Most students become frightened when they hear about an extended essay, but generally there`s nothing difficult here. An extended essay is a thesis which consists of 4,000 words, and it`s similar in some aspects to a synthesis essay. You should write it under the supervision of one of your professors and this thesis is important for your IB Diploma.
You choose a topic which is a research question and if it`s approved by IBO, you can work on it. Usually, students follow two ways: creating a typical research paper or making experiments and trying to solve the problems.
How to get started?
First of all, you should make up your mind concerning the subject you would like to write on. Think of what you like most, make a list of your interests. It`s a good idea to brainstorm for a while and get the areas you have on your mind.
You can select a topic either one of your IB subjects or one which is of your own interests and hobbies. Your topic should be wide, you should have enough space for exploration. If the topic you have chosen doesn`t fit your views or likings, then it`s better to choose another one.
Once you have selected a topic, you should make up questions concerning it.
One more step is to choose an advisor. Here you can select among essay writer vs. essay tutor. It`s obvious that the person should be involved in the subject you have chosen. They should know a lot about the topic, so they can share some information with you and guide you in the right direction. It`s not obligatory to meet your advisor but if you want to get an essay help, then why not?
Start working on your essay as soon as possible, don`t leave it till the last minute. You should have it done before Year II. If you don`t find much time during a studying period, then do this during your summer holidays. You won`t regret doing this in advance.
Making an outline
Once you have made up your mind on the topic, it`s a good idea to create an outline around the research question. You should write a thesis statement in the introductory part of an essay. Usually, the main body is divided into three parts. You should sum up your arguments in the conclusion. An outline is just the plan of your essay. Keep it brief and clear, don`t miss the important points.
Annotated bibliography and title
You are to create a list of recourses you are going to use, it`s necessary to do this in the right way and not to forget citations through your assignment.
A cover page is an essential part of your extended essay, although it`s very easy to complete it. Remember that you should follow the format of IB title page, as this influences your score as well. The title page includes your essay topic name and your own name; mention your school name and IB number as well.
The essay structure should be clear
If you organize your essay in a poor way, you will get a worse grade. Your introduction should contain the research question and clearly show what you are going to focus on. The body is to make the bulk of your essay, divide it in the way your ideas flow.
For instance, if you analyze data or make an experiment, then your body will include obvious parts, like stating the research question, the discussion of a method, data presentation, data analysis etc.
The conclusion should show the results of your experiments, give answers to the research questions, state your main point of view once again and show why this topic is important to be discussed.
Effective tips to succeed
- Your research question should be “focused and sharp”. You are to be more than sure in what you are writing.
- State your thesis clearly, define why your research query is important.
- Use reliable recourses to support your arguments. Use those from the list of bibliography.
- You should deeply understand your subject and what you are writing. Take as much time as needed to learn all the nuances.
- Follow your outline, make sure your essay is coherent and logical. Use only appropriate information. Some extra data can influence your score in a bad way.
- Use active voice and less adverbs.
- Proofreading, proofreading and proofreading! Check all the mistakes, grammar, spelling, format, word usage. Make sure you have all part of your extended essay.
- Show your individuality with an essay, stay analytical and use your critical thinking.
These tips will definitely help you achieve the best results.