One of the biggest reasons IB students struggle with Internal Assessments is that they approach them like normal essays. While IAs may look similar on the surface, they are assessed very differently. Treating an IA like a traditional essay is one of the fastest ways to lose marks.
Normal essays are usually judged holistically. Teachers look for coherent arguments, good writing, and accurate knowledge. IB IAs, however, are assessed analytically against strict criteria. Examiners are not asking, “Is this a good essay?” They are asking, “Can I clearly see evidence for each assessment criterion?”
Another key difference is purpose. Essays are often about demonstrating understanding of content. IAs are about demonstrating process. Examiners want to see how you formulate a question, select evidence, apply methods, analyse results, and evaluate limitations. Content knowledge matters, but only when it supports those skills.
Structure also works differently. In a normal essay, elegant flow and persuasive language are often rewarded. In an IA, clarity and signposting matter far more than style. Examiners read quickly and systematically. If ideas are implicit rather than explicit, they may not be credited—even if the understanding is there.
Analysis in IAs is also more technical. In essays, analysis can be interpretive or discursive. In IAs, analysis must directly address the research question using evidence. Explaining why results matter, how they support conclusions, and what their limitations are is essential. Description alone earns very little credit.
Another major difference is independence. Essays are usually guided closely, with models, outlines, and detailed feedback. IAs require far more independent decision-making. Choosing what to include, what to exclude, and how to evaluate your own work is part of what is being assessed. This independence is why many students find IAs uncomfortable.
Students also underestimate how unforgiving IA marking can be. In essays, strong writing can sometimes compensate for weak structure. In IAs, missing or unclear elements can cap the mark band regardless of effort or quality elsewhere. This makes strategic planning far more important than in normal essays.
Finally, IAs reward restraint. Essays often encourage breadth and exploration. IAs reward focus, precision, and control. Doing less—but doing it well—is almost always more effective.
The RevisionDojo Coursework Guide explains these differences clearly and shows students how to shift from “essay thinking” to “examiner thinking.” When students understand what makes IAs unique, their work becomes more targeted—and their marks improve.
👉 https://www.revisiondojo.com/coursework-guide
