Why Graph Presentation Matters More Than You Think
Graphs aren’t just visuals — they’re evidence.
In the IB Math IA, your graphs show examiners that you understand how mathematics translates into meaning. Poorly labeled or cluttered graphs can weaken even the best analysis, while clear, professional visuals make your IA easier to follow and more persuasive.
With RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide, Graph Tools, and Visual Standards Checklist, you’ll learn how to make every graph in your IA clear, accurate, and examiner-ready.
Quick-Start Checklist
Before inserting any graph:
- Label both axes with names and units.
- Include a concise, descriptive title.
- Use consistent scales and fonts.
- Annotate key points, intersections, or anomalies.
- Maintain a clean, professional layout.
Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Graph
Your graph type should reflect the mathematical relationship you’re exploring.
Examples:
- Scatter plot: Best for correlations and regression.
- Line graph: Ideal for continuous data or functions.
- Histogram: Used for frequency distributions.
- Parametric plot: Great for modeling movement or motion paths.
RevisionDojo’s Graph Type Selector helps you match your dataset with the ideal visualization method.
Step 2: Label Axes Clearly and Consistently
Every graph must include:
- Variable names (e.g., “Time,” “Height,” “Velocity”)
- Units in parentheses (e.g., “Time (s)”)
- Scales that accurately represent your data range
Example:
x-axis: Time (s)
y-axis: Temperature (°C)
RevisionDojo’s Axis Label Generator creates clean, standardized axis labels in IB-approved formats.
Step 3: Add Descriptive Titles
Titles should tell the examiner exactly what the graph shows — not just the variables.
Weak: “Graph 1”
Strong: “Graph 1: Temperature Decay of Water Over Time”
RevisionDojo’s Title Formatter helps you generate professional, descriptive graph titles automatically.
Step 4: Maintain Consistent Formatting
All graphs in your IA should look cohesive.
Use consistent:
- Colors and fonts
- Line thicknesses
- Marker shapes and sizes
RevisionDojo’s Visual Style Guide standardizes all visual elements for a uniform professional look.
Step 5: Include Captions and Figure Numbers
Every graph must have a numbered caption directly beneath it:
Example:
Figure 2. Exponential model of temperature decay with best-fit line (R² = 0.982).
RevisionDojo’s Caption Generator formats figure labels perfectly for IB submission standards.
Step 6: Annotate Key Features
Examiners love graphs that show awareness — highlight points of interest such as maxima, intersections, or anomalies.
Example:
“The turning point at (3.2, 45.6) represents the maximum height of the projectile.”
RevisionDojo’s Annotation Tool lets you mark and label critical coordinates directly on graphs with precision.
Step 7: Use Appropriate Scales and Gridlines
Incorrect or inconsistent scales can distort interpretation.
Keep increments uniform and use gridlines only if they improve readability.
RevisionDojo’s Scale Checker ensures proportional scaling for accurate mathematical interpretation.
Step 8: Avoid Overcrowding
Don’t overload graphs with multiple datasets unless necessary.
If you compare several models, use color contrast and separate legends.
Example:
“The red curve shows the theoretical model; blue dots represent experimental data.”
RevisionDojo’s Clarity Enhancer helps declutter visuals for examiner-friendly simplicity.
Step 9: Reference Each Graph in the Text
Always mention graphs in your discussion so they have purpose.
Example:
“As shown in Figure 3, the curve follows an exponential pattern consistent with the model T(t) = T₀e⁻ᵏᵗ.”
RevisionDojo’s Reference Template provides sentence starters for referring to visuals professionally.
Step 10: Review Graphs With the IB Visual Standards Checklist
Before submission, check that every graph meets IB requirements:
- Clearly labeled axes and units
- Descriptive title and caption
- Consistent formatting
- Readable legends and fonts
- Direct link to written analysis
RevisionDojo’s Visual Standards Checklist ensures every graph meets examiner expectations perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use color graphs in my IA?
Yes, color graphs are allowed — just make sure they’re readable when printed in black and white.
2. Do graphs count toward the word limit?
No, but captions and discussion of graphs do count.
3. Should I include raw data graphs?
Include at least one raw data visualization if your IA involves data analysis; it shows the origin of your modeling process.
Final Thoughts
Graphs are where your mathematics becomes visible.
Clear, well-formatted visuals not only improve communication but also demonstrate professionalism, precision, and understanding — everything examiners look for.
With RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide, Graph Tools, and Visual Standards Checklist, you’ll create visuals that clarify your math and strengthen every part of your IA.
Call to Action
Make your IA visuals examiner-ready.
Use RevisionDojo’s Graph Tools and IA/EE Guide to create professional, clearly labeled, and high-impact graphs that elevate your analysis.
