If you are writing an Extended Essay, keep in mind that you are not the first candidate to do so. Here are some general tips from former IB students, who have 'learned the hard way'. Their advice is presented as a list of dos and don'ts. As always a 'do' is the flip side of a 'don't'. What's more, these things are more easily said than done. Share the one-page handout with students and supervisors.  

Google Doc: The Do's and Don'ts of the EE

DO DON'T
Plan ahead. Make a realistic schedule and stick to it. Wait till the last minute. Research and writing usually take longer than you think.
Work with your supervisor. They have experience and expertise! Ignore your supervisor’s advice. It's OK to disagree with them. But they have your interest in mind.
Think deeply about a good research question. Getting the wording right early helps you focus and research effectively. Obsess over the wording of your RQ too early in the process. You can make changes as you go.
Use AI wisely and ethically. Your EE Coordinator will use Turnitin or another AI checker. Put yourself in a position where you have taken shortcuts and cannot account for research, writing or experience.  
Consider your research method. You’ll need a kind of ‘work flow’ to gather and process information. Use a Researcher's Reflection Space (RRS) or notebook effectively. Write without a plan or think it will come together naturally. Research requires discipline and structure. Methodology is assessed. 
Review, revise and rewrite. Read your work aloud. Get feedback and apply it. Write in isolation. You'll need to make many changes over a period of time.  
Format correctly. The tile page, page numbers, figure numbers and bibliography matter. Lose marks on Criterion A: Framework unnecessarily.
Take the Reflection (RPF) seriously. Evaluate your essay and journey. Write a compelling story about your 'growth' Underestimate the reflection. It's not a formality. It's a requirement.
ATLs

One of the Approaches to Learning is self management. Many of the skills listed in these dos and don'ts relate to self-management skills. In essence, this project challenges candidates to develop good research habits, such as maintaining a journal and sticking to deadlines.

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Last modified: Saturday, 7 February 2026, 10:25 AM