The Extended Essay guide

The Extended Essay is the biggest single piece of independent research and writing in the IB Diploma Programme: an academic essay of up to 4,000 words on a topic you choose with your supervisor. Work through it in four sprints, from research question to submission, using the guides below.

1. An introduction to the EE process for studentsFive essentials of working through the Extended Essay.M28Student session 11 Nov 202627 days to goInternational School of Geneva - Campus des Nations
2. An introduction to the EE process for parentsFive essentials of supporting your child through it.
3. 1Sprint 1to a great research questionDevelop a focused, original research question that sets the foundation for your entire essay.Start this sprint
4. Adding everything to ManageBacM27Due 1 May 2026Past dueInternational School of Geneva - Campus des Nations
5. 2Sprint 2to a strong opening thirdDraft the opening third of your essay, so your supervisor can check the approach before the summer.M27Opening third due 18 May 2026Past dueInternational School of Geneva - Campus des NationsStart this sprint
6. 3Sprint 3to a complete draftWrite a complete draft that brings your research and analysis together.M27Draft due 7 Sept 2026Past dueInternational School of Geneva - Campus des NationsStart this sprint
7. Referencing
8. 4Sprint 4to an excellent submissionPolish, refine and submit an excellent extended essay.M27Final deadline 3 Nov 202619 days to goInternational School of Geneva - Campus des NationsStart this sprint
9. Reflections for the RPFGuidance for writing your reflective statement for the Reflection and Progress Form.

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