IB Exam
Strategy Guide

Paper 1, 2, 3 and IA tips. Maximize your IB score with proven strategies.

General Strategy

Time Management

Paper 1: 1 mark per minute
Paper 2: 1 mark per minute
Paper 3: 1.5 marks per minute

Read all questions first (5 min)
Plan answers before writing
Save 10 min for review

Command Words

State: Give a fact
Describe: What happens
Explain: Why/How (use theory)
Discuss: Give multiple perspectives
Evaluate: Weigh evidence, make judgment

Paper 1 (Multiple Choice)

Strategy

• 45 questions in 1 hour
• 1 mark per question
• No penalty for guessing
• Eliminate obviously wrong answers
• Watch for "NOT" or "EXCEPT"
• Check units in calculations

Paper 2 (Short Answer)

Strategy

• 15 questions in 1 hour
• Mixed difficulty
• Show all working
• Use correct significant figures
• Include units in final answer
• Answer what is asked, not what you know

Paper 3 (Extended Response)

Strategy

• Data-based questions
• Analyze graphs carefully
• Use data to support arguments
• Refer to specific evidence
• Show calculations clearly
• Write in full sentences

Internal Assessment (IA)

Criteria

Personal Engagement (2 marks)
Exploration (6 marks)
Analysis (6 marks)
Evaluation (6 marks)
Communication (6 marks)

Total: 26 marks (20% of final grade)

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