Extended Essay Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Initial Steps

1. Subject Selection: Choose an available Diploma Programme subject for your extended essay, considering any restrictions imposed by your school.
2. Material Review: Thoroughly read the assessment criteria, the relevant subject-specific chapter of the Extended Essay Guide, the IB's ethical guidelines, and other associated policies (e.g., those relating to animal experiments).
3. Research Reflection Space (RRS): Set up your RRS and utilize it as the primary tool for planning and reflecting throughout the extended essay process.
4. Topic Selection and Background Reading: Choose a topic and conduct preliminary background reading to gain a foundational understanding.
5. Research Question Formulation: Develop a preliminary research question, incorporating an IB command term if possible.
6. Research and Writing Plan: Create an outline plan for your research and writing process, including a timeline with deadlines.
7. Source Identification: Begin identifying potential sources for your research and determine where you will gather them.
8. Referencing System: Choose an academic referencing system that meets the minimum requirements set by the IB.
9. Deadline Setting: Establish realistic deadlines for yourself, taking into account your school's internal deadlines.
10. Essay Structure Planning: Plan a preliminary structure for your essay, understanding that it may evolve as your research progresses.

Research and Development

1. Preparatory Reading: Conduct preparatory reading based on your proposed research question. If you find that obtaining the necessary evidence within the available time is not feasible, revise your research question promptly. Avoid waiting and hoping for evidence to appear; instead, revisit stages 1-3 and select a new, achievable research question.
2. Research Execution: Carry out your research, assembling the collected material in a logical order that aligns with your essay's structure and directly addresses your research question. This will help you determine if you have sufficient evidence for each stage of your argument. Be prepared for unexpected challenges or discoveries during your research that may require revisions to your research plan.