Introduction

One of the biggest challenges in IB Psychology is remembering and using the right studies in exams. Examiners don't just want names and dates — they want analysis.

Here's how to use studies strategically to maximize your marks.

Quality Over Quantity

It's better to know a smaller number of studies in detail than to memorise dozens superficially.

Tip:

Choose 3-4 key studies per topic and learn them thoroughly: methodology, findings, limitations, and applications. This depth is more valuable than knowing names of 20 studies.

Focus on studies that can be applied to multiple topics or questions. Versatile studies give you more options in exams.

Use the TEEL Structure

Structure your responses clearly using TEEL to integrate studies effectively with your arguments.

Topic sentence

Introduce the concept you're discussing.

Evidence

Bring in the study — methodology and findings.

Explanation

Show what the study proves about your topic.

Link

Connect it back to the question.

This structure ensures you're not just listing studies, but using them as evidence to support your arguments.

Evaluate, Don't Just Describe

High-scoring answers discuss limitations: sample size, cultural bias, methodology.

Key evaluation points to consider:

Sample size: Was it large enough to be representative?
Cultural bias: Can findings apply to other cultures?
Methodology: Were controls adequate? Any confounding variables?
Ethics: Any ethical concerns that might affect validity?
Replication: Have similar studies found the same results?

Remember: evaluation shows critical thinking. Examiners want to see you can analyze research, not just memorize it.

Practise Retrieval

Test yourself on study names, methods, and findings using flashcards or quizzes.

Create flashcards with study name on one side, details on the other
Practice writing study descriptions from memory
Quiz yourself on which studies apply to different topics
Time yourself explaining studies to build exam speed

Regular retrieval practice strengthens memory and helps you recall studies under exam pressure.

Connect Studies to Multiple Topics

The best studies can be used to answer different types of questions. Learn how each study connects to various psychological concepts.

Example: Milgram's study can be used for:

Obedience and conformity
Research methods and ethics
Social cognitive theory
Cultural influences on behavior

Enhance Your Psychology Studies

Study Marker can help you turn syllabus points into quiz questions, making recall practice simple and effective.

Practice study recall and application across different psychological topics.

Final Thought

Using studies effectively means going beyond memorisation. Learn them deeply, link them to concepts, and always evaluate. That's what examiners reward.

Remember: Studies are tools to support your arguments, not the arguments themselves. Use them strategically to demonstrate understanding of psychological concepts and critical thinking skills.

IB Psychology: How to Use Studies Effectively in Exams