How to Choose Your Extended Essay Topic
Choose a stronger IB Extended Essay topic with a focused subject area, realistic scope, and enough source material for a high-quality investigation.
9 minRead guide
Extended Essay (EE) Guides
Everything you need to write an outstanding Extended Essay, from initial idea to final submission.
The Extended Essay is a 4,000-word independent research project that gives you the opportunity to explore a topic you're passionate about in depth. It's one of the core components of the IB Diploma and contributes up to 3 bonus points (combined with TOK). More than marks, the EE develops research, writing, and critical thinking skills that prepare you for university. Our guides cover every stage of the process - from choosing a topic that excites you to structuring a compelling argument.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a topic you genuinely want to explore - not what seems 'safe'
- Your research question is the foundation; refine it carefully
- Plan structure before writing; know what each section will argue
- Write multiple drafts and get feedback between each
- Start earlier than you think you need to
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Guides in This Category
Extended Essay Structure and Formatting Guide
Structure your IB Extended Essay clearly with a focused introduction, logical argument, direct conclusion, and consistent formatting.
10 minRead guide
Developing Your Research Question
Write a stronger IB Extended Essay research question by making it focused, arguable, subject-appropriate, and realistic for 4,000 words.
8 minRead guide
Academic Writing Tips for Your EE
Improve your IB Extended Essay writing with clearer argument structure, stronger analysis, better paragraph control, and a more academic tone.
10 minRead guide
Citation and Referencing Guide
Cite sources correctly in your IB Extended Essay using a consistent referencing style, clear in-text citations, and a reliable bibliography.
7 minRead guide
Biology Extended Essay Ideas
Explore Biology Extended Essay ideas with clear biological relevance, realistic scope, and enough analytical depth for a strong IB Extended Essay.
9 minRead guide
Chemistry Extended Essay Ideas
Find Chemistry Extended Essay ideas that are focused, feasible, and strong enough to support clear scientific explanation and evaluation.
9 minRead guide
Economics Extended Essay Ideas
Choose Economics Extended Essay ideas with a clear economic question, usable real-world evidence, and enough room for analysis and evaluation.
9 minRead guide
English Extended Essay Ideas
Develop English Extended Essay ideas with a focused text base, a strong interpretive angle, and enough analytical depth for a high-quality essay.
9 minRead guide
History Extended Essay Ideas
Find History Extended Essay ideas with a focused historical question, realistic source access, and enough analytical depth for a strong argument.
9 minRead guide