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What is the Maths IA?
The Maths Internal Assessment (IA) is an individual mathematical exploration that forms 20% of the final IB Maths grade. It is a 12–20-page written report (excluding bibliography), where the student investigates a mathematical topic of personal interest.
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Time allocation: Students are recommended to spend 10–15 hours on the IA.
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Content includes: Mathematical modeling, data analysis, theoretical proofs, or applications of mathematical concepts.
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Format: Double-spaced, containing explanations, graphs, tables, charts, and appendices.
1. Purpose and Significance of the IA
The IA is more than a writing task—it's a personalized exploration that allows students to:
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Apply mathematical knowledge outside exam constraints.
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Experience real-world applications and personal interests through math.
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Appreciate the beauty, power, and utility of mathematics.
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Develop skills in independent inquiry, problem-solving, and reflection.
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Demonstrate how technology supports mathematical investigation.
Key Takeaway: The IA encourages students to ask their own questions and pursue them using math, shifting from solving textbook problems to creating meaningful explorations.
Everything you need to know about Maths IA
1. Course Objectives & Academic Expectations
The IB Maths IA is assessed using the same rubric for all students — whether they’re taking Maths: Analysis and Approaches (AA) or Maths: Applications and Interpretation (AI) at Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL). However, the course objectives shape the style, approach, and often the type of topic students feel comfortable exploring.
2. Differences Between AA and AI Students in the IA
Key Insight: There are no IA topics exclusive to either AA or AI.
The same standards and assessment criteria apply to both courses.
That said, students naturally gravitate toward topics aligned with their course strengths:
Remember: A high-scoring IA in AA can also score highly in AI and vice versa. Your mathematical depth, clarity, and engagement matter more than the course label.
Examples:
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AA: Exploring convergence of infinite series, proving identities, optimizing functions analytically.
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AI: Modeling population growth with logistic equations, analyzing social media trends with regression, simulating traffic flow.
3. SL vs HL Expectations – A Deeper Dive into Criterion E
Criterion E (Use of Mathematics) is where the expectations differ most clearly between Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) students.
IA Differences Maths AA, AI, HL and SL

Once you’ve chosen a topic, crafting a precise and focused research question (RQ) is critical to the success of your Math IA. The RQ serves as the guiding statement for your exploration, ensuring clarity, direction, and alignment with the IA criteria.
Why Is the Research Question Important?
A well-crafted RQ:
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Establishes the purpose and scope of your IA.
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Ensures a clear mathematical focus.
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Guides the analysis and structure of your investigation.
Steps to Develop a Research Question
1. Understand Your Chosen Topic
Break your topic into its key components. Consider the real-world context and the mathematical concepts you aim to explore.
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Example Topic: Modeling ITC Ltd.'s Stock Prices with Regression Analysis
2. Define the Focus of Your Exploration
Ask yourself:
Developing a Research Question

A strong proposal clearly articulates the topic, scope, and mathematical tools while demonstrating analytical depth. Here's a framework for crafting one:
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Title:
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Rationale and Research Question:
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Scope and Objectives:
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Data and Resources:
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Anticipated Challenges:
Strategies to Include Analytical Depth
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Focus on Mathematical Rigor:
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Ensure Relevance of Analysis:
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Incorporate Multiple Perspectives:
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Reflect on Limitations:
Example of a Rejected Proposal and Its Revision
Writing a Clear and Focused Proposal

A well-structured IA is crucial for presenting your work effectively and meeting IB’s assessment criteria. Below is a draft for structuring the key sections of your IB Math IA, along with tips for incorporating feedback and enhancing clarity and conciseness.
1. Introduction
The introduction should set the stage for your exploration by briefly explaining your topic, its relevance, and the mathematical focus.
Key Components:
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Topic Overview:
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Real-World Connection:
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Research Question:
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Brief Outline:
2. Rationale and Aim
This section explains why you chose the topic and what you aim to achieve.
Key Components:
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Why This Topic?
Structuring Your IB Math IA