1. November 2025 TOK Essay Titles
Here are the official prescribed titles released by the IB for the November 2025 session:
- For historians and artists, do conventions limit or expand their ability to produce knowledge?
(Refer to history and the arts.) - What is the relationship between knowing and understanding?
(Refer to two Areas of Knowledge – AOKs.) - Should knowledge in an area of knowledge be pursued for its own sake rather than for its potential application?
(Use mathematics and one other AOK.) - To what extent do you agree that however the methods of an area of knowledge change, the scope remains the same?
(Refer to two AOKs.) - In the pursuit of knowledge, is it possible or even desirable to set aside temporarily what we already know?
(Refer to the natural sciences and one other AOK.) - Is empathy an attribute that is equally important for a historian and a human scientist?
(Refer to history and the human sciences.)
2. How to Choose the Best Title for You
- Structured vs open-ended: Titles like #3 and #4 are more closed—easier to structure. Titles #1 and #2 are more abstract but offer room for deep critique.
- AOK familiarity: If you're strong in mathematics and another discipline, title #3 could be an excellent fit.
- Interest-driven: Pick a question that aligns with your passions—the more engaged you feel, the stronger your essay will shine.
3. Essay Structure: A Proven Format
Use this classic 4-part structure recommended by IBMastery and other TOK experts:
- Introduction (100–150 words): Define key terms, identify your chosen AOKs, and outline your roadmap.
- Development 1 (~600 words): Claim and counterclaim within the first AOK, supported by specific examples.
- Development 2 (~600 words): Claim and counterclaim within the second AOK, again backed by evidence.
- Conclusion (200–250 words): Weigh the claims, reflect on implications, and if possible, note unresolved questions or limitations.
4. Essential Writing Strategies
- Define crucial terms precisely (e.g., "conventions," "scope," "empathy"). Clear definitions are essential.
- Use claim–counterclaim format in each body section to demonstrate critical thinking.
- Select strong real-world examples reflecting your AOKs. Quality over quantity matters.
- Reflect on implications and limitations especially in your conclusion.
- Include TOK terminology (Ways of Knowing, knowledge questions, shared/personal knowledge) to demonstrate command of the subject.
- Avoid clichés or recycled templates. Examiners can detect unoriginal essays/
5. Categorizing the Titles for Easier Planning
TOK questions can be grouped into categories that guide your analytical focus :
- Methods, Tools & Technology – Titles #1 and #4
- Epistemic/Core Knowledge Questions – Titles #2 and #5
- Ethics of Knowledge & Empathy – Titles #5 and #6
- Development of Knowledge – Titles #3 and #5
Understanding your title’s type helps you align your structure with the examiner’s expectations.
6. Quick Title Insights
- Title 1 (Conventions & artists/historians): Explore how conventions both constrain and enable, e.g., art genres versus historical methodology.
- Title 2 (Knowing vs understanding): Contrast procedural vs conceptual knowledge across AOKs.
- Title 3 (Intrinsic vs instrumental value): Argue both the importance of knowledge for its own sake and its applications.
- Title 4 (Change in method vs scope): Discuss whether new methods expand or maintain the reach of knowledge.
- Title 5 (Set aside prior knowledge): Address questioning assumptions in science—Newton vs Einstein.
- Title 6 (Empathy in history/human sciences): Evaluate empathy’s role in interpretation and bias acknowledgment.
7. Why This Matters
Mastering TOK essay writing opens doors to global academic and critical thinking skills. These essays teach you how to analyze, reflect, and argue with nuance—skills that transcend the classroom.
8. Boost Your Score with RevisionDojo
RevisionDojo offers targeted TOK resources designed to elevate your essay:
- Detailed breakdowns of each November 2025 title
- Support with title selection, term definitions, and structure
- Sample arguments and real-life examples
- Feedback on claim-counterclaim balance and TOK reasoning
Visit RevisionDojo.com to enhance your essay writing and confidently aim for a top grade.
Final Thoughts
Writing a standout TOK essay requires choice, structure, precision, and insight. By selecting a title that excites you, using a structured approach, and engaging critically with knowledge questions, you can produce a powerful and reflective essay.
