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How to Get High Marks in IB

Proven strategies and actionable tips from 15+ years of IB teaching experience.

10 Key Strategies for IB Success

1

Master the Assessment Criteria

Every IB assessment has specific criteria. Read rubrics carefully, understand what examiners look for, and structure your work to hit every criterion. This alone can boost your grades by 1-2 bands.

2

Start Coursework Early

IA, EE, and TOK require significant time. Start early to allow for research, drafting, feedback, and multiple revisions. Last-minute work is obvious to examiners.

3

Seek Feedback Before Submission

Get your work reviewed by teachers or tutors before final submission. External feedback identifies blind spots and ensures rubric alignment.

4

Practice Past Papers

Past papers are your best exam preparation tool. Practice under timed conditions, mark your work against mark schemes, and identify recurring question types.

5

Focus on Command Terms

IB questions use specific command terms (analyze, evaluate, discuss, etc.). Learn what each term requires and structure your answers accordingly.

6

Master Time Management

Create a realistic study schedule that balances all subjects, coursework, and CAS. Use tools like calendars and task lists to stay organized.

7

Develop Strong Study Habits

Quality over quantity. Use active recall, spaced repetition, and practice questions instead of passive rereading. Take regular breaks to maintain focus.

8

Understand Examiner Expectations

Examiners reward clarity, conciseness, and direct answers. Avoid unnecessary waffle. Answer the question asked, not the question you wish was asked.

9

Prioritize High-Impact Work

Not all tasks are equal. Focus on coursework (IA, EE, TOK) early as these are worth 20-30% of your final grade and are fully within your control.

10

Get Expert Help When Stuck

Don't struggle alone. Expert tutoring can quickly clarify concepts, fill knowledge gaps, and teach you exam techniques that take years to learn independently.

Subject-Specific Tips

Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)

  • • Draw clear, labeled diagrams
  • • Show all steps in calculations
  • • Use correct scientific terminology
  • • Connect theory to real-world examples

Mathematics

  • • Show full working for all steps
  • • Use correct notation and units
  • • Check answers make sense
  • • Practice calculator skills

Languages & Literature

  • • Use textual evidence in every paragraph
  • • Analyze, don't just describe
  • • Link to broader themes and contexts
  • • Develop clear thesis statements

Social Sciences (Economics, Business, Psychology)

  • • Define key terms precisely
  • • Use real-world examples
  • • Apply theories to scenarios
  • • Evaluate from multiple perspectives

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Don't Do

  • • Wait until the last minute
  • • Ignore rubrics and mark schemes
  • • Memorize without understanding
  • • Skip past paper practice
  • • Work in isolation without feedback
  • • Neglect coursework components

Do This Instead

  • • Start early and plan ahead
  • • Study rubrics before every task
  • • Focus on conceptual understanding
  • • Practice regularly with past papers
  • • Seek feedback from teachers/tutors
  • • Prioritize IA, EE, and TOK

Ready to Achieve Your Target Grades?

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