Introduction: The Truth Behind Every Argument
The IB Extended Essay (EE) is more than a research project — it’s a declaration of academic integrity. It asks students to investigate a topic independently, develop an argument, and present findings truthfully and responsibly.
The IB Extended Essay Guide (IBO, 2023) emphasizes that “academic honesty is the foundation of all extended research.” This means that your ideas, data, and writing must be your own, with every influence and source fully acknowledged.
This guide explores how IB students can uphold integrity in every stage of the Extended Essay — from topic selection to reflection.
Quick Start Checklist: Integrity in the Extended Essay
- Choose an original and independently researched topic.
- Use only credible, verifiable sources.
- Cite every idea, quote, and dataset accurately.
- Avoid plagiarism and excessive paraphrasing.
- Reflect honestly on your process and challenges.
- Follow IB formatting and honesty guidelines.
Integrity turns the EE from an assignment into a genuine piece of scholarship.
Understanding Integrity in the Extended Essay
Integrity in the EE combines academic honesty, independent analysis, and ethical research practice.
It involves:
- Authentic inquiry: Asking your own questions and seeking real answers.
- Transparent sourcing: Citing all research and acknowledging intellectual debts.
- Responsible reflection: Recognizing limitations, challenges, and bias.
As historian Edward Hallett Carr noted, “Facts are sacred, but interpretation is free.” Integrity ensures your interpretation remains honest.
Choosing an Original and Ethical Topic
The foundation of EE integrity begins with topic selection.
To ensure originality:
- Choose a subject you’re genuinely curious about.
- Avoid topics that replicate existing EE examples.
- Ensure the question is focused, researchable, and academically appropriate.
- Consider ethical implications — especially for human subjects or environmental studies.
- Discuss feasibility and integrity with your supervisor before beginning.
An ethical topic sets the tone for a responsible investigation.
Ethical Research and Data Collection
Research must follow both intellectual and moral responsibility.
- Use only verified academic sources (journals, databases, official publications).
- Avoid using uncredited or biased material.
- If conducting interviews or surveys, obtain informed consent.
- Protect personal data and maintain participant anonymity.
- Keep accurate, dated research notes and references.
Integrity means doing research the right way — not just the easy way.
Avoiding Plagiarism and Unoriginal Writing
Plagiarism can occur unintentionally, but the responsibility remains yours.
Avoid it by:
- Paraphrasing carefully and crediting the original author.
- Quoting directly when using another’s exact words.
- Not reusing content from your IA or other coursework.
- Avoiding AI-generated writing or summaries.
- Maintaining a working bibliography from day one.
Your argument should grow from your research — not someone else’s essay.
Citing Sources and Using References Properly
Accurate citation is essential to academic credibility.
Include:
- Author, title, date, and publication details.
- In-text citations for all data, quotations, and paraphrased ideas.
- A complete works cited or bibliography section.
- Consistent formatting (MLA, APA, or Chicago — as approved by IB).
Example:
Smith, John. Global Water Scarcity and Urban Growth. Cambridge University Press, 2022.
Proper citation shows respect — for authors, for readers, and for truth.
Using Technology and AI Responsibly
Digital tools support organization — not substitution.
- Use reference managers (Zotero, Mendeley) for citation.
- Do not use AI to write, summarize, or analyze sources.
- Verify all facts and quotations manually.
- Disclose any AI use for planning or proofreading.
Technology should enhance your precision — not replace your integrity.
Authentic Analysis and Argumentation
Integrity means that your analysis is your own — grounded in evidence, not mimicry.
To stay authentic:
- Use data to support, not dictate, your argument.
- Analyze critically — don’t summarize.
- Evaluate opposing viewpoints fairly.
- Acknowledge uncertainty where evidence is limited.
- Avoid overclaiming or manipulating conclusions.
Honest analysis shows maturity — that you value truth more than persuasion.
Honest Reflection in the RPPF (Reflections on Planning and Progress Form)
Your reflection form demonstrates both process and integrity.
Reflect with honesty by:
- Describing what inspired your topic truthfully.
- Discussing setbacks or changes openly.
- Explaining how feedback shaped your thinking.
- Avoiding exaggeration or fabricated progress.
IB examiners reward sincerity — they can see when reflection is genuine.
Avoiding Collusion and Over-Assistance
The EE must be your independent work, even with supervision.
- Supervisors may guide but not edit or rewrite.
- Peer review must be limited to general feedback.
- Avoid sharing drafts or essays with others.
- Keep all notes, outlines, and drafts as proof of originality.
Integrity protects your work from doubt — and your voice from dilution.
Ethics in Academic Writing and Presentation
Writing with integrity also means presenting your argument transparently.
- Avoid emotional or biased language.
- Distinguish clearly between opinion and analysis.
- Represent evidence accurately, even if it contradicts your hypothesis.
- Use inclusive, respectful language throughout.
Integrity gives your writing both precision and professionalism.
How RevisionDojo Supports EE Integrity
RevisionDojo helps IB students achieve honest and high-quality Extended Essays through:
- Guides on ethical research and data citation.
- Tutorials for critical analysis and reflective writing.
- Lessons on structure, argument, and academic voice.
- Examples of high-scoring, integrity-driven EEs.
With RevisionDojo, students build not just essays — but intellectual credibility.
Conclusion: Integrity Is the Soul of Scholarship
The Extended Essay is more than an assessment — it’s your first step into academic research.
Integrity gives that step meaning. It ensures that your findings are reliable, your reasoning ethical, and your reflection sincere.
In the IB, integrity doesn’t just protect your grade — it defines your identity as a thinker.
Research honestly. Write truthfully. Learn responsibly.
RevisionDojo Call to Action
Research ethically. Argue honestly.
Join RevisionDojo to master academic writing, responsible research, and reflective scholarship — the foundation of integrity in the IB Extended Essay.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What counts as misconduct in the Extended Essay?
Plagiarism, AI-generated text, or uncredited data use violate IB integrity policies and can result in disqualification.
2. How can I prove my essay is original?
Keep detailed research notes, drafts, and reflections showing your independent development.
3. Can I get help from my supervisor?
Yes — but guidance must be advisory. All ideas, analysis, and writing must be your own.
4. How should I cite sources?
Use a consistent citation style approved by IB, including full references for all works used.
5. How does RevisionDojo promote EE integrity?
RevisionDojo teaches ethical research design, transparent sourcing, and critical argumentation — empowering IB students to write with honesty and confidence.
