Extended Essay Topics: How to Choose a Strong One
How to choose an IB Extended Essay topic: subject or interdisciplinary pathway, narrowing an idea, checking sources, plus 10 example topics across subjects.
11 minRead guide
Extended Essay (EE) Guides
Everything you need to write an outstanding Extended Essay, from initial idea to final submission.
The Extended Essay (EE) is a 4,000-word independent research project and one of the three parts of the IB Diploma core. Together with TOK it can earn up to 3 extra points, and an E in either is a failing condition. A new EE guide applies from May 2027: five criteria worth 30 marks, with reflection marked from a single 500-word reflective statement. November 2026 candidates still use the previous guide. Our guides cover every stage, from choosing a topic and research question to structure, referencing and academic writing, and say which rules apply to which session.
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
- Your supervisor comments on one draft, so make it a complete one
- Start earlier than you think you need to
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IB Extended Essay tutoring: 1-to-1 help with the criteria, research skills and academic writingGuides in This Category
Extended Essay Structure, Order and Format (2027 Guide)
The correct order of an IB Extended Essay, what goes on the title page, font, spacing and page number rules, and what counts in 4,000 words, for 2026 and 2027.
14 minRead guide
Extended Essay Research Question: Rules and Examples
How to write an IB Extended Essay research question: the official rules for 2026 and 2027, a four-step method, and weak versus strong examples by subject.
10 minRead guide
How to Write an Extended Essay: Academic Writing Guide
How to write an IB Extended Essay that scores well: a clear line of argument, analysis not description, sources and terminology, and evaluation throughout.
12 minRead guide
IB Citation Format: Referencing Your Extended Essay
There is no single IB citation format. See what every EE reference must include, how to cite websites and AI, and what counts towards the 4,000-word limit.
13 minRead guide
Biology Extended Essay Ideas: 32 Research Questions
32 Biology EE research questions with why each works, experimental vs secondary data, safety and ethics, and how the new 2027 EE criteria apply.
17 minRead guide
Chemistry Extended Essay Ideas: 30 Research Questions
30 Chemistry EE research questions that test real models, with what to avoid, lab safety, data-based options and how the new 2027 EE criteria apply.
15 minRead guide
Economics Extended Essay Ideas: 30 Research Questions
30 Economics EE research questions with the theory and free data behind each, common mistakes, and how the new 2027 EE criteria apply to Economics.
14 minRead guide
English Extended Essay Ideas: 35 Example Questions
35 English A extended essay research questions with why each works, what replaced Categories 1, 2 and 3, and how the new 2027 EE criteria are applied.
21 minRead guide
History Extended Essay Ideas: 30 Research Questions
30 History EE research questions with the sources and debates behind each, the 10-year rule, how to write a History EE, and the new 2027 criteria.
15 minRead guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Pick a subject you're genuinely interested in, with a focused question that can be explored in 4,000 words. Ensure you have access to enough sources and that a supervisor is available. Our topic selection guide walks you through the full process.
Yes, but earlier is better. Discuss concerns with your supervisor promptly. Minor refinements to research questions are normal; major changes late in the process can leave you rushed.
The IB recommends about 40 hours of work in total, spread across the course. Most schools run the EE from late IB1 into IB2, with three reflection sessions with your supervisor, the last one after the essay is finished. Starting in IB1 gives you time to test a research question before you commit.
Only in limited ways. The IB does not allow help with the research, writing or proofreading of the essay beyond what your supervisor gives. A tutor can help you build general skills, such as how an academic argument or a referencing system works, using material that is not your essay. Your supervisor is the person who comments on your draft.