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IB Math IA Checklist: What to Do Before Submission

  • Writer: Pradeep Tangniya
    Pradeep Tangniya
  • Sep 23
  • 5 min read

If you're in the final stages of writing your IB Math Internal Assessment (IA), you’re probably juggling formulas, formatting, and final edits all at once. But before you hit that submit button, there are some crucial steps to take to ensure your Math IA meets all the IB criteria — and scores the maximum possible marks.

In this guide, we present the ultimate Math IA checklist — covering everything from structure and clarity to citation and evaluation. Whether you’re taking Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (AI) or Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (AA), this blog will help you polish your work to perfection.


Need extra help? IB Learning Star offers one-on-one online tuition and IA guidance to make sure your final draft is your best yet.

MATH IA writing on laptop
Get complete guidance for your Math IA at IB Learning Star.

✅ The Ultimate Math IA Submission Checklist


1. Is Your Topic Clearly Defined and Focused?

  • Have you formulated a focused research question or aim?

  • Is your topic narrow enough to explore in depth within the word limit?

  • Does it involve mathematics at the right level for your course (SL or HL)?

A clear and well-structured aim sets the tone for your entire IA. Avoid vague topics or ones that are too broad to analyze mathematically.


2. Is Your Math Relevant and Accurate?

  • Have you used appropriate mathematical concepts and techniques?

  • Are your calculations correct and clearly shown?

  • Have you explained the math — not just shown it?

Many students lose marks by simply showing steps without explaining why they are using a certain method. Your goal is to demonstrate understanding, not just correctness.


3. Are You Using Real Data or Real-Life Context?

  • Have you included a real-world application, data set, or personal interest?

  • Is your data reliable and cited correctly?

  • Does the context make the math more meaningful?

The IB values real-life connections in your IA. Using primary data or a topic that reflects your personal interests can boost both your engagement and your grade.


4. Is Your Structure Logical and Easy to Follow?

Ensure your IA follows a logical format:

  • Introduction: Define your aim, context, and key terms.

  • Methodology: Explain your approach and tools used.

  • Mathematical Process: Show and explain your math clearly.

  • Interpretation: Analyze your results.

  • Conclusion: Reflect on your findings and limitations.

Add subheadings to guide the reader through your IA. Clear structure improves readability and scoring.


5. Have You Reflected and Evaluated?

Reflection is a major part of the marking rubric:

  • Have you discussed the limitations of your approach?

  • Have you evaluated the accuracy and validity of your results?

  • Did you reflect on what your results mean in the real world?

Without proper reflection, your IA could miss the highest achievement bands, even if your math is excellent.


6. Is Your Language Academic and Concise?

  • Have you used formal, academic tone throughout?

  • Did you avoid excessive technical jargon or informal expressions?

  • Is your writing clear, concise, and to the point?

Proofreading is essential. You can even use tools like Grammarly or Hemingway to polish grammar and readability.


7. Have You Cited All Your Sources?

  • Did you include a bibliography in MLA, APA, or another consistent format?

  • Are all sources (data sets, articles, tools) acknowledged in-text?

  • Have you avoided plagiarism?

Academic honesty is non-negotiable in IB. Don’t risk your diploma — cite everything properly.


8. Word Count and Formatting

  • Is your IA within the word limit (up to 2,000 words)?

  • Have you included page numbers and consistent font style/size?

  • Are all diagrams, tables, and charts labeled and referenced?

Remember, appendices and graphs do not count toward your word limit, but any explanation or analysis does.


🧠 Bonus Tips Before Final Submission


  • Double-check that every section links back to your research question.

  • Ensure your graphs and diagrams are not only accurate but also clearly explained.

  • Ask a peer, teacher, or tutor for feedback — fresh eyes catch missed errors.

  • Reread your IA one final time after a short break — clarity improves with distance.

  • Save your document in multiple formats and locations.


The final check is often what separates a good IA from a great one.


📌 IB Math IA Topics You Can Explore

If you’re still unsure about your IA direction, here’s a list of 25 varied and creative topic ideas to get you inspired. These ideas are suitable for both Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (AI) and Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (AA) students. Choose one that connects with your interests and allows for authentic mathematical investigation:


  1. Modeling the Spread of a VirusUsing exponential or logistic functions to simulate the spread of COVID-19 or another contagious disease.

  2. Does Height Affect Free-Throw Accuracy in Basketball?Statistical analysis using correlation coefficients and hypothesis testing.

  3. Mathematical Patterns in Origami FoldingExploring geometric transformations and optimization.

  4. Analyzing the Growth Rate of YouTube ChannelsLogarithmic modeling and regression on subscriber data.

  5. Comparing Fuel Efficiency in Electric vs Petrol CarsUsing calculus and area under curves to compare performance data.

  6. Fibonacci Sequence in Architecture and NatureIdentifying golden ratios and spiral structures in real-world images.

  7. Game Strategy in Monopoly: Which Properties Give the Best ROI?Using expected value and probability theory.

  8. Predicting the Outcome of Football Matches Using Elo RatingsApplying probability distributions and ranking systems.

  9. Comparative Study of BMI Across Different Age GroupsData analysis using mean, median, standard deviation, and box plots.

  10. Optimization of Packaging: Cylindrical vs Rectangular PrismsUsing surface area and volume relationships for maximum efficiency.

  11. Stock Market Prediction Using Moving AveragesExploring financial modeling and trend analysis.

  12. Mathematics in Music TheoryInvestigating waveforms and harmonic frequency patterns using trigonometry.

  13. Calculating the Most Efficient Path for a Delivery Route (Traveling Salesman Problem)Using graph theory and combinatorics.

  14. Exploring the Relationship Between Sleep Hours and Academic PerformanceCorrelation and regression using self-collected data.

  15. Is the Perfect Basketball Shot a Parabola?Modeling projectile motion with quadratic functions.

  16. Can Math Predict the Winner of a Reality Show?Using probability trees and historical voting data.

  17. Investigating Gambling Odds in Casino GamesAnalyzing expected value and probability in blackjack or roulette.

  18. Cryptography: How Secure Are Simple Ciphers?An introduction to modular arithmetic and code-breaking.

  19. How Math Models Roller Coaster DesignsApplying sinusoidal and polynomial functions.

  20. The Mathematics of Earthquake MagnitudesUsing logarithmic scales and data from seismology records.

  21. Does the Golden Ratio Exist in Famous Paintings or Logos?Measurement and proportionality investigation.

  22. Comparing Income Inequality Using Gini CoefficientApplying area-under-curve and integration techniques.

  23. Modeling Water Flow Through PipesUsing differential equations to explore pressure and velocity.

  24. Analysis of Student Travel Time to School Based on Mode of TransportStatistical analysis and frequency distribution.

  25. Is There a Correlation Between Social Media Screen Time and Mental Health?Real-world data analysis, regression, and critical interpretation.


💡 How IB Learning Star Can Help You Submit a Winning IA


At IB Learning Star, we specialize in online tutoring for IB Math IA, helping students craft strong, original, and high-scoring internal assessments.


Our expert tutors guide you through:


  • Topic brainstorming and refinement

  • Structuring and planning your IA

  • Clarifying complex math processes

  • Final proofreading and citation review

  • Personalized feedback based on official rubrics


With one-on-one online tuition, you'll receive tailored support that boosts both your confidence and performance.

🎯 Ready to submit a standout Math IA? Let’s make it happen.

📞 Book your free trial session today with IB Learning Star and get expert Math IA guidance from tutors who know what works.



Submitting your Math IA isn’t just about completing a requirement — it’s an opportunity to demonstrate real mathematical thinking. With the right support and attention to detail, you can turn your IA into one of the strongest parts of your IB score.


Let IB Learning Star’s online IA tutoring give you the final push you need to shine.

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