Introduction
The IB Extended Essay (EE) is one of the most significant challenges of the Diploma Programme. At up to 4,000 words, it tests your ability to conduct independent research, develop arguments, and present findings in a formal academic style.
A strong EE can boost your overall diploma score, while a weak one can drag you down. Unfortunately, many students lose marks because of avoidable errors. This guide highlights the most common IB Extended Essay mistakes and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Choosing a Weak or Overly Broad Topic
Your research question is the foundation of the EE. Many students choose topics that are either too broad to analyze deeply or too vague to answer clearly.
Example of a weak topic:
- “The causes of World War II.” (far too broad)
Better version:
- “To what extent did the Treaty of Versailles contribute to Germany’s economic instability in the 1920s?”
How to avoid this mistake:
- Narrow your scope.
- Ensure the question is measurable, arguable, and researchable.
Mistake #2: Ignoring the Subject Guidelines
Each EE must fit within a specific subject framework. Writing a History EE that drifts into Literature, or a Biology EE that lacks scientific methodology, often leads to lost marks.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Read the official IB subject guide.
- Align your methodology with the subject you’ve chosen.
- Ask your supervisor if your approach matches the subject criteria.
Mistake #3: Weak Structure
Even with strong research, a poorly structured essay is difficult to follow. Common issues include missing introductions, weak arguments, and abrupt conclusions.
