IB Design Technology

How to Write an Extended Essay in IB Design Technology

••5 min read

Introduction

The Extended Essay (EE) is one of the core components of the IB Diploma Programme. While many students choose traditional subjects like History or English, writing an EE in IB Design Technology (DT) is a fantastic opportunity to explore creativity, innovation, and real-world problem-solving in depth.

With first exams for DT coming in 2027, students are preparing for the subject’s first wave of Extended Essays. This guide will walk you through how to plan, research, and write an excellent EE in IB Design Technology. For full guidance and support, RevisionDojo’s IB Design Technology hub already has resources tailored to the new syllabus.

Quick Start Checklist for a Strong DT EE

  • Choose a focused, researchable question.
  • Ground your essay in the design cycle or design theory.
  • Use both primary and secondary research.
  • Stay structured and analytical, not descriptive.
  • Reflect on the implications of your findings.

Step 1: Choosing a Research Question

A strong EE starts with a clear research question. Good DT EE questions are:

  • Focused – narrow enough to investigate deeply.
  • Testable – can be answered with data and analysis.
  • Relevant – linked to design, technology, and human use.

Examples of strong EE questions:

  • “To what extent can biodegradable materials replace plastics in takeaway food packaging?”
  • “How effective is modular furniture design in optimizing small living spaces?”
  • “To what extent do ergonomic principles improve student productivity in study environments?”

Step 2: Conducting Research

For IB DT, research should be a mix of:

  • Primary research: surveys, interviews, product testing, prototypes.
  • Secondary research: academic articles, design journals, sustainability reports, market studies.

The more data you can gather to support your argument, the stronger your essay will be.

Step 3: Structuring the Essay

A typical DT EE structure might include:

  1. Introduction – define the research question and explain why it matters.
  2. Background research – context, theory, and prior studies.
  3. Methodology – how you gathered primary and secondary data.
  4. Analysis – discussion of findings, case studies, prototypes, or test results.
  5. Evaluation – limitations, challenges, and reflection.
  6. Conclusion – answer your research question and consider implications.

Step 4: Writing with Clarity

  • Avoid descriptive writing. Don’t just explain what you did — analyze what it means.
  • Use visuals (graphs, sketches, diagrams) where relevant.
  • Reference all sources properly (MLA, APA, or Chicago as required by your school).

Step 5: Reflection and Evaluation

Examiners want to see critical thinking. Reflect on:

  • How reliable your research was.
  • What you might do differently with more time/resources.
  • Broader implications of your findings (e.g., environmental, social, or economic).

How RevisionDojo Helps With the DT EE

RevisionDojo’s IB Design Technology hub includes:

  • EE topic ideas tailored to the 2027 syllabus.
  • Guides on structuring a DT Extended Essay.
  • Research strategies for blending design theory with real-world application.
  • Tips on avoiding common pitfalls in DT essays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long should a DT EE be?
The EE has a maximum word count of 4,000 words, regardless of subject. Focus on depth, not length.

2. Do I need a prototype for my EE?
Not required, but including small-scale testing or prototyping can strengthen your essay.

3. Is it harder to write a DT EE than in other subjects?
Not harder, just different. DT essays emphasize application and design, not just pure theory.

4. Can I use sustainability as a focus for my EE?
Absolutely. Sustainability is one of the most relevant themes in IB Design Technology.

5. Where can I get reliable EE support for DT?
RevisionDojo’s IB Design Technology hub has step-by-step guidance for Extended Essays.

Conclusion

Writing an Extended Essay in IB Design Technology is an opportunity to explore innovation, creativity, and real-world impact. By choosing a focused question, conducting solid research, and analyzing critically, you can produce a standout essay.

With first exams in 2027, students writing the first wave of DT EEs need reliable resources. RevisionDojo already has the best EE guidance for IB Design Technology, helping you plan, research, and write with confidence.

Start your EE journey today with the IB Design Technology study hub.

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