Draw requires an accurate, labelled representation drawn to scale, whereas sketch requires the correct general shape or relationship with relevant features labelled. A sketch is less numerically precise, but it must still communicate the mathematics correctly.
This distinction applies to IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches, SL 2.3: Graphing, on both Paper 1 and Paper 2.
How the Command Terms Differ
| Command term | What the IB requires | Typical graph requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Draw | Produce a labelled, accurate diagram or graph using a pencil. Straight lines should use a ruler, and the representation should be drawn to scale. | Plot points accurately, label axes, and join points with an appropriate straight line or smooth curve. |
| Sketch | Show the general shape or relationship and include all relevant features. Exact plotting and precise scale are not the main focus. | Show features such as intercepts, vertices, asymptotes, endpoints, maxima, minima, or symmetry when relevant. |
For example, suppose you are asked to sketch
You should show an upward-opening parabola with vertex , axis of symmetry , and intercepts , , and . The spacing does not need to be perfectly measured, but the relative positions and shape must be correct.
If asked to draw the same graph from a table of values, you should plot the coordinates accurately on scaled axes and connect them with a smooth curve.
A common misconception is that “sketch” means “not to scale, so accuracy does not matter.” This is incorrect. The IB definition does not simply say “not to scale”; a sketch must still contain the relevant mathematical features and must not contradict the function.
Exam Technique
Read the command term before starting. For draw, prioritize accurate plotting, scale, labels, and appropriate drawing tools. For sketch, prioritize the correct shape and clearly labelled key features; an unlabelled curve may not earn all available marks.