Why Topic-Based Practice is More Effective
When preparing for IB exams, practice questions are essential—but how you use them matters. Topic-sorted questions are far more effective than random drills because they:
- Target weak areas directly
- Reinforce recent lessons
- Build confidence through focused mastery
Unlike randomized past papers, topic-specific practice lets you drill one concept—like stoichiometry or historiography—until it’s solid.
Challenges IB Students Face Without Organized Questions
The most common complaints among IB students?
- “I waste time searching for relevant past questions.”
- “I feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content.”
- “I don’t know where to start.”
Without a topic-organized system, students end up revising everything but mastering nothing.
Benefits of Topic-Sorted IB Question Banks
✅ Saves Time and Reduces Overwhelm
With organized topic filters, you don’t need to sift through PDFs or guess what’s relevant.
✅ Aligns With IB Syllabus Structure
Most IB subjects follow predictable syllabus outlines. Practicing per topic means you’re syncing directly with how exams are structured.
✅ Enhances IA and EE Planning
Looking for real-life data in Biology or examples for TOK? Filter by relevant topics and find data-rich or analytical questions that support your arguments.
How RevisionDojo Organizes IB Questions by Topic
RevisionDojo has taken the guesswork out of past paper prep by offering a smart topic-based filtering system across every IB subject.
Subject Coverage Overview
- Math AA/AI: Algebra, Calculus, Trigonometry, Statistics
- Sciences: Organic Chemistry, Genetics, Motion, Energy
- Humanities: Cold War, Global Interactions, Microeconomics
- TOK & EE: Exhibition examples, KQ ideas, AOK question filters
Smart Filtering Features
- Filter by topic, difficulty level, and exam paper type
- Bookmark frequently missed question types
- Download or simulate timed quizzes based on your filters
Example Topics
- Trigonometry → Filtered AA questions from Paper 1 SL & HL
- Organic Chemistry → Filtered by difficulty + mark schemes
- Cold War → Paper 2 History questions + examiner commentary
Best Practices for Using Topic-Sorted Questions
Start With Weak Topics First
- Identify which topics you frequently miss
- Prioritize those for question drilling
Use in Parallel With Class Notes
- After each lesson, practice 5–10 questions on that topic
- Use strategies from our IB Note Organization guide to align notes with question banks
Integrate With Timed Practice
- Once you master a topic, simulate full paper sections under exam conditions
- Use RevisionDojo’s timed test builder to reinforce knowledge
Using Topic-Based Questions for IAs and TOK
Topic sorting isn't just for exam prep—it’s powerful for research-based tasks too.
Data Collection for IAs
- Use filtered Science and Math questions for lab/IA idea inspiration
- Cross-reference with past mark schemes to see what examiners expect
Source-Based Learning in Humanities
- Analyze real DBQs or economics stimulus material based on your IA theme
- Reinforce argument construction and source evaluation
TOK Exhibitions and Essays
- Find topic-linked real-life situations for exhibitions
- Practice structuring claims and counterclaims using KQ-driven questions
Creating a Custom Topic-Based Study Plan
Prioritize by Exam Weight
Some topics are tested more heavily. Focus there first to maximize points.
Set Weekly Topic Goals
- Week 1: Algebra (Math), Thermodynamics (Chem), Civil Rights (History)
- Week 2: Calculus, Genetics, World Wars
Mix Across Subjects
Don’t drill one subject endlessly. Alternate days to keep your brain fresh and boost cross-disciplinary skills.
Feedback and Reflection With Topic Practice
Tracking your performance is just as important as practicing.
Self-Assessment Logs
- Note which topics you got wrong
- Reflect on why—was it a formula error, misinterpretation, or poor timing?
Color-Coded Progress Sheets
- Green: Mastered
- Yellow: Needs more practice
- Red: Weak or unfamiliar topics
🧠 FAQs: Topic-Sorted IB Questions
1. Are topic-sorted questions better than full past papers?
Use both! Topic-sorted questions help master content. Past papers simulate the real exam.
2. How many questions should I do per topic?
Aim for 5–10 per session per topic. Increase for topics with higher exam weight.
3. Where can I get topic-sorted IB questions?
RevisionDojo offers a full topic-organized question bank with filters by subject, difficulty, and paper type.
4. Should I study only weak topics?
Start with weak ones but rotate in mastered topics for spaced repetition.
5. Can I use these for group study?
Yes! Challenge friends on specific topics to keep study sessions focused and fun.
6. How does this help with IAs and EEs?
Filtered questions help you build arguments, analyze sources, and identify data patterns that can inform your research.
🚀 Call to Action: Study Smarter with Topic-Sorted Questions on RevisionDojo
Stop studying aimlessly. Start targeting exactly what you need.
✅ Filter by topic, difficulty, and subject
✅ Reinforce classwork with aligned past paper questions
✅ Build smarter IAs, TOK arguments, and EE foundations
🎯 Join thousands of IB students using RevisionDojo.com
📈 Find exactly what you need—and nothing you don’t.
