Extended Essay: Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

The IB Extended Essay (EE) is one of the most challenging components of the Diploma Programme. It’s your chance to conduct independent research and showcase university-level writing skills. However, many students lose marks not because of weak ideas, but because of avoidable mistakes.

At Frontier Tuition, we’ve guided hundreds of IB students through the Extended Essay process. Here are the most common pitfalls — and how you can avoid them.

1. Choosing the Wrong Topic

One of the biggest EE mistakes is selecting a topic that’s either too broad or too complex. A vague or overly ambitious topic makes it difficult to stay focused within the 4,000-word limit.

✅ Tip: Pick a topic that’s specific, manageable, and genuinely interesting to you. Narrow your focus so you can go deep rather than wide.

2. Weak Research Question

Your research question is the backbone of your EE. A poorly phrased or descriptive question leads to a weak argument and low marks in the “Focus and Method” criterion.

✅ Tip: Use question stems like “To what extent…,” “How significant…,” or “What factors contributed to…” to create an analytical question that invites critical thinking.

3. Not Using Enough Academic Sources

Wikipedia and casual blogs are not sufficient. The IB expects credible academic research and proper citations. Using weak sources undermines your argument.

✅ Tip: Use scholarly databases, peer-reviewed journals, and books. Keep a running bibliography from day one to save time later.

4. Poor Time Management

Many students underestimate how long the EE takes. Leaving it to the last minute leads to rushed writing and limited feedback opportunities.

✅ Tip: Create a timeline with clear milestones — topic selection, research, outline, first draft, final draft. Regularly check progress with your supervisor or tutor, and plan many months ahead.

5. Ignoring the Assessment Criteria

The IB uses a specific rubric to grade the EE. If you don’t align your essay with these criteria, you’ll lose easy marks.

✅ Tip: Review the rubric regularly, especially during revisions. Make sure your essay demonstrates reflection, analysis, and clear communication.

6. Weak Analysis and Over-Description

Students often spend too much time summarising sources rather than analysing them. The EE is about interpretation, not storytelling.

✅ Tip: After every paragraph, ask yourself: “Am I analysing evidence or just describing it?” Ensure every section links back to your research question.

7. Neglecting the Reflection Process

The Reflection on Planning and Progress Form (RPPF) is worth a significant portion of your EE grade. Many students treat it as an afterthought.

✅ Tip: Write honest reflections that show growth and engagement with your topic. Discuss challenges, adjustments, and insights — not just a summary of what you did.

Final Thoughts: Avoiding Extended Essay Mistakes

The Extended Essay is a valuable opportunity to develop skills that universities love: research, critical thinking, and independent study. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can turn a stressful project into a rewarding experience.

At Frontier Tuition, our experienced IB tutors can guide you through every stage — from crafting your research question to refining your final draft.

👉 Start your Extended Essay the right way. Contact Frontier Tuition today to get expert guidance from IB specialists.