the main body.
- Using appendices as a way to “hide” excess word count.
Why Exemplars Are Helpful
If you’re unsure how to format or use appendices, reviewing models is the best solution. RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars showcase IAs where appendices were used correctly — supporting the main body without replacing it.
FAQs on IA Appendices
1. Do appendices count toward the IA word count?
No — appendices do not count toward word limits, but they should only include supporting material.
2. Can I put extra analysis in the appendix?
No — essential analysis must appear in the main body. Examiners will not mark analysis hidden in appendices.
3. How many appendices can I include?
As many as needed, but only if they’re relevant and clearly organized.
4. Should I reference appendices in the main text?
Yes — otherwise examiners may not know why they’re included.
5. Where can I see good examples of IA appendices?
Check RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars, which include properly structured appendices.
Conclusion
Appendices are a powerful tool when used correctly. By including raw data, calculations, and supporting material — but keeping essential analysis in the main body — you’ll create a professional IA that examiners appreciate. Clear labeling, organization, and subject-specific formatting will make your appendices examiner-friendly. For inspiration, review RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars, which model best practices.
Call to Action
Want to make sure your appendices strengthen your IA? Explore RevisionDojo’s coursework exemplars today and learn how top IB students structured theirs for success.
