The IB Maths IA (exploration): a practical guide
6 min read ยท updated 2026-10-02
The mathematical exploration is worth 20% of IB Maths at SL and HL, in both AA and AI. The best explorations start from a genuine question the student cares about and use maths at the right level to answer it.
Choosing a topic
A good topic is narrow, personal and needs real mathematics. Instead of a general topic, frame a question: for example, how the shape of a water bottle affects how quickly it empties, or which model best fits a sports statistic the student follows. Test the topic by asking which maths from the course the answer will need.
What the criteria reward
- โ Presentation: a clear, organised and concise report
- โ Mathematical communication: correct notation, labelled graphs and defined variables
- โ Personal engagement: the student's own thinking and choices, not a textbook exercise
- โ Reflection: evaluating the method, the results and their limitations
- โ Use of mathematics: correct maths, at a level matching SL or HL
A realistic timeline
- โ DP1, spring: three possible topics and a quick test of each
- โ DP1, summer: data collection or research
- โ DP2, autumn: full draft and teacher feedback
- โ Final weeks: revise against the criteria
FAQs
How much is the IB Maths IA worth?๏ผ
20% of the final grade, at SL and HL, in AA and AI.
Does the maths have to be beyond the syllabus?๏ผ
Not necessarily; it must be correct and at a level suited to the course, used well to answer the question.
Can a tutor help with the maths IA?๏ผ
With topic choice, maths skills and the criteria; the exploration must be the student's own.
Sources
Facts on this page were checked against these official sources on 2026-10-02.
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