One of the most confusing experiences for IB students is receiving a low or mid-range grade on an IA despite doing what they believe was “good research.” They may have used credible sources, collected detailed data, and spent significant time gathering information — yet the final mark does not reflect that effort.
This happens because IB IAs are not assessed on research quality alone.
Research Is Expected, Not Rewarded
In IB coursework, good research is a baseline expectation. Examiners assume that students will:
- Use appropriate sources
- Collect relevant data
- Follow basic academic conventions
While poor research can limit marks, good research on its own does not earn high marks. What matters is how research is used.
Research Without Analysis Is Descriptive
Many IAs with strong research still score low because the research is presented rather than analysed.
Common issues include:
- Summarising sources instead of interpreting them
- Presenting findings without explaining significance
- Reporting data without linking it to the research question
This turns the IA into an information report rather than an investigation.
Examiners Mark Thinking, Not Finding
IB examiners are assessing students’ thinking. They want to see:
- Interpretation of evidence
- Reasoned arguments
- Justified conclusions
Research only becomes valuable when it supports these skills. Evidence that is not analysed contributes little to final marks.
Too Much Research Can Weaken Focus
Students often believe that including more research strengthens credibility. In reality, excessive research can:
