Introduction
The IB Extended Essay in Mathematics (IB Math EE) is one of the most challenging and rewarding parts of the IB Diploma Programme. Unlike typical coursework, the Math EE requires you to independently investigate a mathematical question, idea, or application in depth. For many IB students, it’s their first taste of real mathematical research.
But with that challenge comes uncertainty: how do you choose a topic? What level of math is appropriate? And how do you structure the essay to meet IB standards? This guide provides everything you need to confidently tackle your IB Math EE and maximize your potential.
Quick Start Checklist
Before diving into writing, here’s a rapid checklist for your Math Extended Essay:
- Select a topic you genuinely find interesting (sports, finance, coding, physics, etc.).
- Ensure the math goes beyond your HL or SL syllabus.
- Review past Math EE exemplars to understand depth and scope.
- Create a clear research question that can be answered mathematically.
- Use RevisionDojo resources for essay structure and exam-ready strategies.
Choosing a Math EE Topic
The most important step in writing a Math EE is the topic selection. A strong Math EE topic is:
- Mathematically rich: It should explore concepts deeper than classroom exercises.
- Personalized: Link it to your interests—this keeps you motivated.
- Researchable: Ensure you can find enough sources and data to work with.
Examples of excellent Math EE topics:
- Game theory applications in economics or strategy.
- Fractals and chaos theory in modeling natural systems.
