HS DP Extended Essay: General Information

The extended essay is an independent, self-directed piece of research, finishing with a 4,000-word paper.

One component of the International Baccalaureate® (IB) Diploma Programme (DP) core, the extended essay is mandatory for all IBDP students.

What is the significance of the extended essay?

The extended essay provides:

• practical preparation for undergraduate research
• an opportunity for students to investigate a topic of personal interest to them, which relates to one of the student's six DP subjects, or takes the interdisciplinary approach of a World Studies extended essay.

Through the research process for the extended essay, students develop skills in:

• formulating an appropriate research question
• engaging in a personal exploration of the topic
• communicating ideas
• developing an argument. 

Participation in this process develops the capacity to analyze, synthesize and evaluate knowledge.

Source: https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/curriculum/extended-essay/

• Extended Essay Guide

  This is the complete Extended Essay guide from the IBO. You should consult the guide frequently in order to ensure that you are doing exactly what is required of you throughout the process.

• Extended Essay Subject Specific Guides

             Guidelines from the IB on each subjects’ requirements for the extended essay (EE).

• Annotated Bibliography 

  Guidelines from the IB on how to put together an annotated bibliography to help you think critically about your sources and save time.

• Sample annotated bibliographies

  Samples provided in the IB Extended Essay Guide

• How to write a research question

  From George Mason University's Writing Center, a guide to crafting a research question.

• Essay Outline from Philpot Education
  You will need to adapt for your own specifications. Also note the link to methodology. 

• Effective Citing and Referencing from the IBO

• Formatting your final EE submission

  This link directs you to the "Presentation" page of the Extended Essay Guide (online). Pay attention to the left-hand column as there are links to further information on Word Counts, Illustrations, Tables, Headers, Footnotes and Endnotes, Appendices and more.

• What goes on the EE title page?

• EE Checklist - USE BEFORE SUBMITTING

  Use this checklist to identify areas that need your focus before the final deadline.