Introduction
Databases are a central part of the IB Computer Science syllabus. They appear in Paper 1, influence IA projects, and test your ability to design, query, and explain how data is stored and managed. Many students overcomplicate this section by trying to learn every database technology available. The good news is that the IB only requires you to master fundamental database concepts and SQL.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly which databases you need to learn, how much SQL knowledge is expected, and how RevisionDojo can help you practice effectively.
Quick Start Checklist
For IB Computer Science, focus on:
- ✅ Relational Databases (tables, fields, primary/foreign keys).
- ✅ Entity-Relationship (ER) Diagrams.
- ✅ Normalization (up to 3NF).
- ✅ SQL Basics: SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE.
- ✅ SQL Queries with WHERE, JOIN, GROUP BY, ORDER BY.
Core Database Concepts You Need to Know
1. Relational Databases
- Organize data into structured tables.
- Use primary keys (unique identifiers) and foreign keys (links between tables).
- Foundation for most IA projects.
2. ER Diagrams
- Visual tools that represent tables and relationships.
- Examiners may ask you to design or interpret them in Paper 1.
3. Normalization
- Process of reducing redundancy and improving data integrity.
- Understand 1NF, 2NF, and 3NF with examples.
4. SQL (Structured Query Language)
You don’t need advanced SQL, but you must be able to:
- Retrieve data with
SELECT. - Filter using
WHERE. - Join tables using
INNER JOIN. - Group results with
GROUP BY. - Insert, update, and delete records.
How Databases Appear in IB Exams
- Paper 1: Questions on ER diagrams, normalization, and SQL queries.
- Paper 2 (HL): Application-based questions involving algorithms and databases.
- IA: Many projects require a backend database — whether for inventory, scheduling, or user tracking.
Common Mistakes Students Make
- Learning overly advanced SQL functions not required by the syllabus.
- Forgetting to annotate ER diagrams in exams.
- Confusing primary and foreign keys.
- Writing SQL in programming syntax instead of standard SQL.
Best Database Tools for Practice
- SQLite – Lightweight, simple, and perfect for IA projects.
- MySQL – Popular open-source option with real-world relevance.
- PostgreSQL – More advanced but rarely necessary for IB.
Choose a database system that’s easy to set up and aligns with your IA needs.
How RevisionDojo Helps
RevisionDojo provides database revision packs with:
- Simplified ER diagram examples.
- SQL query practice questions with answers.
- Step-by-step guides to normalization.
- IA templates showing how to integrate databases effectively.
With our resources, you’ll spend less time guessing and more time practicing exactly what the IB expects.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to memorize all SQL commands?
No. Focus on core commands like SELECT, WHERE, JOIN, and GROUP BY. Examiners reward clarity, not advanced SQL tricks.
Q: Can I use a database library in my IA (like SQLite in Python)?
Yes. Many IA projects integrate databases through Python or Java libraries. Just make sure you explain your implementation clearly.
Q: Do HL students need to know more databases than SL?
HL students often get more complex database questions, especially combining queries with algorithms. But the core database concepts are the same.
Conclusion
For IB Computer Science, you only need to learn relational databases, ER diagrams, normalization, and basic SQL. These skills will prepare you for Paper 1, support your IA, and give you practical problem-solving experience. Avoid wasting time on advanced database systems and instead focus on the fundamentals.
With RevisionDojo’s database notes and SQL practice questions, you’ll master exactly what examiners want and confidently aim for a 7.
