Writing a Strong Commentary
- A commentary is a short paragraph that explains the TOK significance of an object or example.
- A strong commentary should:
- Briefly describe the object (enough for the examiner to know what it is).
- Link the object directly to the chosen prompt.
- Analyse what the object reveals about knowledge, its assumptions, limits, or implications.
A commentary is not a summary or a description. It should always connect the object to the prompt and analyse its implications.
Why Commentary Matters
- Depth of analysis: Weak exhibitions sink because they only describe the object instead of unpacking what it means for knowledge.
- Clarity of argument: Commentary is how you tie your objects together into one coherent interpretation instead of leaving them as random items.
- TOK reflection: Examiners want to see concepts like evidence, reliability, perspective, interpretation, authority applied in real-world contexts.
What Separates Strong from Weak Commentary
- Weak commentary: Describes the object or restates the prompt.
