The methodology section is the backbone of your IB Math Internal Assessment (IA). It explains how you carried out your mathematical investigation—what models you used, why you chose them, and how your process connects to your research question. Many students lose marks here because they jump from idea to calculation without guiding the reader through their reasoning.
This guide shows you how to build a clear, professional methodology using RevisionDojo’s IA Method Builder, helping your analysis flow naturally and impress examiners with precision and structure.
Quick Start Checklist
Before writing your methodology, make sure you have:
- A focused research question or aim.
- A plan of what mathematical tools and techniques you’ll use.
- All relevant data collected or defined.
- Clear justification for each method chosen.
- Used the IA Method Builder to map your steps logically.
Your goal is to help the examiner understand exactly what you did—and why it made sense mathematically.
Why the Methodology Section Matters
Examiners read your methodology to judge whether your math is both appropriate and well-explained. It contributes heavily to Criterion E (Use of Mathematics) and Criterion B (Communication).
A strong methodology demonstrates that you:
- Know what mathematical tools suit your problem.
- Can explain how you applied them correctly.
- Understand the assumptions and limitations of your process.
- Communicate clearly and logically from setup to execution.
It turns your IA from a list of equations into a guided investigation.
The Structure of a Clear Methodology
Use this simple structure to make your methodology precise and readable.
1. Introduce the Goal
Start with one paragraph summarizing what you aim to achieve.
Example:
“The goal of this investigation is to model the cooling rate of coffee over time using Newton’s Law of Cooling. The methodology involves collecting temperature data, defining a decay model, and testing fit accuracy using regression.”
2. Describe Data Collection or Variables
Explain how you obtained or defined your variables.
- Specify what each symbol represents.
- Include measurement details (units, intervals, instruments).
- Mention assumptions (e.g., constant environment, ideal conditions).
Clarity here prevents confusion later.
3. Explain the Chosen Methods
List and justify the mathematical techniques you’ll use—algebra, calculus, regression, trigonometry, etc.
Example:
“An exponential model was selected because the observed rate of cooling decreased proportionally to temperature difference, aligning with exponential decay characteristics.”
4. Show Step-by-Step Process
Walk the reader through your calculations or model development.
- Present formulas in order.
- Label each equation (1), (2), etc.
- Use transitional phrases like “Substituting into Equation (2) gives…”
The IA Method Builder recommends limiting each step to one clear idea.
5. Explain How You Will Verify or Evaluate
Briefly outline how you’ll test your results—through comparison, validation, or error analysis.
Example:
“The accuracy of the model will be tested by comparing predicted and actual values and calculating the mean percentage error.”
Using the IA Method Builder
RevisionDojo’s IA Method Builder helps students design their methodology in a logical sequence. It provides:
- Planning prompts to decide which math tools fit your question.
- Flow templates that connect data, equations, and reasoning.
- Consistency checks for notation and logical order.
- Reflection cues to explain why each step was necessary.
By following the builder, you ensure that your methods read clearly and professionally.
Writing Style Tips for Methodology Sections
- Use present or past tense consistently: “This model was applied…” or “The following equations describe…”
- Keep sentences short: Focus on clarity, not complexity.
- Avoid passive overload: Instead of “It was found that,” write “The data showed that.”
- Integrate text and math: Explain what each formula means in words immediately after writing it.
- Include reasoning words: because, therefore, thus, as a result.
The clearer your explanations, the stronger your communication score.
Common Methodology Mistakes
- Listing formulas without context: Always explain why you’re using them.
- Skipping definitions: Every variable, constant, and assumption must be defined.
- Ignoring limitations: Mention any simplifying assumptions early.
- Overcomplicating the math: Choose tools appropriate to your level, not beyond it.
- No connection to the research question: Every step should support your main aim.
Avoiding these mistakes ensures examiners see both competence and understanding.
Example of a Strong Methodology Paragraph
Below is a concise model for clear methodology writing:
“To analyze how the height of a bouncing ball decreases after each bounce, the ratio of successive bounce heights was recorded using motion-tracking software. The geometric sequence model hₙ = h₀rⁿ was selected, where r represents the rebound ratio. The constant r was determined through regression using measured values. Finally, predictions were verified by comparing modeled and experimental results, calculating the percentage error for each trial.”
This short section integrates purpose, method, and reasoning seamlessly.
Reflection: The Methodology as a Story
Think of your methodology as the story of your math. It shows the path from idea to model, proving that your exploration is systematic and grounded in logic. When examiners can follow your thinking easily, they reward you for communication, structure, and insight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long should the methodology section be?
Usually one to two pages, depending on topic complexity. Focus on clarity, not length.
2. Should I include every formula I use?
Include only those central to your model or reasoning—omit repetitive calculations.
3. Can I use diagrams or flowcharts?
Yes, if they clarify steps. Label them properly and reference them in text.
4. Do I need to include raw data here?
Summarize data briefly; put large tables in an appendix.
5. How can I check if my methodology is clear?
Ask a classmate to read it. If they can follow the logic without asking questions, it’s clear enough.
Conclusion
A strong methodology is logical, focused, and transparent. It’s where you prove that your math isn’t random—it’s deliberate and justified.
Using RevisionDojo’s IA Method Builder, you can design a clear step-by-step process that connects every equation, method, and decision back to your goal, ensuring your IA reads like a professional mathematical investigation.
RevisionDojo Call to Action:
Structure your IB Math IA with precision and confidence. Use RevisionDojo’s IA Method Builder to write a clear, logical methodology that communicates your reasoning perfectly.
