Introduction
Your IB Math IA introduction sets the stage for your entire exploration. A clear, engaging, and focused introduction helps examiners understand your purpose and enthusiasm—and can boost your score in both Criterion B (Mathematical Communication) and Criterion C (Personal Engagement). In this guide, we break down the essential components of a strong Math IA introduction.
Why Is the IB Math IA Introduction Important?
✅ It shows personal engagement, helping you score in Criterion C.
✅ It provides context and clarity for your investigation.
✅ It ensures your research question is focused and manageable.
✅ It helps examiners follow your reasoning and purpose from the start.
5 Essential Elements of a Top-Scoring Math IA Introduction
Start with an Engaging Hook
Open with an interesting fact, real-world link, or question related to your topic. This grabs the reader’s attention and shows why your investigation matters.
Example:
"Why do some musical note combinations sound pleasing while others sound dissonant? The answer lies in the mathematics of frequency ratios."
Explain Your Personal Interest (Show Engagement)
Briefly describe why you chose this topic. Examiners want to see your curiosity and enthusiasm.
Tip: Link your topic to hobbies, passions, or real-life experiences.
Provide Clear Background Context
Introduce any key concepts, definitions, or theories that the reader needs to understand your topic. Keep it concise but informative.
Example: Define important terms like “harmonics” or “logarithms” if your IA involves sound frequencies.
State Your Research Question Clearly
Write a precise, focused research question. This gives direction to your IA.
Example:
"How do the frequency ratios of musical notes determine the perceived consonance or dissonance of intervals in Western music?"
Outline Your Approach
Briefly explain how you plan to investigate the question. Mention key models, methods, or tools (e.g., statistical analysis, algebraic modeling).
Example IB Math IA Introduction
"Music and mathematics have long been intertwined, with mathematical ratios underlying musical harmony. I have always been fascinated by how numbers can explain the beauty of music. In this IA, I aim to explore the mathematical relationships between the frequencies of musical notes, focusing on the ratios that create harmonious sounds. Specifically, I will investigate how these ratios correspond to the structure of musical scales by applying concepts from algebra and logarithms. Through this exploration, I hope to uncover patterns that reveal the deep connection between math and music."
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Your Math IA Introduction
🚫 Writing a generic, impersonal introduction with no connection to your interests.
🚫 Failing to clearly state your research question.
🚫 Including too much technical detail—save that for the main body.
🚫 Using overly complex language or concepts without explanation.
Summary Checklist
Engaging hook: Captures attention and draws the reader in.
Personal motivation: Shows curiosity, enthusiasm, and genuine engagement.
Background context: Provides necessary definitions and concepts to help the reader understand your topic.
Clear research question: Guides your investigation with a precise, focused aim.
Outline of approach: Prepares the reader by summarizing how you plan to explore the question.
Conclusion
Writing a strong IB Math IA introduction is your chance to make a great first impression. Choose a topic you care about, state your question clearly, and show enthusiasm for your exploration. This sets the foundation for a coherent and compelling IA.
👉 Need help structuring your entire Math IA? Check out tools on RevisionDojo!
