Why the Introduction Sets the Tone for Your Whole IA
The introduction is your IA’s first impression.
It’s where examiners decide whether your exploration feels authentic, mathematical, and focused.
A great introduction doesn’t just explain what you’ll do — it shows why it matters and how you’ll use mathematics to explore it.
In short, it blends curiosity, structure, and purpose.
Using RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide, Exemplars, and Topic Planner, you can write an introduction that stands out while aligning perfectly with the IB rubric.
Quick-Start Checklist
Before writing your IA introduction:
- Choose a topic you’re genuinely interested in.
- Review RevisionDojo Exemplars for tone and structure.
- Write a clear rationale for your investigation.
- Identify which mathematical areas your topic involves.
- Draft a concise research question or aim statement.
Step 1: Start With Curiosity
Begin with a short, personal motivation — something that shows why the topic grabbed your attention.
Example:
“As a tennis player, I’ve always been fascinated by how spin affects ball trajectory. This exploration uses parametric equations to model the path of a topspin serve.”
RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide includes phrasing templates to help you express genuine interest without sounding forced.
Step 2: Define the Context Clearly
After the hook, ground your reader in context.
Explain the situation you’re exploring in simple, clear terms.
Example:
“The trajectory of a spinning tennis ball depends on initial velocity, launch angle, and air resistance. This investigation explores these factors through mathematical modeling.”
RevisionDojo’s Context Builder Tool helps you write this section smoothly — striking a balance between storytelling and formality.
Step 3: Present a Focused Aim or Research Question
Your aim or question tells the examiner what mathematical journey you’ll take.
It should be precise, measurable, and relevant.
Example:
“This investigation aims to determine how the angle of projection affects the horizontal distance of a tennis serve when modeled as a projectile with air resistance.”
Avoid vague phrasing like “I want to explore math in sports.” Instead, connect your curiosity directly to a mathematical objective.
Step 4: Identify the Mathematics Involved
Make it clear which areas of mathematics you’ll use.
This shows depth and ensures your topic fits the IB criteria.
Example:
“The exploration will use trigonometric modeling, calculus, and parametric equations to analyze motion under constant acceleration.”
RevisionDojo’s Math Relevance Checker can suggest the exact syllabus areas your topic connects to — ensuring proper scope and rigor.
Step 5: Justify the Relevance of the Topic
Explain why your chosen topic is worth exploring mathematically.
This isn’t just about personal interest — it’s about showing insight.
Example:
“Modeling physical motion mathematically demonstrates how functions and derivatives describe real-world behavior, linking classroom mathematics to sports performance.”
This sentence shows personal engagement and mathematical awareness — two critical rubric categories.
Step 6: Mention the Tools and Methods You’ll Use
Briefly note what methods or technology you’ll apply:
- Graphing software
- Regression analysis
- Calculus modeling
RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide includes examples of how to mention technology appropriately without sounding overly technical.
Step 7: Outline the Structure of Your IA
Give the reader a preview of what’s to come — a “roadmap.”
Example:
“The investigation begins by defining the equations of motion, followed by deriving a model for trajectory, testing predictions against real data, and discussing accuracy.”
This gives your IA a professional, organized tone from the start.
Step 8: Keep It Concise
Your introduction should be about 200–300 words — enough to capture curiosity, purpose, and structure, but not overwhelm the reader.
RevisionDojo’s Word Counter ensures your introduction stays clear and within IB’s recommended range.
Step 9: Avoid Common Mistakes
Common pitfalls include:
- Being too broad (“I’ll explore geometry in architecture”).
- Writing without clear math focus.
- Forgetting to mention how the exploration is personal.
RevisionDojo’s Exemplar Analyzer highlights strong and weak introductions so you can model yours effectively.
Step 10: Reflect and Refine
After drafting, read your introduction aloud and ask:
- Does it show curiosity and focus?
- Is the math clear but not overwhelming?
- Would an examiner understand exactly what I’ll explore?
Use RevisionDojo’s Reflection Journal to refine your introduction until it feels sharp and confident.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long should my Math IA introduction be?
About 200–300 words — enough to introduce your aim and methods clearly.
2. Should I include formulas in my introduction?
No — save detailed math for the body. The introduction should be readable and conceptual.
3. How can I make my introduction sound personal but professional?
Tie your interest to mathematical reasoning. RevisionDojo’s phrasing templates help you strike that perfect tone.
Final Thoughts
Your IA introduction sets the foundation for everything that follows.
It’s your chance to show curiosity, direction, and confidence in your mathematical thinking.
With RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide, Exemplars, and Topic Planner, you can write an introduction that captures attention, aligns with the rubric, and sets your exploration up for top marks.
Call to Action
Start your IA strong.
Use RevisionDojo’s IA/EE Guide and Exemplars to craft an engaging, precise, and examiner-ready introduction for your IB Math exploration.
