Introduction: Truth in Every Calculation
Mathematics is often called the language of logic — and logic depends on integrity. In IB Mathematics, every equation, proof, and model reflects not only your understanding but your honesty in reasoning and presentation.
The IB Mathematics Guide (IBO, 2023) emphasizes that “academic honesty and precision are fundamental to mathematical work.” This means that your calculations, data models, and written justifications must be authentic, accurate, and properly cited when influenced by external resources.
This guide explores how IB Mathematics students can uphold academic and analytical integrity across all assessments, from problem sets to Internal Assessments (IAs).
Quick Start Checklist: Integrity in IB Mathematics
- Show all working steps clearly and accurately.
- Avoid copying or paraphrasing solutions from online sources.
- Use technology (like calculators or Desmos) transparently.
- Cite all data and external models.
- Reflect honestly on errors and approximations.
- Follow IB assessment and calculator-use rules.
Integrity ensures that your mathematics isn’t just correct — it’s credible.
Understanding Integrity in Mathematics
Integrity in IB Mathematics combines honesty, precision, and accountability.
It means:
- Honest reasoning: Presenting logical steps that truly reflect your thought process.
- Accurate computation: Avoiding manipulation or rounding to produce desired results.
- Ethical application: Using mathematics responsibly in modeling and data representation.
As mathematician Henri Poincaré once wrote, “To doubt everything or to believe everything are two equally convenient solutions; both dispense with the need for reflection.” Integrity is what keeps mathematical reasoning reflective and responsible.
Honest Calculation and Working
Showing full mathematical working is essential to academic integrity.
To maintain accuracy and honesty:
- Write out each calculation step — not just final answers.
- Indicate approximations with appropriate symbols (≈).
- Use significant figures consistently and justify rounding.
- Verify calculator outputs manually where possible.
- Check all units, dimensions, and conversions.
Clear, transparent working allows others to follow — and trust — your logic.
Avoiding Plagiarism in Mathematical Work
It might seem impossible to “plagiarize” math, but copying reasoning or structure from others is still misconduct.
Avoid plagiarism by:
- Explaining methods in your own words.
- Citing formulas, proofs, or models sourced from textbooks or online references.
- Not using “solution banks” or past papers for your IA.
- Refraining from AI-generated mathematical justifications.
Mathematical originality means demonstrating understanding, not inventing new theorems — integrity lies in comprehension, not invention.
Ethical Data Use in Mathematical Modeling
Mathematical modeling often uses real-world data — but integrity ensures that data remains accurate and ethically sourced.
- Use reliable and transparent data sources (e.g., UN, WHO, or World Bank).
- Cite all datasets and note modifications.
- Avoid fabricating or altering numbers to improve fit.
- Discuss uncertainty, correlation limits, and possible bias.
Mathematics is powerful because it simplifies reality — integrity ensures you don’t oversimplify truth.
Using Technology and Calculators Responsibly
Technology enhances mathematical learning but must be used transparently.
- Use calculators, Desmos, or GeoGebra only as permitted.
- Do not use AI to generate solutions or explanations.
- Disclose all digital tools used in modeling or graphing.
- Verify computer-generated outputs with independent reasoning.
Technology supports your analysis — it should never replace it.
Citing Formulas and Theoretical Sources
Formulas, models, and statistical techniques have intellectual origins that should be recognized.
When using them:
- Cite original creators or standard references.
- Include the source for adapted models (e.g., regression or optimization algorithms).
- Reference theoretical frameworks (like probability distributions) used in your IA.
Example:
Regression model adapted from the World Bank Economic Data Report (2024).
Citation isn’t just for literature — mathematics deserves intellectual credit too.
Avoiding Misrepresentation in Graphs and Statistics
Data visualization can unintentionally (or deliberately) distort interpretation. To stay accurate:
- Use correct scales and units in graphs.
- Avoid truncating axes to exaggerate trends.
- Label all variables and legends clearly.
- Distinguish between correlation and causation.
- Discuss limitations of your model openly.
Integrity ensures your graphs communicate truth — not persuasion.
Honest Reflection in Mathematical Evaluation
In your IA or extended essay, reflection demonstrates your understanding of both process and precision.
Reflect honestly on:
- Calculation or rounding errors.
- Limitations of data or models.
- Simplifications made during analysis.
- Possible improvements or extensions.
Mathematical reflection is not about admitting failure — it’s about showing growth through accuracy.
Avoiding Collusion and Over-Assistance
Collaboration in math can easily blur boundaries.
- Discuss methods, not answers, with peers.
- Do not share code, IA drafts, or solutions.
- Acknowledge legitimate help from teachers or mentors.
- Maintain your own documentation for verification.
Integrity means your results belong entirely to your reasoning.
Ethics in Mathematical Application
Beyond the classroom, mathematics influences everything — finance, climate, health, and technology. Ethical awareness means understanding how your work affects the world.
- Use mathematical models responsibly in sensitive contexts.
- Avoid manipulating data to support opinions.
- Recognize limitations of predictive or economic modeling.
- Consider equity and sustainability when interpreting results.
Integrity ensures that your math contributes to understanding — not distortion.
How RevisionDojo Supports Mathematical Integrity
RevisionDojo helps IB Mathematics students balance accuracy with ethics through:
- Guides on mathematical reasoning and transparent calculation.
- Lessons on ethical modeling and responsible data analysis.
- Tutorials on calculator use and reflection writing.
- Examples of IAs that demonstrate precision and honesty.
RevisionDojo helps students see math not only as numbers — but as truth in action.
Conclusion: Integrity Is Mathematics in Practice
Mathematics reveals patterns that govern reality — but integrity ensures those patterns are represented faithfully.
Every honest step, justified decision, and transparent reflection proves that your understanding is your own.
In IB Mathematics, integrity transforms calculation into insight and accuracy into credibility.
The equation is simple: Truth + Method = Integrity.
RevisionDojo Call to Action
Calculate honestly. Reflect accurately.
Join RevisionDojo to master precise reasoning, ethical modeling, and reflective mathematical writing — the true formula for integrity in IB Mathematics.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What counts as misconduct in IB Mathematics?
Copying IA solutions, using AI-generated explanations, or falsifying data all violate IB integrity standards.
2. Can I use online formulas or methods?
Yes, but always cite the source and explain it in your own words.
3. How should I handle rounding or estimation errors?
Show approximations clearly and discuss their effects on final results.
4. Can I use AI or software like Desmos?
Yes, for visualization or computation — but not for generating reasoning or writing. Disclose all tools used.
5. How does RevisionDojo help maintain mathematical integrity?
RevisionDojo teaches clear reasoning, honest evaluation, and ethical data analysis — empowering IB students to work with precision and integrity.
