Introduction
The Personal Project is the highlight of the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) — a chance for students to explore their passions, apply their learning, and create something truly original. But before the creative work begins, one of the most important steps is choosing the right topic.
A great topic sets the tone for the entire project. It reflects who you are, what you care about, and how you want to make an impact. This guide will help you choose a Personal Project topic that’s meaningful, achievable, and aligned with IB expectations — one that makes you excited to learn and proud to present.
Understanding the Purpose of the Personal Project
The MYP Personal Project is designed to help students:
- Apply what they’ve learned across subjects in a real-world context.
- Develop Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills like organization, research, and reflection.
- Demonstrate creativity, independence, and initiative.
- Explore their interests through one of the Global Contexts of the IB.
It’s not just about creating a product — it’s about documenting a journey of inquiry and personal growth. Choosing a topic that resonates with your interests makes that journey much more engaging.
The Key to Choosing a Great Topic: Passion + Purpose
Your project topic should sit at the intersection of two things:
- Your Passion — What excites or inspires you?
- Your Purpose — What positive impact or question will your project explore?
When passion and purpose meet, motivation follows naturally — making research, planning, and reflection much easier.
Ask yourself:
- What hobbies or activities make me lose track of time?
