IB Extended Essay: Common Mistakes That Cost Marks
Introduction
The Extended Essay (EE) is one of the biggest projects in the IB. At 4,000 words, it tests not only your knowledge but also your research and writing skills. Many students lose marks not because their ideas are bad, but because they make avoidable mistakes.
Here are the top EE mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Choosing a Topic That's Too Broad
"World War II propaganda" is not a research question. It's an encyclopedia entry. Instead: narrow it down.
Weak: What was the impact of propaganda in WWII?
Strong: To what extent did Nazi propaganda influence women's roles between 1939–1943?
A focused question shows depth and makes research manageable.
2. Forgetting the Criteria
The EE isn't just about ideas - it's about meeting IB criteria. Students often:
- Forget to analyse, and just describe
- Skip evaluation of sources
- Miss reflection on the process
Print the rubric and check your draft against it.
3. Not Citing Sources Properly
Plagiarism - even accidental - can ruin your essay. Use a consistent style (MLA, APA, Chicago) and cite everything, including websites and images.
4. Writing Like It's a Wikipedia Entry
Examiners want original analysis, not summaries. Your essay should show:
- Argumentation
- Evaluation of perspectives
- Your own thinking
Don't just repeat what others say - show your voice.
5. Waiting Until the Last Minute
A rushed EE is always obvious. Build in time for:
- Research and note-taking
- Drafting
- Teacher feedback
- Polishing
You can also use Study Marker to get feedback on structure, clarity, and argument before submitting.
Final Tip
The EE is not about writing the "best essay ever." It's about showing research skills, organisation, and critical thinking. Avoid these mistakes, and you'll be on track for a strong result.
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