IB IA ideas by subject

A 30-minute feasibility check before choosing an ambitious idea

Novelty is useful only if it leads to a question you can investigate with the methods, data and time available. Use the schedule below as an optional planning exercise, not an IB requirement. A modest question with traceable data and thoughtful evaluation is more workable than a spectacular title with no feasible measurement plan.

Write down the smallest pilot you could run. If you cannot explain the variables, collect a small sample or identify a legitimate dataset, narrow the question before committing. Keep a record of sources and permissions, and obtain teacher approval before any investigation involving people, biological material or safety risks.

Explore Mathematics AA SL examples · Explore Physics SL examples · Improve the investigation rather than the title

• Define the outcome you will measure, model or interpret.
• Check whether the required equipment or dataset is actually available.
• Name a likely limitation and how you could evaluate its effect.

The five-question test for a good IA idea

Before choosing a topic, ask whether you can control one independent variable, measure one dependent variable, test a model, collect enough data and explain a real limitation. Add a personal angle only when it helps the investigation instead of forcing it.

If the idea cannot produce a table, graph, calculation and evaluation paragraph, it is not ready for teacher approval.

Choose the subject route

Math IAs work when the mathematics does real work: modelling, optimisation, regression, derivation, proof or comparison. Physics IAs work when the setup is controlled enough that uncertainty does not bury the effect.

IA idea mistakes that waste weeks

Weak IA ideas are usually too broad, impossible to control, unsafe, dependent on equipment you cannot access, or dressed up with advanced maths that does not explain the data.

For retake students, remember that IBretake does not arrange IA supervision. If changing IA matters to your grade, confirm the option with your school or coordinator before assuming a host school can do it.

One-page plan before writing

Before writing the introduction, make a one-page plan: research question, variables, equipment, method, data table, model, graph, uncertainty and evaluation limitation.

If that page looks vague, change the topic while it is still cheap to change.