psychology extended essay conclusion

IB Psychology EE examples

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The Complete IB Extended Essay Guide: Examples, Topics, and Ideas

International Baccalaureate (IB)

IB students around the globe fear writing the Extended Essay, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress! In this article, I'll get you excited about writing your Extended Essay and provide you with the resources you need to get an A on it.

If you're reading this article, I'm going to assume you're an IB student getting ready to write your Extended Essay. If you're looking at this as a potential future IB student, I recommend reading our introductory IB articles first, including our guide to what the IB program is and our full coverage of the IB curriculum .

IB Extended Essay: Why Should You Trust My Advice?

I myself am a recipient of an IB Diploma, and I happened to receive an A on my IB Extended Essay. Don't believe me? The proof is in the IBO pudding:

If you're confused by what this report means, EE is short for Extended Essay , and English A1 is the subject that my Extended Essay topic coordinated with. In layman's terms, my IB Diploma was graded in May 2010, I wrote my Extended Essay in the English A1 category, and I received an A grade on it.

What Is the Extended Essay in the IB Diploma Programme?

The IB Extended Essay, or EE , is a mini-thesis you write under the supervision of an IB advisor (an IB teacher at your school), which counts toward your IB Diploma (learn more about the major IB Diploma requirements in our guide) . I will explain exactly how the EE affects your Diploma later in this article.

For the Extended Essay, you will choose a research question as a topic, conduct the research independently, then write an essay on your findings . The essay itself is a long one—although there's a cap of 4,000 words, most successful essays get very close to this limit.

Keep in mind that the IB requires this essay to be a "formal piece of academic writing," meaning you'll have to do outside research and cite additional sources.

The IB Extended Essay must include the following:

• A title page
• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography

Additionally, your research topic must fall into one of the six approved DP categories , or IB subject groups, which are as follows:

• Group 1: Studies in Language and Literature
• Group 2: Language Acquisition
• Group 3: Individuals and Societies
• Group 4: Sciences
• Group 5: Mathematics
• Group 6: The Arts

Once you figure out your category and have identified a potential research topic, it's time to pick your advisor, who is normally an IB teacher at your school (though you can also find one online ). This person will help direct your research, and they'll conduct the reflection sessions you'll have to do as part of your Extended Essay.

As of 2018, the IB requires a "reflection process" as part of your EE supervision process. To fulfill this requirement, you have to meet at least three times with your supervisor in what the IB calls "reflection sessions." These meetings are not only mandatory but are also part of the formal assessment of the EE and your research methods.

According to the IB, the purpose of these meetings is to "provide an opportunity for students to reflect on their engagement with the research process." Basically, these meetings give your supervisor the opportunity to offer feedback, push you to think differently, and encourage you to evaluate your research process.

The final reflection session is called the viva voce, and it's a short 10- to 15-minute interview between you and your advisor. This happens at the very end of the EE process, and it's designed to help your advisor write their report, which factors into your EE grade.

Here are the topics covered in your viva voce :

• A check on plagiarism and malpractice
• Your reflection on your project's successes and difficulties
• Your reflection on what you've learned during the EE process

Your completed Extended Essay, along with your supervisor's report, will then be sent to the IB to be graded. We'll cover the assessment criteria in just a moment.

We'll help you learn how to have those "lightbulb" moments...even on test day!  

What Should You Write About in Your IB Extended Essay?

You can technically write about anything, so long as it falls within one of the approved categories listed above.

It's best to choose a topic that matches one of the IB courses , (such as Theatre, Film, Spanish, French, Math, Biology, etc.), which shouldn't be difficult because there are so many class subjects.

Here is a range of sample topics with the attached extended essay:

• Biology: The Effect of Age and Gender on the Photoreceptor Cells in the Human Retina
• Chemistry: How Does Reflux Time Affect the Yield and Purity of Ethyl Aminobenzoate (Benzocaine), and How Effective is Recrystallisation as a Purification Technique for This Compound?
• English: An Exploration of Jane Austen's Use of the Outdoors in Emma
• Geography: The Effect of Location on the Educational Attainment of Indigenous Secondary Students in Queensland, Australia
• Math: Alhazen's Billiard Problem
• Visual Arts: Can Luc Tuymans Be Classified as a Political Painter?

You can see from how varied the topics are that you have a lot of freedom when it comes to picking a topic . So how do you pick when the options are limitless?

How to Write a Stellar IB Extended Essay: 6 Essential Tips

Below are six key tips to keep in mind as you work on your Extended Essay for the IB DP. Follow these and you're sure to get an A!

#1: Write About Something You Enjoy

You can't expect to write a compelling essay if you're not a fan of the topic on which you're writing. For example, I just love British theatre and ended up writing my Extended Essay on a revolution in post-WWII British theatre. (Yes, I'm definitely a #TheatreNerd.)

I really encourage anyone who pursues an IB Diploma to take the Extended Essay seriously. I was fortunate enough to receive a full-tuition merit scholarship to USC's School of Dramatic Arts program. In my interview for the scholarship, I spoke passionately about my Extended Essay; thus, I genuinely think my Extended Essay helped me get my scholarship.

But how do you find a topic you're passionate about? Start by thinking about which classes you enjoy the most and why . Do you like math classes because you like to solve problems? Or do you enjoy English because you like to analyze literary texts?

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your Extended Essay topic. You're not more likely to get high marks because you're writing about science, just like you're not doomed to failure because you've chosen to tackle the social sciences. The quality of what you produce—not the field you choose to research within—will determine your grade.

Once you've figured out your category, you should brainstorm more specific topics by putting pen to paper . What was your favorite chapter you learned in that class? Was it astrophysics or mechanics? What did you like about that specific chapter? Is there something you want to learn more about? I recommend spending a few hours on this type of brainstorming.

One last note: if you're truly stumped on what to research, pick a topic that will help you in your future major or career . That way you can use your Extended Essay as a talking point in your college essays (and it will prepare you for your studies to come too!).

#2: Select a Topic That Is Neither Too Broad nor Too Narrow

There's a fine line between broad and narrow. You need to write about something specific, but not so specific that you can't write 4,000 words on it.

You can't write about WWII because that would be a book's worth of material. You also don't want to write about what type of soup prisoners of war received behind enemy lines, because you probably won’t be able to come up with 4,000 words of material about it. However, you could possibly write about how the conditions in German POW camps—and the rations provided—were directly affected by the Nazis' successes and failures on the front, including the use of captured factories and prison labor in Eastern Europe to increase production. WWII military history might be a little overdone, but you get my point.

If you're really stuck trying to pinpoint a not-too-broad-or-too-narrow topic, I suggest trying to brainstorm a topic that uses a comparison. Once you begin looking through the list of sample essays below, you'll notice that many use comparisons to formulate their main arguments.

I also used a comparison in my EE, contrasting Harold Pinter's Party Time with John Osborne's Look Back in Anger in order to show a transition in British theatre. Topics with comparisons of two to three plays, books, and so on tend to be the sweet spot. You can analyze each item and then compare them with one another after doing some in-depth analysis of each individually. The ways these items compare and contrast will end up forming the thesis of your essay!

When choosing a comparative topic, the key is that the comparison should be significant. I compared two plays to illustrate the transition in British theatre, but you could compare the ways different regional dialects affect people's job prospects or how different temperatures may or may not affect the mating patterns of lightning bugs. The point here is that comparisons not only help you limit your topic, but they also help you build your argument.

Comparisons are not the only way to get a grade-A EE, though. If after brainstorming, you pick a non-comparison-based topic and are still unsure whether your topic is too broad or narrow, spend about 30 minutes doing some basic research and see how much material is out there.

If there are more than 1,000 books, articles, or documentaries out there on that exact topic, it may be too broad. But if there are only two books that have any connection to your topic, it may be too narrow. If you're still unsure, ask your advisor—it's what they're there for! Speaking of advisors...

Don't get stuck with a narrow topic!

#3: Choose an Advisor Who Is Familiar With Your Topic

If you're not certain of who you would like to be your advisor, create a list of your top three choices. Next, write down the pros and cons of each possibility (I know this sounds tedious, but it really helps!).

For example, Mr. Green is my favorite teacher and we get along really well, but he teaches English. For my EE, I want to conduct an experiment that compares the efficiency of American electric cars with foreign electric cars.

I had Ms. White a year ago. She teaches physics and enjoyed having me in her class. Unlike Mr. Green, Ms. White could help me design my experiment.

Based on my topic and what I need from my advisor, Ms. White would be a better fit for me than would Mr. Green (even though I like him a lot).

The moral of my story is this: do not just ask your favorite teacher to be your advisor . They might be a hindrance to you if they teach another subject. For example, I would not recommend asking your biology teacher to guide you in writing an English literature-based EE.

There can, of course, be exceptions to this rule. If you have a teacher who's passionate and knowledgeable about your topic (as my English teacher was about my theatre topic), you could ask that instructor. Consider all your options before you do this. There was no theatre teacher at my high school, so I couldn't find a theatre-specific advisor, but I chose the next best thing.

Before you approach a teacher to serve as your advisor, check with your high school to see what requirements they have for this process. Some IB high schools require your IB Extended Essay advisor to sign an Agreement Form , for instance.

Make sure that you ask your IB coordinator whether there is any required paperwork to fill out. If your school needs a specific form signed, bring it with you when you ask your teacher to be your EE advisor.

#4: Pick an Advisor Who Will Push You to Be Your Best

Some teachers might just take on students because they have to and aren't very passionate about reading drafts, only giving you minimal feedback. Choose a teacher who will take the time to read several drafts of your essay and give you extensive notes. I would not have gotten my A without being pushed to make my Extended Essay draft better.

Ask a teacher that you have experience with through class or an extracurricular activity. Do not ask a teacher that you have absolutely no connection to. If a teacher already knows you, that means they already know your strengths and weaknesses, so they know what to look for, where you need to improve, and how to encourage your best work.

Also, don't forget that your supervisor's assessment is part of your overall EE score . If you're meeting with someone who pushes you to do better—and you actually take their advice—they'll have more impressive things to say about you than a supervisor who doesn't know you well and isn't heavily involved in your research process.

Be aware that the IB only allows advisors to make suggestions and give constructive criticism. Your teacher cannot actually help you write your EE. The IB recommends that the supervisor spends approximately two to three hours in total with the candidate discussing the EE.

#5: Make Sure Your Essay Has a Clear Structure and Flow

The IB likes structure. Your EE needs a clear introduction (which should be one to two double-spaced pages), research question/focus (i.e., what you're investigating), a body, and a conclusion (about one double-spaced page). An essay with unclear organization will be graded poorly.

The body of your EE should make up the bulk of the essay. It should be about eight to 18 pages long (again, depending on your topic). Your body can be split into multiple parts. For example, if you were doing a comparison, you might have one third of your body as Novel A Analysis, another third as Novel B Analysis, and the final third as your comparison of Novels A and B.

If you're conducting an experiment or analyzing data, such as in this EE , your EE body should have a clear structure that aligns with the scientific method ; you should state the research question, discuss your method, present the data, analyze the data, explain any uncertainties, and draw a conclusion and/or evaluate the success of the experiment.

#6: Start Writing Sooner Rather Than Later!

You will not be able to crank out a 4,000-word essay in just a week and get an A on it. You'll be reading many, many articles (and, depending on your topic, possibly books and plays as well!). As such, it's imperative that you start your research as soon as possible.

Each school has a slightly different deadline for the Extended Essay. Some schools want them as soon as November of your senior year; others will take them as late as February. Your school will tell you what your deadline is. If they haven't mentioned it by February of your junior year, ask your IB coordinator about it.

Some high schools will provide you with a timeline of when you need to come up with a topic, when you need to meet with your advisor, and when certain drafts are due. Not all schools do this. Ask your IB coordinator if you are unsure whether you are on a specific timeline.

Below is my recommended EE timeline. While it's earlier than most schools, it'll save you a ton of heartache (trust me, I remember how hard this process was!):

• January/February of Junior Year: Come up with your final research topic (or at least your top three options).
• February of Junior Year: Approach a teacher about being your EE advisor. If they decline, keep asking others until you find one. See my notes above on how to pick an EE advisor.
• April/May of Junior Year: Submit an outline of your EE and a bibliography of potential research sources (I recommend at least seven to 10) to your EE advisor. Meet with your EE advisor to discuss your outline.
• Summer Between Junior and Senior Year: Complete your first full draft over the summer between your junior and senior year. I know, I know—no one wants to work during the summer, but trust me—this will save you so much stress come fall when you are busy with college applications and other internal assessments for your IB classes. You will want to have this first full draft done because you will want to complete a couple of draft cycles as you likely won't be able to get everything you want to say into 4,000 articulate words on the first attempt. Try to get this first draft into the best possible shape so you don't have to work on too many revisions during the school year on top of your homework, college applications, and extracurriculars.
• August/September of Senior Year: Turn in your first draft of your EE to your advisor and receive feedback. Work on incorporating their feedback into your essay. If they have a lot of suggestions for improvement, ask if they will read one more draft before the final draft.
• September/October of Senior Year: Submit the second draft of your EE to your advisor (if necessary) and look at their feedback. Work on creating the best possible final draft.
• November-February of Senior Year: Schedule your viva voce. Submit two copies of your final draft to your school to be sent off to the IB. You likely will not get your grade until after you graduate.

Remember that in the middle of these milestones, you'll need to schedule two other reflection sessions with your advisor . (Your teachers will actually take notes on these sessions on a form like this one , which then gets submitted to the IB.)

I recommend doing them when you get feedback on your drafts, but these meetings will ultimately be up to your supervisor. Just don't forget to do them!

The early bird DOES get the worm!

How Is the IB Extended Essay Graded?

Extended Essays are graded by examiners appointed by the IB on a scale of 0 to 34 . You'll be graded on five criteria, each with its own set of points. You can learn more about how EE scoring works by reading the IB guide to extended essays .

• Criterion A: Focus and Method (6 points maximum)
• Criterion B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 points maximum)
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking (12 points maximum)
• Criterion D: Presentation (4 points maximum)
• Criterion E: Engagement (6 points maximum)

How well you do on each of these criteria will determine the final letter grade you get for your EE. You must earn at least a D to be eligible to receive your IB Diploma.

Although each criterion has a point value, the IB explicitly states that graders are not converting point totals into grades; instead, they're using qualitative grade descriptors to determine the final grade of your Extended Essay . Grade descriptors are on pages 102-103 of this document .

Here's a rough estimate of how these different point values translate to letter grades based on previous scoring methods for the EE. This is just an estimate —you should read and understand the grade descriptors so you know exactly what the scorers are looking for.

30-34	Excellent: A
25-29	Good: B
17-24	Satisfactory: C
9-16	Mediocre: D
0-8	Elementary: E

Here is the breakdown of EE scores (from the May 2021 bulletin):

A	10.1%
B	24.4%
C	40.8%
D	22.5%
E	1.4%
N (No Grade Awarded)	0.7%

How Does the Extended Essay Grade Affect Your IB Diploma?

The Extended Essay grade is combined with your TOK (Theory of Knowledge) grade to determine how many points you get toward your IB Diploma.

To learn about Theory of Knowledge or how many points you need to receive an IB Diploma, read our complete guide to the IB program and our guide to the IB Diploma requirements .

This diagram shows how the two scores are combined to determine how many points you receive for your IB diploma (3 being the most, 0 being the least). In order to get your IB Diploma, you have to earn 24 points across both categories (the TOK and EE). The highest score anyone can earn is 45 points.

Let's say you get an A on your EE and a B on TOK. You will get 3 points toward your Diploma. As of 2014, a student who scores an E on either the extended essay or TOK essay will not be eligible to receive an IB Diploma .

Prior to the class of 2010, a Diploma candidate could receive a failing grade in either the Extended Essay or Theory of Knowledge and still be awarded a Diploma, but this is no longer true.

Figuring out how you're assessed can be a little tricky. Luckily, the IB breaks everything down here in this document . (The assessment information begins on page 219.)

40+ Sample Extended Essays for the IB Diploma Programme

In case you want a little more guidance on how to get an A on your EE, here are over 40 excellent (grade A) sample extended essays for your reading pleasure. Essays are grouped by IB subject.

• Business Management 1
• Chemistry 1
• Chemistry 2
• Chemistry 3
• Chemistry 4
• Chemistry 5
• Chemistry 6
• Chemistry 7
• Computer Science 1
• Economics 1
• Design Technology 1
• Design Technology 2
• Environmental Systems and Societies 1
• Geography 1
• Geography 2
• Geography 3
• Geography 4
• Geography 5
• Geography 6
• Literature and Performance 1
• Mathematics 1
• Mathematics 2
• Mathematics 3
• Mathematics 4
• Mathematics 5
• Philosophy 1
• Philosophy 2
• Philosophy 3
• Philosophy 4
• Philosophy 5
• Psychology 1
• Psychology 2
• Psychology 3
• Psychology 4
• Psychology 5
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 1
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 2
• Social and Cultural Anthropology 3
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 1
• Sports, Exercise and Health Science 2
• Visual Arts 1
• Visual Arts 2
• Visual Arts 3
• Visual Arts 4
• Visual Arts 5
• World Religion 1
• World Religion 2
• World Religion 3

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Psychology Extended Essay Guide: Definition, Rubric, And Topics

by  Antony W

June 9, 2024

This is the complete guide on Psychology Extended Essay for the IB students. Whether you’re currently determining what subjects to work on or you’ve already made up your mind that you want to focus on psychology, you’ll find this guide quite helpful.

The guide covers everything you need to know about the topic. In particular, you’ll learn:

• What psychology extended essay is
• How to choose psychology essay topics
• The best psychology EE topic examples
• How to write the extended essay and
• Psychology extended essay assessment criteria

Let’s get started.

What’s Psychology Extended Essay?

The IB EE Guide defines the subject as the examination of interaction of sociocultural, biological, and cognitive influences on human behavior and experiences.

As an IB student, you should have a solid understanding of what falls within this subject when developing a topic to investigate.

The aims of writing an Extended Essay in IB Psychology is to demonstrate that you can conduct independent research on a given topic and develop the skills necessary for creative and critical thinking.

When your examiners look at the EE, they should instantly see a systematic process of research relevant to the subject and your expression of intellectual discoveries.

What’s the Role of Psychology Extended Essay?

An extended essay in psychology is a project that gives you the chance to research a topic of personal interest within the discipline of psychology, which may extend beyond the Diploma Program.

Students who choose Psychology actively investigate a research issue that will enhance their analytical and communication abilities, as well as their comprehension of behavior.

An extended essay in this filed should introduce you to the pleasure of intellectual discovery as you study the “systematic of behavior and experience."  

When developing your topic, you should have a comprehensive comprehension of what fits under the realm of psychology.

To be clear, psychology covers the study of both human and nonhuman animal behavior. It has its own terminology, techniques, and literature.

For you to complete an extended essay in psychology, you must have a solid grasp of the subject and its techniques. Psychology is not a "residual" category for extended essay topics that do not fit into any other area.

You must therefore select themes that lend themselves to psychological inquiry and analysis, and you must carefully evaluate the assessment criteria while selecting a topic.

Get IB Psychology Extended Essay Writing Help

Feeling stuck with you IB Psychology Extended Essay and don’t know where to start?

Or maybe you already have a topic to explore but you don’t have enough time to do research and get the work completed?

Don’t worry because, with our  IB Extended Essay Writing Service ,  you can get the work completed in time. Our guarantee is that we help you to earn good grades by delivering well-researched essays on time. Place your order with us today and let us help you get the work done. Or keep reading below to learn how to write the essay in your free time.

How You Should Treat the Psychology Extended Essay Topics

A psychology extended essay requires you to examine a subject of personal interest in a systematic manner. You have to structure the assignment around a focused research topic, which you should strives to address throughout document.

You need to view the essay as an investigative and analytical argument than as a research hypothesis to be discovered through a formal psychological investigation employing research methodologies.

Data collection and research techniques, such as experiments, surveys, observations, and case studies, are unsuitable for an extended essay in psychology. So you shouldn’t include them in the essay.  

You should examine your own personal interests as a starting point for the essay writing process. That’s because experiences demonstrate that personal interest plays a significant influence in the success of an essay.

After picking a topic of interest, you can reduce the scope of their essay and research question by considering subfields within that field.  

Psychology Extended Essay Topic Examples

The following are examples of the best Psychology Extended Essay topics. These are just ideas, so use them as guidance to develop or come up with your own topic to investigate.

• What do you believe is the most prevalent cause of eating disorders and food indifference among adolescents?
• How do you see borderline personality disorder and how is it treated?
• Schizophrenia is an illness that requires considerable care. How do you describe it?
• Dreams are the most discussed topic in the world. What do you think about it?
• Attention-seeking disorder should be treated with a great deal of care and sensitivity from the beginning. What do you think about it?
• The dilemma of mankind has always been gender norms or gender prejudice.
• Child abuse and child labor are on the rise as global concerns. How can we alter it?
• How do you feel about prenatal development and its management?
• The parenting style has a significant impact on the behavior of children. What are your opinions on the subject?
• Aging is one of the most widely acknowledged facts of life How do you characterize this phenomena from a psychological standpoint?
• Divorce between parents has a significant impact on children's mental health. How should this be prevented?
• What are your opinions on the rising video game addiction among children?

Remember that a good extended essay topic in Psychology is the one that’s clear, concise, and can fit within the scope of the extended essay requirements.

IB Psychology Extended Essay Outline

Now that you have completed your research, it’s time to take the information you have gathered and put it together into a comprehensive Extended Essay for the IB Psychology.

Your EE should have three parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. Here’s how to develop each section.

The Introduction

The opening statement of an Extended Essay is huge, so you should give it your best. Your goal with this section of your EE is to establish and explain your argument. It helps to include relevant background information as this goes a long way to make your argument sensible. Define complex words for clarity. And make sure this section isn’t more than two paragraphs long.

Once you have ensured that your introduction has established a strong argument and can easily grab the attention of your reader, start working on the body section. The body should be at least 6 paragraphs. As it is with argumentative essays , each paragraph of your IB Psychology Extended Essay should:

Present a unique idea or argument.

Start with a topic sentence, which is a summary of the main idea that you will be discussing in that paragraph.

Include an example with an explanation on how relevant the example is to your argument.

End with a closing link (or sentence) that introduces the reader to the next consecutive paragraph.

The purpose of a topic sentence in IB Psychology Extended Essay is to introduce and explain the point you intend to make in a paragraph.

A good topic sentence should be clear, concise, and have a strong link to the argument you presented in the introduction. In addition to building on the points you made in a previous paragraph, the topic sentence should also give a clear summary of your argument.

The conclusion of your IB Psychology Extended Essay is as important as other sections of the essay. So you should equally spend enough time writing it. The conclusion to your IB Psychology EE should naturally link to the introduction and summarize the significant points that you’ve made throughout the essay.

As with the conclusion on any given argumentative essay topic, the conclusion of your IB Psychology EE should not merely reflect a re-write if your main ideas. Instead, you should restate the ideas using different terms and phrases to retain the meaning without sounding too repetitive. Furthermore, the conclusion must never introduce a new idea to the article as this could easily distract your readers.

How to Write a Psychology Extended Essay

To write a comprehensive extended essay in psychology:

Read and understand the IB’s EE handbook and, if your teacher issues additional instructions, make sure you follow them.

Choose a preliminary topic and a tentative research question for your extended essay in Psychology. Some questions to ask yourself when choosing the topic to work on include:

• Why is my topic and research issue significant to me personally?
• Is there a particular discussion, book, or other source that can assist me in narrowing my focus or choosing my topic and the research question?
• What do I perceive to be the greatest obstacle as I begin this process? How do I handle this difficulty?

We recommend that you consult your supervisor, so they can provide input about the suitability of your ideas for project.

Start your research early. Begin your research with Google Scholar, JYKDOK library, and EBSCO Academic Search Elite.

As you write you write your essay, your focus should be on developing your case by citing pertinent concepts, theories, and studies from academic psychology research publications and scholarly literature.

• Do NOT make any claims that you can’ back by evidence from psychological theories or investigations.
• Provide a well-balanced argument in answer to your research topic.
• In addition to describing your sources, analyze them in light of your research topic.
• It is OK to modify your essay's topic and research question as you write. Your sources may yield novel insights.
• Always pay attention to the EE evaluation criteria as you work on your subject

Consult with your EE supervisor for first reflection. Your supervisor will provide prompt comments on your progress. In addition, the instructor will advise you on your initial reflection.

Psychology Extended Essay Assessment Criteria

The following is the assessment criteria used by IB to evaluate psychology extended essays:

Criterion A: Focus and Method

The key to writing an essay with concentration is a targeted research subject. Although there are several extremely good questions, inferior essays in the psychology subject tend to have difficult questions.

Keep in mind that each component of the essay must directly address the research topic. Be careful to make sure that you don’t spend an excessive amount of time explaining concepts and theories before answering the topic directly with relevant research.

Criterion: Knowledge and Understanding

Stronger essays define essential concepts and present research pertinent to the study. On the other hand, weaker essays often employ language without explaining its relevance to the study or subject.

For instance, claiming that a research showed minimal instrument bias without providing a detailed explanation for why this is the case can cost you valuable marks.

You need to make sure your essay doesn’t have inaccuracies in the usage of words such as external and internal validity and the identification of research techniques.

Criterion C: Critical Reasoning

When writing a psychology extended essay, you must discuss, analyze, and evaluate the significant studies that you cite. Your work can’t be merely descriptive. In other words, you can’t just offer a list of various studies, frequently without a connection to the study issue.

Instead, your essay should include evidence against or for the thesis and then demonstrate why your main argument is stronger.

Criterion D: Presentation

Despite the fact that citation is something that teacher directly examine, you need to make sure your Psychology extended essay has clear citation.

Do not use footnotes for anything other than citations, since it frequently interferes with the reading of the essay.

The key to effective presentation is understandable text. Spacing is an issue in several writings. You must either indent your paragraphs or leave a blank line between them. The last mistake you want to make as far as presentation is concerned is hindering the readability of your extended essay.

Criterion E: Engagement (Or the EE Reflection)

Strong remarks illustrate your research journey and development as a researcher. These reflections elucidate your capacity to identify problems, adopt necessary modifications, and demonstrate their reflexivity throughout the research and writing process.

Weak extended essay reflections detail meetings with the supervisor, reiterated the essay's results, or described the students' passion for their topic.  

Choosing a single area of your research journey to describe and analyze in each reflection is preferable than attempting to cover all aspects of their investigation.

Revising Your IB Psychology Extended Essay

Ending with a strong conclusion doesn’t make your essay complete. You have to edit the assignment thoroughly to make sure it meets the assessment standards of IB EE .

Start by looking at the obvious grammatical errors that could make your IB Psychology EE to mean something other than what you intended. Sometimes your eyes may not notice minor spelling and grammatical errors. That’s why it’s important to use a tool such as Grammarly or Hemmingway App for assistance.

The next in your revision is to ask yourself the “so what?” question. This is where you ask yourself whether your essay communicates the intended message very well so that when your audience asks questions, the essay provides the answers that they need – and in an instant.

The most important questions to ask when trying to answer the “so what” factor are as follows:

Does this essay provide the information that my audience should care about in the first place?

Do the ideas addressed in my IB Psychology Extended Essay add to what others already know about the essay?

As yourself these two questions and you can be sure to make your essay greater than what it currently is.

Advice for IB Students Taking Psychology Extended Essay

Some of the most intriguing, engaging, and successful psychology extended essays don’t always focuses on the course material.

Typically, essays constrained by the guidance provide detailed, emotionless descriptions of classic psychological research. Supervisors do not require in-depth understanding of the student's topic; this is a less relevant component in topic selection than resource availability, student engagement, and essay length.

Generally, "pop psychology" or "self-help"-related topics are inappropriate for the extended essay. Psychology, as stated in the definition, is a systematic study.

In an effort to comprehend behavior and experience, psychologists undertake research studies and construct theories.

Extended essays in psychology must feature support by meticulous and appropriate citation of relevant psychological theories and/or studies. This suggests that academic and psychological research publications and books are the finest resources.

The IB Psychology Extended Essay focuses on an in-depth investigation of an area within the field of psychology. While it’s on a subject presented in the IB EE prompt, your teacher may also allow you to explore a topic of your interest.

This subject gives you the opportunity to explore research questions that can not only promote your understanding of behavior but also develop your research, writing, creative, and intellectual discovery skills.

In this lesson, you will learn everything about the IB Physics EE, from what it is to writing a comprehensive Extended Essay on the subject. Let’s get started.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

How to Write a Psychology Extended Essay? Insights From an IB Writer

Writing an exceptional Psychology extended essay that adheres to general IB criteria is challenging and rewarding. Over the years, I’ve gathered valuable insights into this process, and I’m excited to share my tips and strategies with IB students.

In this article, I’ll provide a roadmap for success, covering essential aspects such as selecting your topic, conducting research, and structuring your essay.

Understanding the Psychology Extended Essay

A Psychology extended essay is a significant research project that IB (International Baccalaureate) students undertake as part of their IB Diploma program. It’s an in-depth investigation into a specific psychological topic or question, allowing students to apply their knowledge and research skills more independently and extensively.

The assessment criteria for the Psychology extended essay are divided into five categories:

• Focus and method (6 points).
• Knowledge and understanding (6 points).
• Critical thinking (12 points).
• Presentation (4 points).
• Engagement (6 points).

In the IB program, you can earn a maximum of 34 points when you write your Psychology extended essay. Combined with the ones you get from your TOK and CAS activities, they make up your total IB Diploma score .

Now, let’s talk about the word count for your Psychology extended essay. Your work should be around 3,000 to 4,000 words long. It includes all the writing in the central part of your essay, but it doesn’t count things like the abstract, table of contents, footnotes, bibliography, or any appendices you might have.

Choosing the Right Psychology Extended Essay Topic

Choosing the perfect Psychology extended essay topic is crucial to shaping your research process. I will give you some valuable tips that will make it easier for you to pick an excellent topic for further investigation.

Psychology Extended Essay Research Questions

According to the general IB criteria, the primary focus of your work should be on Psychology extended essay research questions. They should not be buried within your text but prominently featured in your introduction. It not only aligns with academic standards but also piques the reader’s interest from the very beginning.

For instance, consider the research question: “What are the key psychological factors influencing adolescent decision-making?” This thought-provoking issue is not only relevant but also captivating. It invites readers into the intriguing world of Psychology.

How to Find Ideal Psychology Extended Essay Topics IB

Here are some valuable tips to help you refine your focus and choose a topic that genuinely resonates with your academic interests and the Psychology extended essay rubric :

• Start by contemplating your interests within this field. What topics or areas have captivated your curiosity during your coursework?
• Your IB Psychology teacher is an invaluable resource. Seek their guidance and expertise when brainstorming potential topics.
• Ensure that your chosen topic aligns with the assessment criteria, especially the emphasis on research questions. It will help you stay on track and meet IB standards.
• Think about the feasibility of your chosen topic. Do you have access to the necessary resources, data, or participants to conduct research?
• Start with a broader topic area and gradually narrow it down to a specific research question.
• Before finalizing your topic, consider conducting some initial research. It will help you gauge the availability of information and whether the topic is a viable option.

If you want more ideas for Psychology extended essay topics , follow the link to find more information on our blog.

Psychology Extended Essay Research Sources

When conducting research for your Psychology extended essay, gathering information from various credible sources to support your arguments and provide a well-rounded understanding of your chosen topic is essential.

Academic Journals

Academic journals are rich sources of peer-reviewed research articles. Options like the “ Journal of Abnormal Psychology ,” “ Psychological Review ,” and “ Psychological Bulletin ” often contain in-depth studies and findings on various psychological topics.

Textbooks and scholarly books written by renowned psychologists provide comprehensive background information and theories about your topic. Look for books by authors such as Sigmund Freud, B.F. Based on your specific area of interest, Skinner, Jean Piaget, or Erik Erikson.

Use online databases like PubMed , PsycINFO , and Google Scholar to search for academic articles, research papers, and dissertations related to your research question. These databases offer a vast collection of scholarly resources.

University/School Libraries

I highly recommend using your university’s or local library’s psychology section. Libraries often provide access to various print and electronic resources, including books, journals, and databases.

Government Publications

Government agencies publish reports and studies on various psychological topics, such as the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) or the World Health Organization (WHO). In my experience, these reports often contain valuable statistics and research findings.

Professional Organizations

Not all students use these resources, but I recommend checking it out. Websites of associations like the American Psychological Association (APA) or the British Psychological Society (BPS) offer valuable resources, including research articles, guidelines, and reports related to Psychology.

Interviews and Surveys

If your research involves gathering primary data, consider conducting interviews or surveys with experts or individuals related to your topic. Trust me, it will give a whole new color to your work. Ensure that you obtain informed consent and follow ethical guidelines for data collection.

Structuring Your Psychology Extended Essay

A well-structured essay aligns with the Psychology extended essay rubric and facilitates a coherent presentation of your ideas and arguments. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the components of an effective structure.

Introduction: Setting the Stage

The beginning of your extended essay is like a front door. It’s where you start your research and get your readers interested.

First, you should quickly examine the crucial ideas, theories, or research of your topic. This helps your readers understand what your research is about. Next, you need to state your main point clearly and simply (it’s your thesis). Make sure it connects to your research questions and gives a sense of what your essay will be like. It sets the tone for the whole essay.

Body Paragraphs: Developing Your Arguments

The body of your extended essay is where you’ll present your research, analyze findings, and develop your arguments:

• Divide your text into clear, logically structured subsections corresponding to the different aspects or arguments of your topic. Each subsection should have a clear purpose and contribute to your overall thesis.
• Cite relevant research studies, experiments, or data to support your arguments. Analyze and interpret this evidence critically, demonstrating your understanding of the topic.
• Incorporate transition words and phrases to ensure smooth flow between paragraphs and subsections. It enhances readability and aligns with the general IB criteria for clarity.

Also, remember to address counterarguments when applicable. Acknowledging opposing viewpoints and providing counter-evidence demonstrates a well-rounded analysis.

Conclusion: Summarizing Your Findings

The end of your essay is like the finish line. It’s where you wrap things up nicely for your readers. Start by repeating your main point, which is called your thesis. Then, discuss the essential things you found and learned in your essay. But don’t bring in new stuff here.

To get a perfect grade , you should also talk about why your research matters in the big picture of Psychology. How does it add to what we already know? End with something that makes your readers think or feel strongly. That’s how you leave a mark on them.

Writing a Psychology Extended Essay: Final Tips

In the final stretch of writing your Psychology extended essay, several critical considerations make a substantial difference in the quality and integrity of your work.

Talking about plagiarism is really important. It’s like a big problem that can get you in trouble at school. When you use someone else’s ideas, research, or words, you must give them credit by correctly citing them. You must also carefully and consistently use the proper citation style for extended essay Psychology (APA or MLA).

Also, remember that editing and proofreading are equally paramount. These processes are not just about catching typos or grammatical errors; they are the final touches that polish your essay to a high standard. When reviewing your work, focus on your arguments’ clarity, coherence, and logical flow.

Need help with your IB extended essay?

From research and analysis to structuring and editing, our skilled mentors will be by your side, helping you craft an exceptional extended essay that not only meets the wordcount and stringent IB criteria but also reflects your passion for selected IB group .

Lastly, the IB Psychology extended essay examples can serve as valuable guides. They offer structural models, inspire research questions, and provide an understanding of the expectations outlined in this rubric. However, remember that your essay must be an original piece of work. While examples can guide you, ensure that your content is your creation and that you conduct your research independently.

To Sum It Up

Here, we come to the final part of our Psychology extended essay guide. Such a paper is a valuable component of the IB Diploma Program, providing students with a unique opportunity to explore a specific psychological topic in depth, develop essential research and critical thinking skills, and prepare for higher education.

By following these tips from my experience , you’ll be well on your way to writing an exceptional IB Psychology extended essay that meets academic standards and earns a high grade. Good luck with your writing! ANd if you need assistance – Extended Essay Writers will always cover your back!

Luke MacQuoid

Luke MacQuoid has extensive experience teaching English as a foreign language in Japan, having worked with students of all ages for over 12 years. Currently, he is teaching at the tertiary level. Luke holds a BA from the University of Sussex and an MA in TESOL from Lancaster University, both located in England. As well to his work as an IB Examiner and Master Tutor, Luke also enjoys sharing his experiences and insights with others through writing articles for various websites, including extendedessaywriters.com blog

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Extended Essay: Individuals & Societies: Psychology

• Step 1 - Choosing a Subject
• Step 2 - Choosing a Topic
• Step 3 - Draft a Research Question
• Step 4 - Finding Sources
• Step 5 - Evaluating Information
• Step 6 - Bibliography & Citation
• Step 7 - Organizing Information
• The Arts: Visual Arts
• Individuals & Societies: Business Management
• Individuals & Societies: History
• Individuals & Societies: Psychology
• Language Acquisition
• Language and Literature
• Sciences: Biology
• Sciences: Sports, Exercise, and Health Sciences
• Interdisciplinary Papers: World Studies
• Assessment Criteria
• Research Questions
• Investigation

Extended Essays in Psychology

Choosing a Topic

Psychology can be defined as “the study of behavior”. This could include the behaviors of humans and non-human animals, and has a range of specialized terms, methods and literature. It is therefore essential for students undertaking an EE in psychology to:
When choosing their topic, students should remember that their EE must be based on secondary sources only. The collection of primary data is not permitted for the psychology EE.

Establishing a subtopic of Psychology will be very important for students narrowing their topics.

If a student is interested in stress, they may then narrow this to the topic of stress within commercial aviation. Many large commercial airlines employ psychologists to investigate pilot performance and factors such as stress or emergency management. The student’s research question could be: “To what extent does airline pilot stress affect airline safety standards?”

Students must ensure that enough relevant and appropriate resources are available for them to conduct their research. They should investigate this at the start of their planning process.

The research question should require the construction of a systematically structured and fully supported argument in the development of an informed conclusion.

One- or two-language households	The relationship between bilingualism and cognitive development
Sleep and learning	An examination of whether and how sleep contributes to learning
Music and autism	An examination of the extent to which music therapy is effective in enhancing the communication skills of individuals diagnosed with autism
Motivation and achievement in sport	The relationship between motivation techniques and performance in long-distance running

Approaches to Research

Research in Psychology

Primary data collected using the students’ own experiments, surveys, observations and case studies is inappropriate for the EE. Instead, students must use secondary data from published sources. They should develop their argument with careful and appropriate citation of relevant concepts, theories and studies from academic psychological research journals and books. Students should not make any assertions unsupported by evidence drawn from psychological theories or studies.

Gender-related color choices		Media influences on altruistic behaviors
	To what extent is preferred color choice acquired or innate in young children?		To what extent do presentations in the media affect adult choices in volunteering to work for charities?
	Recent fashions in the colors of children’s clothing, furnishings and toys seem to have reverted from gender-neutral schemes to pink for girls and blue for boys. This provides material for investigating the question of the extent to which such choices are the result of socialization or of innate predisposition. A comparison of evaluated published research findings supporting each type of explanation, having linked the studies to relevant psychological theory. Findings and related interpretations regarding the research question from different decades and/or cultural groups could be compared and evaluative commentary provided, focusing on addressing the “To what extent” aspect of the question, culminating in an informed summary conclusion.		An interest in social influences on pro-social behaviors in adults could result in curiosity about the factors affecting the varying levels of adult participation in volunteer activities. Is there evidence or theory to suggest some individuals are more predisposed to pro-social behaviors than other individuals? Use theory-based research into the efficacy of health campaigns to investigate the impact of media presentations on adult volunteer rates. A balanced argument could evaluate evidence claiming support for the success of television adverts, personal presentations at meetings, newspaper articles, etc in recruiting adult volunteers for work with charities, comparing this with evidence to suggest personality type as a more dominant factor in pro-social behavior. The question covers a broad area including possible trans-historical and cross-cultural variations, so the essay’s introduction should clearly indicate the chosen parameters.

Psychology Sources

databases offer topic pages and the Topic Finder search feature.  This video will show you  .
databases have two features to help you find search words as well as topics and sub-topics. Use the "subject guide search" feature in   databases to help you find good search terms. . Use the "topic finder" to help you find good topics and sub-topics

Writing the Essay

To develop a well-rounded understanding of their topic, students should carefully evaluate any research they cite. The essay should offer a balanced argument in response to the research question.

Students should demonstrate critical awareness and understanding of the material they use. They should analyze rather than simply describe. They need to apply what they have read to the research question rather than report the information.

A Psychology EE should allow students to recognize that the content and methodologies are wide ranging and require students to critically evaluate the choices they make with regard to methodologies. An EE in psychology should demonstrate such understanding.

Students can address cultural, ethical, gender and methodological considerations potentially affecting how a particular study or theory interprets behavior. Comparative analysis may also be a useful evaluative strategy.

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• The copycat effect: An analysis of suicides emulated from non-fictional and fictional media
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• To what extent is exposure to the thin ideal via visual mass media a contributing factor in eating disorders among adolescent females?
• The Effect of Narcissism on Serial Murderer Tendencies
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• To what extent do self-compassion-based therapies contribute to reduction in depressive symptoms?
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Psychology Extended Essay Topics

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is an international education program for high schoolers. To graduate, students must complete the core curriculum area and a few extended courses including a psychology extended essay.

The psychology extended essay is a research paper focusing on a question within the field of psychology. Usually 2000-4000 words in length, this essay requires students to select a topic, conduct serious in-depth research, analyze their findings, and document their sources. The essay should demonstrate the student’s ability to think critically, challenge existing theories, and make new arguments or observations.

Ultimately, completing a successful psychology extended essay indicates that the student can develop an understanding of the fundamentals of psychology, comprehend what psychologists do, and contribute to this field while demonstrating outstanding writing skills.

Brainstorming Psychology Essay Ideas

Finding the right topic for an IB extended essay in psychology can be a challenging process. It requires you to do research and find creative ways to analyze and interpret the data. To make this task easier, it is important to brainstorm potential topics that can be explored and discussed in an Extended Essay. Here are a few steps that can help in the brainstorming process.

• Gather Information: Before you start brainstorming, make sure that you have gathered sufficient information about the subject. Research about different psychologists, theories, and concepts related to psychology. By doing this, you will have a basic understanding of the subject before you start brainstorming.
• Explore Different Perspectives: Brainstorming is all about exploring different perspectives. You should try to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions by looking at the problem from different angles.
• Make Lists: Make lists of potential topics that you can write about. Don’t just focus on one idea – come up with several related topics to explore. This will help you narrow down your list of possible topics.
• Discuss With Others: Discuss the potential topics with your friends, family, and even teachers. By talking to them and hearing their opinions, you will get new ideas that you can explore.
• Write it Down: Once you have found a few possible topics for your essay, write them down. This will help you keep track of the ideas and ensure that none of them are forgotten.

By following the above steps, you should be able to come up with several potential topics that you can use for your IB Extended Essay in psychology. Once you have your list of topics, you can start researching and gathering evidence that can help you make your essay stand out.

• The impact of social media on adolescents’ self-esteem and mental health.
• Cognitive biases and their role in decision-making processes.
• The psychological effects of music therapy on stress and anxiety reduction.
• The role of attachment styles in romantic relationships and relationship satisfaction.
• The influence of color psychology on consumer behavior and marketing strategies.
• The psychological effects of nature exposure on stress reduction and overall well-being.
• The role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership and workplace success.
• The impact of parental styles on children’s social and emotional development.
• The correlation between creativity and mental health disorders in artists.
• The role of mindfulness meditation in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• The psychological impact of sleep deprivation on cognitive functioning and mood.
• The effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating various mental health disorders.
• The role of neuroplasticity in recovery from traumatic brain injuries.
• The influence of cultural factors on the perception and expression of emotions.
• The impact of stereotype threat on academic performance and self-concept in minority students.
• The psychological effects of virtual reality technology on empathy and social connection.
• The role of resilience in coping with adverse life events and promoting psychological well-being.
• The impact of video games on cognitive skills, aggression, and prosocial behavior.
• The influence of birth order on personality development and sibling relationships.
• The role of subliminal messaging in shaping attitudes and consumer behavior.

Get Help With Your Paper

Choosing a psychology essay topic.

Choosing the right essay topic for your IB Extended Essay in psychology is important. You want to make sure you pick a topic that has plenty of research material available, but isn’t too broad or too narrow. To help you find the perfect essay topic, there are a few steps you can follow.

Look at the course material

Your first step should be to review the course material for your psychology course. By looking back over the lectures and reading material, you will get a better  idea of the types of topics you could use for your Extended Essay . This can also help you identify any topics you may have overlooked.

Brainstorming

Once you have reviewed the course material, it’s time to start brainstorming. Think about specific interests you have in psychology and come up with ideas related to those areas. It can also be helpful to look online at the various psychology essay topics other students have chosen and see if any ideas spark your interest.

Do Research

Before deciding on a specific topic for your Extended Essay, make sure to do some research. You want to make sure there is enough research material available so that you can effectively answer your research question and develop a strong argument. It’s also important to make sure the topic you choose hasn’t already been done too many times.

Narrow Your Topic

Once you have identified a potential topic, spend some time narrowing it down. Think about how you can take the topic and make it more specific. You don’t want to choose a topic that is too general or one that is too narrow. Remember, the goal is to find a topic you can effectively research and make a strong argument.

Choose Your Topic

Now it’s time to make your final decision. Review the topics you have narrowed down and make sure they meet all of the criteria required for the IB Extended Essay. If you feel strongly about one of the topics, then it’s likely the right choice for you. Remember to stay open-minded and consider other ideas as well.

Structuring an IB Extended Essay in Psychology

Writing a psychology extended essay can be a daunting task. Knowing how to structure your essay can be just as important as researching and writing the content. It is essential you have a clear understanding of the format and components of an extended essay before you start.

Overview of IB Extended Essay Format

The IB Extended Essay format is a standardized document that contains information related to the topic of write up. It also includes details about the essay’s structure, different sections, and their purpose. Here are the main components of the IB Extended Essay:

• Table of contents

Introduction

• Body of the essay
• Bibliography/list of references

The title page is the first page of your essay. All information related to the essay, including its title, author’s name and contact information, supervisor’s name and date of submission must be included here.

The abstract is a summary of the essay. It should be written in a paragraph format and should not exceed 300 words. In the abstract, you should provide a brief overview of your topic, the methodology used, results and findings, and the conclusion.

Table of Contents

A Table of Contents lists all the sections and subsections of the essay, along with their respective pages. This helps the reader navigate the paper more efficiently.

The introduction is the section where you provide background information on the subject matter and outline the aims and objectives of your essay. You should keep this section concise and focused.

Body of the Essay

The body of the essay contains your research and analysis. It is divided into sections and subsections depending on the topics you discuss. You should provide evidence to support each statement you make and explain the conclusions you draw.

The conclusion summarizes the points discussed in the body of the essay and provides an overall assessment of your research. You should also include any suggestions for further research based on your findings.

Bibliography/List of References

The bibliography or list of references section should include a comprehensive list of the sources used for your essay. It is important to ensure that all sources are properly cited in the text and in the bibliography.

By familiarizing yourself with the format and components of an IB Extended Essay in Psychology, you can ensure that you produce a well-structured and informative essay.

Research Sources for Psychology IB Extended Essay

When writing an IB extended essay on psychology, research is essential in order to provide evidence to support your argument. Therefore, it is important to know the different types of acceptable sources of research. Here are the four main types of sources you should consider when researching for a psychology essay.

Books and Journals

Books and journals published by psychologists or other experts in the psychological field are highly reliable sources of information. These sources often provide more in-depth coverage than other sources, as well as more detailed information about specific topics. Additionally, books and journals often provide bibliographies that can be used to find additional resources. It is important to note, however, that not all books and journals are created equal. Be sure to evaluate the credibility of the author and publishing company before citing a book or journal in your essay.

Websites can provide additional information about psychology topics. However, it is important to remember that not all websites are reliable. Before citing a website in your essay, make sure to evaluate it in order to determine its credibility. Good indicators of a credible website include: having accurate information, being up-to-date, and having an author with relevant credentials.

Articles written by experts in their fields, such as an article written by a psychologist in a psychology magazine, can be useful sources of information. These articles often provide detailed facts and opinions that can help support your argument. As with books and journals, it is important to evaluate the reliability of an article before using it in your essay.

Interviews and Surveys

Interviews and surveys conducted with experts in the field of psychology can provide valuable personal insights. Interviews are particularly helpful if the person being interviewed has experience in the topic being discussed. Surveys can provide statistical data on a variety of topics. Be sure to cite any interviews or surveys you use in your essay to avoid plagiarism.

Using reliable sources of  research is essential when writing an IB extended essay on psychology . Books and journals published by experts, carefully evaluated websites, articles written by professionals, and interviews and surveys conducted with experts can all be useful sources of information. Make sure to evaluate the credibility of each source before citing it in your essay.

Writing the Draft of Psychology Extended Essay

Writing an IB extended essay in Psychology can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure where to start. The key to writing a successful essay is to break it down into smaller, manageable steps.

The first step is to create a draft of your essay. This is the foundation for your essay and should include the main ideas and arguments you plan to cover. Here are some tips on how to write a strong draft of your essay:

• Start by creating an outline that states the main points and arguments of your essay. This will help you stay focused and on track as you write.
• Make sure to provide evidence to back up your arguments. Use reliable sources such as research papers and scholarly articles as support for your claims.
• Write in a logical, chronological order, moving from one point to the next in a clear and organized way.
• Be sure to give your essay a strong introduction and conclusion that summarize the main points covered.
• Read over your draft several times and make necessary changes or additions to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Writing a successful draft of your Psychology IB extended essay does not have to be a daunting process. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can craft a well-written and thoughtful essay that meets all the criteria for success.

Revising the Psychology Extended Essay

Writing is a process that requires you to revise and refine your work. Once you have a draft of your psychology extended essay, it’s time to go back and make improvements. Revising is a great way to ensure that your essay is clear, concise, and free of errors. Here are some tips to help you revise your extended essay in psychology.

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Read Your Work Out Loud

Reading your work out loud or having someone else read it can help you catch errors you may have missed when reading silently. When you read your essay out loud, pay attention to parts that don’t flow well, sentences that are too long, and words that are used too often. Having a friend or classmate read your work can provide a fresh perspective, allowing you to identify any issues you have overlooked.

Eliminate Wordiness

In longer essays, it’s easy to be wordy and use unnecessary words. Go through your essay and look for any words or phrases that can be cut out without changing the meaning of the sentence. Eliminating unnecessary words will not only make the essay easier to read but can also help you stay within the word count limit.

Look For Clichés

Cliches are phrases that are overused and lack originality. Even though they’re easy to write, they can make your essay sound dull and uninspired. To improve the quality of your essay, search for any cliches and replace them with more vivid and precise language.

Check For Grammar And Spelling

One of the most important aspects of revising an essay is to check for grammatical and spelling errors. While spell check can help catch some errors, it’s important to proofread your work carefully to ensure no mistakes slipped through. Additionally, take note of any incorrect comma or apostrophe usage throughout your essay.

Review Your Introduction And Conclusion

The introduction and conclusion of your essay are important elements that need to be revised. Read through both sections and make sure they accurately reflect the main ideas and points made in the essay. If needed, consider rewriting the introduction and conclusion to ensure they are as effective as possible.

Take Advantage of Feedback

Having another person review your essay can help you improve its quality. Ask someone you trust to provide feedback on your work and look at it with a critical eye. This can help you identify where changes need to be made so you can perfect your essay.

Taking the extra time to revise your extended essay in psychology can make all the difference in the quality of your work. These tips can help you make sure your essay is clear and error-free, allowing you to craft an IB extended essay that stands out from the rest.

Citing Sources in the Psychology Essay

It is important to always properly cite sources when writing an extended essay on Psychology. Citing sources shows that your work is based on the research of others and acknowledges their contributions to the field of psychology. It also allows readers to check the accuracy and validity of your work, as well as providing them with additional information about the research you are discussing.

When you cite a source, it should include the author’s name, publication date, and relevant page numbers if applicable. In addition, you should provide a brief description of the source material and its relevance to your essay topic. You should also provide a works cited list at the end of your essay. All the sources you have cited in the essay should be included in the list.

There are three main citation styles used in academic papers: APA, MLA, and Chicago. For an IB extended essay on psychology, you should use the APA citation style. This style utilizes parenthetical citations in the body of the paper and a separate reference list at the end. APA citations generally include the author’s name, year of publication, and page number if appropriate. For example: (Smith, 2020, p. 10).

It is important to make sure that you are consistent in your use of the citation style throughout your paper. If you cite sources multiple times, you should use the same citation format each time. Additionally, double-check every citation to make sure it is correct and complete. This will help ensure that your essay is both accurate and convincing.

In conclusion, it is essential to properly cite all sources when  writing an Extended Essay  on psychology. Doing so demonstrates that your work is based on the research of others, and it allows readers to verify the accuracy and validity of your work. It is important to use a consistent citation style throughout the paper and to double-check every citation for accuracy.

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The External Assessment Process of an IB Extended Essay in Psychology

The external assessment process is a crucial part of any  extended essay  in psychology. This process enables those reading the essay to objectively evaluate its content and provide feedback on its contents and structure. The following criteria are used to evaluate an IB extended essay in psychology:

• A Clear Introduction – Introduce the topic in an interesting and meaningful way.
• Scientific Rigor – Demonstrate knowledge of the scientific research methods and cite relevant sources.
• Analysis – Make use of analytical techniques and theories to draw conclusions from the data.
• Discussion – Present your data in an objective manner and discuss both positive and negative results.
• Conclusion – Summarize the main points of the essay and provide a clear conclusion.
• Organization – Structure the essay in a logical and clear way that is easy to follow.

When writing your essay, it is important to keep these criteria in mind. Make sure that you include all of the components required for evaluation and that all of the information presented is accurate and relevant to the topic.

The external assessment process is the last step in completing an IB extended essay in psychology. After the essay is evaluated and feedback is given, you can make any necessary revisions to ensure that the final product is of the highest quality. Taking the time to get feedback from an outside source can greatly improve the quality of your essay and increase your chances of receiving a high grade.

This guide has provided an overview of how to approach writing an IB Extended Essay in Psychology. To summarize, the key steps are to brainstorm potential essay topics, narrow down your focus and create an outline, research and include sources, write a draft and review it, revise and make improvements, cite your sources, and understand the external assessment process.

The extended essay process can seem overwhelming at times, but with thoughtful planning and the right resources it is achievable. Remember to start early and give yourself enough time for research and revisions. If you need additional help, there are many online resources available to assist you.

By following the steps in this guide, you should be well on your way to writing an excellent Psychology IB Extended Essay. Good luck!

• Last Edit 11 May 2023

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Extended Essay Guide: Criteria, Format, Sample EEs

• Criteria, Format, Sample EEs
• Annotated Bibliographies
• DP Research Process
• Databases & Academic Journals
• Evaluate Sources
• Academic Integrity
• MLA Citation Format
• CSE Citation Format (Science & Math)
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The Assessment Crtiteria in Detail!

• Criterion A: Focus and method
• Criterion B: Knowledge and understanding
• Criterion C: Critical Thinking
• Criterion D: Presentation
• Criterion E: Engagement
• EE_How to maximize marks for different subjects?

• Criterion C: Critical thinking

Notes from the IB

RE: Research Question and Title of Extended Essay

Please note the statement below from the EE curriculum manager regarding the need to have both a title and a RQ for all subjects. Previous versions of the EE Guide indicated that the title and the RQ should be the same for History, Business Management and Mathematics. This is no longer the case.  All essays, regardless of the subject, need to have both a RQ and a title.

Hi Kathy, 

To answer your question, I am going to quote directly from a response John Royce provided, on this forum, in October in response to a very similar question: (it was a question about using Spanish sources - hence the mention of Spanish)

It is certainly  permissible to use sources which are not in the language of the essay, but translation into the target language is required , one cannot assume that the reader understands the original language.

It is usual to quote the original as well as presenting the translation.  [Do not put quotation marks around your translation, just around the original]

Umberto Eco argues ("in Mouse or rat?") that direct translation may lose meaning, paraphrase or use of different idioms may be required to get the ideas across. Paul Bellos ("Is that a fish in your ear?") makes a similar argument - direct translation may confound meaning... Direct translation may not be ideal - meaning and understanding are preferred - so, not to worry that your student with her good Spanish cannot present a direct translation.

What  must be made clear is that the translations are those of the student;  these are her understandings. Readers can make of that what they will - and if unsure, are presented with the original - they can seek another translation.  A note in the acknowledgements and/or in the introduction to the effect that all translations are those of the writer is ... essential.

In response to the question about the  Bibliography/Works cited, my preference would be to list the source in its original Thai version, but perhaps with the English in brackets, to help the examiner.

Your bibliography will have the entries in Thai characters first in the document. Any in-text citation to Thai sources will be in (Thai characters [English translation]).

Citation in Thai [English translation]

Works Cited Example:

วงษ์ปัญญา, ธนกร [Wongpunya, Thanakorn]. “โรงงานยาสูบรวยแค่ไหน และเอาเงินไปทำอะไรบ้าง.”  [How rich is the Thailand Tobacco Monopoly and where does the money go?] (candidate translation). The Standard, The Standard, 30 Aug. 2018, thestandard.co/thailand-tobacco-monopoly/.

Format of the Extended Essay

Required Formatting

The extended essay should be written in a clear, correct and formal academic style, appropriate to the subject from which the topic is drawn. Given that the extended essay is a formally written research paper, it should strive to maintain a professional, academic look. 

To help achieve this, the following formatting is  required:

• 12-point, readable font (Calibri or Times New Roman);
• double spacing throughout entire Essay;
• page numbering - top right corner;
• no candidate or school name or supervisor name on the title page or page headers.

Submitting the extended essay in the required format will help set the tone of the essay and will aid readability for on-screen assessment by examiners.

Required S tructure

The structure of the essay is very important. It helps students to organize the argument, making the best use of the evidence collected. 

There are six required elements of the final work to be submitted. More details about each element are given in the  “Presentation”  section. Please note that the order in which these elements are presented here is not necessarily the order in which they should be written. 

Six required elements of the extended essay:

• Contents page
• Introduction
• Body of the essay
• References and bibliography -- if MLA "Works Cited" if CSE "References"

1. Required Title Page  

The title page should include  only  the following information: 

• the title of the essay
• the research question
• the subject the essay is registered in (if it is a language essay also state which category it falls into; if a world studies essay also state the theme and the two subjects utilized) 

The upper limit is 4,000 words for all extended essays. 

2. Required Contents Page

A contents page must be provided at the beginning of the extended essay and all pages should be numbered. Please note that an index page is not required and if included will be treated as if it is not present.

3. Required Introduction

The introduction should tell the reader what to expect in the essay. The introduction should make clear to the reader the focus of the essay, the scope of the research, in particular an indication of the sources to be used, and an insight into the line of argument to be taken. 

While students should have a sense of the direction and key focus of their essay, it is sometimes advisable to finalize the introduction once the body of the essay is complete.

4. Required Body of the Essay  (research, analysis, discussion, and evaluation)

The main task is writing the body of the essay, which should be presented in the form of a reasoned argument. The form of this varies with the subject of the essay but as the argument develops it should be clear to the reader what relevant evidence has been discovered, where/how it has been discovered and how it supports the argument. In some subjects, for example, the sciences, sub-headings within the main body of the essay will help the reader to understand the argument (and will also help the student to keep on track). In structuring their extended essay, students must take into consideration the expected conventions of the subject in which their extended essay is registered. 

Once the main body of the essay is complete, it is possible to finalize the introduction (which tells the reader what to expect) and the conclusion (which says what has been achieved, including notes of any limitations and any questions that have not been resolved). 

Any information that is important to the argument  must not  be included in appendices or footnotes/endnotes. The examiner  will not  read notes or appendices, so an essay that is not complete in itself will be compromised across the assessment criteria.

5. Required Conclusion

The conclusion says what has been achieved, including notes of any limitations and any questions that have not been resolved. While students might draw conclusions throughout the essay based on their findings, it is important that there is a final, summative conclusion at the end. This conclusion(s) must relate to the research question posed.

6.  Required References & Bibliography

Students should use their chosen style of academic referencing as soon as they start writing. That way they are less likely to forget to include a citation. It is also easier than trying to add references at a later stage. For more information on this, refer to the guidelines in the IB document  Effective citing and referencing.

Writing the essay takes time but if students have used their Researcher's reflection space and reflection sessions in a meaningful way they should be well prepared to develop their arguments.

Extended Essay - Examples & Exemplars

• Essays from May 2018 with IB marks and commentaries
• Assessed Student Work & Commentary IB-provided. "Student sample extended essays, corresponding marks and comments from senior examiners are available for the following Diploma Programme disciplines. Please note that in light of not having authentic RPPFs to accompany these essays, they are marked against criteria A – D only, for a total of 28 possible marks. Following the first assessment session in 2018, exemplars will be refreshed with authentic sample material." more... less... Biology English Economics History Studies in language and literature Language acquisition Mathematics Psychology Visual arts World studies extended essay (WSEE)
• Excellenet Extended Essays Concordian GoogleDoc
• EngA1_Othello EE Othello 2018 From inThinking.net Click the link to see the score and evaluation.
• Fifty (50) More Excellent Extended Essays DVD by International Baccalaureate Call Number: HS DVD 808.4 ISBN: 9781906345600 Publication Date: 2011 1 DVD-ROM (1:33 min.)

Past CIS Extended Essays

Available in the library behind the desk are file folders of past Extended Essays by Concordian students and IB EE Exemplars. Feel free to browse the papers which must be kept in the library.

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Extended Essay

• Mathematics
• Studies in language and literature
• World studies extended essay
• Visual arts
• Language Acquisition

Psychology Sample A

Extended Essay: Exemplar Commentary
Subject	Psychology	If applicable, theme for WSEE
If applicable, category for language essays		If applicable, subjects used for WSEE
Title of essay	Nature Versus Nurture in the Origins of Prejudice
Essay number	A	Examination session	May 2014
Assessment of extended essay
Criteria	Mark awarded	Commentary
A: Focus and method [6]	4	The topic is effectively identified and explained. The Research question is clearly stated and focused. The research relates to the Research question and is applied to an informed debate (focus). However, the essay methodology is not described and the selection not explained in the introduction.
B: Knowledge and understanding [6]	5	Knowledge and understanding are demonstrated through the confident use of psychological terminology and concepts, relevant selection, and the sound use of source materials applicable to the Research question.
C: Critical thinking [12]	9	The majority of research is consistently appropriate and relevant to the Research question. The analysis is good—less relevant material only marginally detracts from the overall analysis. Conclusions to points are usually supported by evidence. Assertions supported by methodologically evaluated research findings, contributing to informed discussion of the Research question, although evaluation is not always balanced.
D: Presentation [4]	4	Formal presentation meets the requirements for top band marks.
E: Engagement [6]	3	The candidate has clearly learnt a lot from this process but has not really expressed this in a meaningful way on their RPPF. There is some insight into their learning.
Total marks awarded	25/34	There is a well-constructed response using a range of relevant resources, demonstrating sound understanding of the topic and RQ. Focus is largely maintained throughout essay despite no mention of essay methodology in the introduction.

Psychology Sample B

Extended Essay: Exemplar Commentary
Subject	Psychology	If applicable, theme for WSEE
If applicable, category for language essays		If applicable, subjects used for WSEE
Title of essay	Changes in Intelligence
Essay number	B	Examination session	May 2014
Assessment of extended essay
Criteria	Mark awarded	Commentary
A: Focus and method [6]	4	In the introduction the topic is identified and explained and the Research question clearly worded. However, connections to the Research question are only occasionally offered throughout the essay, impacting on focus. The lack of a description of essay methodology and why it was selected contributes to the lack of explicit focus.
B: Knowledge and understanding [6]	3	Knowledge and understanding of source materials is largely sound and the selection of material is usually relevant. However, the use of specialist terminology is not always accurate, indicating some problems in knowledge of the subject. Additionally, there are problems with clarity impacting the demonstration of knowledge and understanding.
C: Critical thinking [12]	5	There is a limited application of resources with some appropriate evaluation, but more is required. The argument explains the research, but the reasoning contains gaps. The summative conclusion needs more focus on the Research question’s “To what extent…?”
D: Presentation [4]	1	The structure is largely appropriate but there are serious citation/referencing problems. Under the new requirements this essay must be referred as a possible case of academic misconduct due to incorrect and inconsistent citing and referencing.
E: Engagement [6] (not included)		The assessment of an accompanying RPPF will affect the overall mark awarded and the grade achieved.
Total marks awarded	13/28	There is a somewhat descriptive account with insufficient evaluation, most of which lacks balance, ie a consideration of both strengths and limitations before accepting the results of research. The confusion over the accurate identification of research methodologies may have been avoided with a fuller reading of sources. Please note: as a result of modifying existing extended essays for illustrative purposes, not all exemplars have an accompanying RPPF for assessment under criterion E (this is a mandatory element for all essays as of 2018). As a result, this essay has been marked out of 28 rather than 34.

Psychology Sample C

Extended Essay: Exemplar Commentary
Subject	Psychology	If applicable, theme for WSEE
If applicable, category for language essays		If applicable, subjects used for WSEE
Title of essay	Adolescents and Social Anxiety
Essay number	C	Examination session	May 2014
Assessment of extended essay
Criteria	Mark awarded	Commentary
A: Focus and method [6]	1	It is unclear which of the two formulations is the Research question. No essay methodology is identified, and choice of approach and resources is not explained. There is very minimal commentary or linkage to the Research question throughout the essay. The topic outline lacks clarity and the Research question is too broad in scope for the word limit.
B: Knowledge and understanding [6]	2	There is a lack of appropriate empirical research and some lack of clarity in the outlines of studies which have been included. There are inaccuracies in the use of subject-specific terminology and also some usage which indicates a lack of understanding of concepts and demonstrates limited knowledge and understanding.
C: Critical thinking [12]	2	The application of research is limited. The essay adopts a descriptive approach, which makes no attempt at the required analysis and evaluation. The argument lacks clarity and is superficial, with the summative conclusion not focusing on the Research question (social anxiety).
D: Presentation [4]	0	There is poor formal presentation, with inappropriate style, a non-standard “Contents” page and “References” section, many citations are omitted and listed references are uncited. Under the new requirements this essay must be referred as a possible case of academic misconduct due to incorrect and inconsistent citing and referencing.
E: Engagement [6] (not included)		The assessment of an accompanying RPPF will affect the overall mark awarded and the grade achieved.
Total marks awarded	4/28	The choice of a dysfunctional behavioural topic is not recommended in the psychology section of the Extended essay guide. The informal approach and lack of relevant sources suggest a lack of the detailed research and planning that was required before beginning the writing of this essay. Although the topic must be of interest to the candidate, discussion with the supervisor and reference to the EE guide are required before committing to a RQ. Please note: as a result of modifying existing extended essays for illustrative purposes, not all exemplars have an accompanying RPPF for assessment under criterion E (this is a mandatory element for all essays as of 2018). As a result, this essay has been marked out of 28 rather than 34.

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IB Extended Essay: Assessment Criteria

• Research Questions
• Past Essays
• Notes & Outlines
• Works Cited Page
• In-Text Citations
• Assessment Criteria
• Reflections
• Supervisor Info
• Net Valley Library This link opens in a new window

Score Descriptors for each Criterion:

• A - Focus and Method
• B - Knowledge and Understanding
• C - Critical Thinking
• D - Presentation
• E - Engagement

Printable: Full Rubric  for all subjects

To view details for your SUBJECT, open the correct page below.

• Choose "Interpreting the EE Assessment Criteria" on the sidebar to see how to score well in YOUR subject area

Language & literature (language A)

Language acquisition (language B)

Mathematics

Visual Arts

World Studies

Business Management

Grade Boundaries

What's Expected?

• A: Focus/Method
• B: Knowledge
• C: Critical Thinking
• D: Presentation
• E: Engagement
• A: Focus and Method (6 marks)
• B: Knowledge and Understanding (6 marks)
• C: Critical Thinking (12 marks)
• D: Presentation (4 marks)
• E: Engagement (6 marks)
• Total marks possible: 34 (see grade boundaries below)
• Printable:  Full Rubric
• Printable: A3 size with details
• Printable:  Details for each criterion , via the Oxford guide

Criterion A:  Focus and Method (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion focuses on the topic, the research question and the methodology. It assesses the explanation of the focus of the research (this includes the topic and the research question), how the research will be undertaken, and how the focus is maintained throughout the essay.

Questions to ask:  

• Does this essay meet the requirements for the subject for which you are registering it?
• Is your research question stated as a question?
• Have you explained how your research question relates to the subject that you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you given an insight into why your area of study is important?
• Is your research question feasible within the scope of the task? Could your research question be “answered” or it is too vague?
• Did you refer to your research question throughout the essay (not only in the introduction and conclusion)?
• Did you explain why you selected your methodology?
• Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?
• If you stated a particular methodology in the introduction of your essay, or specific sources, have you used them?
• Are there any references listed in the bibliography that were not directly cited in the text?

(Source: Susan Trower, via West Sound Academy)

Criterion B:  Knowledge and Understanding (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which the research relates to the subject area/discipline used to explore the research question; or in the case of the world studies extended essay, the issue addressed and the two disciplinary perspectives applied; and additionally, the way in which this knowledge and understanding is demonstrated through the use of appropriate terminology and concepts.

• Have you explained how your research question relates to a specific subject you selected for the extended essay?
• Have you used relevant terminology and concepts throughout your essay as they relate to your particular area of research?
• Is it clear that the sources you are using are relevant and appropriate to your research question?
• Do you have a range of sources, or have you only relied on one particular type, for example internet sources?
• Is there a reason why you might not have a range? Is this justified?

(Source: Oxford EE manual, p. 110)

Criterion C:  Critical Thinking (12 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which critical thinking skills have been used to analyze and evaluate the research undertaken.

• Have you made links between your results and data collected and your research question?
• If you included data or information that is not directly related to your research question have you explained its importance?
• Are your conclusions supported by your data?
• If you found unexpected information or data have you discussed its importance?
• Have you provided a critical evaluation of the methods you selected?
• Have you considered the reliability of your sources (peer-reviewed journals, internet, and so on)?
• Have you mentioned and evaluated the significance of possible errors that may have occurred in your research?
• Are all your suggestions of errors or improvements relevant?
• Have you evaluated your research question?
• Have you compared your results or findings with any other sources?
• Is there an argument that is clear and easy to follow and directly linked to answering your research question, and which is supported by evidence? Are there other possible methods that could be used or applied to answer your research question? How might this change the direction of your research?

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p. 111)

Handy Links:

• Presentation One Pager  via Catalina Bordoy
• Presentation Checklist
• Sample Title page   (see below - top half of the page)

Criterion D:  Presentation ( 4 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the extent to which the presentation follows the standard format expected for academic writing and the extent to which this aids effective communication.

• Have you read and understood the presentation requirements of the extended essay?
• Have you chosen a font that will be easy for examiners to read on-screen?
• Is your essay double-spaced and size 12 font?
• Are the title and research question mentioned on the cover page?
• Are all pages numbered?
• Have you prepared a correct table of contents?
• Do the page numbers in the table of contents match the page numbers in the text?
• Is your essay subdivided into correct sub-sections, if this is applicable to the subject?
• Are all figures and tables properly numbered and labelled?
• Does your bibliography contain only the sources cited in the text?
• Did you use the same reference system throughout the essay?
• Does the essay have less than 4,000 words?
• Is all the material presented in the appendices relevant and necessary?
• Have you proofread the text for spelling or grammar errors?

Criterion E: Engagement

• Three reflections (best after meeting with your supervisor)
• 500 words TOTAL (100 + 150 + 250?)
• Reflections are done in Managebac on your Reflection space
• See the "Reflections" tab above for prompts to write about

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p.135)

(Source: Oxford EE Manual p.133)

• Sample Reflections
• Full chapter on Reflections from the Oxford Guide

Criterion E:  Engagement (6 points)

What It Means:   This criterion assesses the student’s engagement with their research focus and the research process. It will be applied by the examiner at the end of the assessment of the essay, after considering the student’s RPPF (Reflections on planning and progress form).

• Have you demonstrated your engagement with your research topic and the research process?
• Have you highlighted challenges you faced and how you overcame them?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your intellectual and skills development?
• Will the examiner get a sense of your creativity and intellectual initiative?
• For prompts to deepen your reflections, go  here  and then to the bottom of the page
• Presentation Quick Guide
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• Last Updated: Apr 9, 2024 9:39 AM
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Essay Writing

An essay is a formal piece of writing that methodically analyses and evaluates a topic or issue. It is designed to give a reasoned, thoughtful and objective opinion on the issue, and is a formal piece of writing which typically includes an introduction, body and conclusion. A detailed description of an essay structure (provided by the State Library of Victoria) and an example of an excellent psychology essay (provided by the International Baccalaureate) are outlined below, and further information can be found in the links (here):

• Research Scaffold

Introduction

Your introduction should:

• establish and explain your argument
• define any complex words in the question
• give any background information needed for your argument to make sense
• be one or two paragraphs long.

The best introductions quickly establish the argument and grab the reader's attention. Although all introductions need to follow a similar formula, there are ways to make your introduction a bit different and more interesting.  (Ergo, 2016)

There are usually 3–6 paragraphs in the body of an essay, and each paragraph should:

• present one new idea that adds to your argument
• start with a topic sentence summarising the main idea for discussion
• follow with an example and a brief explanation of how the point adds to your argument
• be connected by a linking sentence describing the relationship between the two paragraphs. ( Ergo, 2016 )

The first sentence in each paragraph is called a topic sentence. Topic sentences:

• explain the point you're going to make in the paragraph
• are clear and concise
• link back to your argument and introduction
• build on the points made in the previous paragraphs
• when read together, summarise your argument.

If you recorded your key points in your essay plan, you've already written your topic sentences. Take your key points, write them in a single sentence and then write a paragraph discussing each one. ( Ergo, 2016 ).

Your conclusion is the last paragraph of your essay and the last thing your reader will read, so it needs to be memorable. A conclusion:

• links back to the introduction
• summarises your key points
• restates your main idea
• should never contain any new information.

Once you've covered these basic elements, think about the ‘So what?' factor – whether your essay stands out from the crowd. Ask yourself:

Why should anyone care about what I've written in this essay? 

How do my ideas add to what we know about the topic?

If you can answer these questions, you're on your way to a great essay.  ( Ergo, 2016 )

Introduction - Example

Autism is a common disorder affecting 1 child in every 166 (Centres for disease control and prevention (CDC), 2006). According to the American Psychiatric association, it is defined by impairment in social interaction and communication skills, as well as an occurrence of repetitive behaviour (APA, 2000). A child diagnosed with autism can debatably obtain normal functioning through measures of therapy, and thus recover from the disorder. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is a widely known treatment for autism. The goal of ABA intervention is to enable an autistic child to best function independently and successfully in various environments (Green, Taylor, Luce, & Krantz, 2005). ABA is most successful in combination with early intervention. At a younger age, the brain is at a more adaptable state. According to research, ABA in unison with early intervention allows, in most cases, for a decrease in the severity of autistic characteristics. The extent to which Applied Behaviour Analysis is effective in treating autism is discussed.

Body - First Paragraph Example

Autism is classified as a pervasive development disorder(PDD) due to three common features that appear during early stages of life. These three characteristics are “impaired reciprocal social interaction, impaired communication skills, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behaviour, interests and activities” (Berkell, 1999, p.7). The diagnostic features of autism are best described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-IV-TR. At least six of the criteria must be present for the diagnosis of autism. Of these six, additional requirements exist in each area. Impairment in social interaction is one key feature of autism. This can be marked by abnormal nonverbal behaviours, such as eye contact, facial expression, and body gesture or postures. Failure to develop appropriate peer relationships for age and development, and lack of spontaneous sharing of interests or achievements are two additional examples that demonstrate impaired social interaction. Furthermore, a lack of “social or emotional reciprocity” mark this impairment (APA, 2000, p.70). A child must have at least two of these social criterions in order to be considered autistic (APA, 2000).

Conclusion - Example

Applied Behaviour Analysis appears to be a therapy that works well with the diagnosis of autism. Awareness of case studies, along with personal success stories, can give hope to parents and doctors. Although ABA should never be viewed as a cure, it can help to alleviate characteristics of autism. Therapists and parents must be dedicated to the case at hand, and if so, some improvement can be made. ABA is a recommendable therapy because of the chance of recovery, which is every parent’s dream.

2016-2025 IB Extended Essay: Sample IB EE's

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How to Write a Psychology Essay

Saul McLeod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul McLeod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Learn about our Editorial Process

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

On This Page:

Before you write your essay, it’s important to analyse the task and understand exactly what the essay question is asking. Your lecturer may give you some advice – pay attention to this as it will help you plan your answer.

Next conduct preliminary reading based on your lecture notes. At this stage, it’s not crucial to have a robust understanding of key theories or studies, but you should at least have a general “gist” of the literature.

After reading, plan a response to the task. This plan could be in the form of a mind map, a summary table, or by writing a core statement (which encompasses the entire argument of your essay in just a few sentences).

After writing your plan, conduct supplementary reading, refine your plan, and make it more detailed.

It is tempting to skip these preliminary steps and write the first draft while reading at the same time. However, reading and planning will make the essay writing process easier, quicker, and ensure a higher quality essay is produced.

Components of a Good Essay

Now, let us look at what constitutes a good essay in psychology. There are a number of important features.

• Global Structure – structure the material to allow for a logical sequence of ideas. Each paragraph / statement should follow sensibly from its predecessor. The essay should “flow”. The introduction, main body and conclusion should all be linked.
• Each paragraph should comprise a main theme, which is illustrated and developed through a number of points (supported by evidence).
• Knowledge and Understanding – recognize, recall, and show understanding of a range of scientific material that accurately reflects the main theoretical perspectives.
• Critical Evaluation – arguments should be supported by appropriate evidence and/or theory from the literature. Evidence of independent thinking, insight, and evaluation of the evidence.
• Quality of Written Communication – writing clearly and succinctly with appropriate use of paragraphs, spelling, and grammar. All sources are referenced accurately and in line with APA guidelines.

In the main body of the essay, every paragraph should demonstrate both knowledge and critical evaluation.

There should also be an appropriate balance between these two essay components. Try to aim for about a 60/40 split if possible.

Most students make the mistake of writing too much knowledge and not enough evaluation (which is the difficult bit).

It is best to structure your essay according to key themes. Themes are illustrated and developed through a number of points (supported by evidence).

Choose relevant points only, ones that most reveal the theme or help to make a convincing and interesting argument.

Knowledge and Understanding

Remember that an essay is simply a discussion / argument on paper. Don’t make the mistake of writing all the information you know regarding a particular topic.

You need to be concise, and clearly articulate your argument. A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, a paragraph no unnecessary sentences.

Each paragraph should have a purpose / theme, and make a number of points – which need to be support by high quality evidence. Be clear why each point is is relevant to the argument. It would be useful at the beginning of each paragraph if you explicitly outlined the theme being discussed (.e.g. cognitive development, social development etc.).

Try not to overuse quotations in your essays. It is more appropriate to use original content to demonstrate your understanding.

Psychology is a science so you must support your ideas with evidence (not your own personal opinion). If you are discussing a theory or research study make sure you cite the source of the information.

Note this is not the author of a textbook you have read – but the original source / author(s) of the theory or research study.

For example:

Bowlby (1951) claimed that mothering is almost useless if delayed until after two and a half to three years and, for most children, if delayed till after 12 months, i.e. there is a critical period.

Maslow (1943) stated that people are motivated to achieve certain needs. When one need is fulfilled a person seeks to fullfil the next one, and so on.

As a general rule, make sure there is at least one citation (i.e. name of psychologist and date of publication) in each paragraph.

Remember to answer the essay question. Underline the keywords in the essay title. Don’t make the mistake of simply writing everything you know of a particular topic, be selective. Each paragraph in your essay should contribute to answering the essay question.

Critical Evaluation

In simple terms, this means outlining the strengths and limitations of a theory or research study.

There are many ways you can critically evaluate:

Methodological evaluation of research

Is the study valid / reliable ? Is the sample biased, or can we generalize the findings to other populations? What are the strengths and limitations of the method used and data obtained?

Be careful to ensure that any methodological criticisms are justified and not trite.

Rather than hunting for weaknesses in every study; only highlight limitations that make you doubt the conclusions that the authors have drawn – e.g., where an alternative explanation might be equally likely because something hasn’t been adequately controlled.

Compare or contrast different theories

Outline how the theories are similar and how they differ. This could be two (or more) theories of personality / memory / child development etc. Also try to communicate the value of the theory / study.

Debates or perspectives

Refer to debates such as nature or nurture, reductionism vs. holism, or the perspectives in psychology . For example, would they agree or disagree with a theory or the findings of the study?

What are the ethical issues of the research?

Does a study involve ethical issues such as deception, privacy, psychological or physical harm?

Gender bias

If research is biased towards men or women it does not provide a clear view of the behavior that has been studied. A dominantly male perspective is known as an androcentric bias.

Cultural bias

Is the theory / study ethnocentric? Psychology is predominantly a white, Euro-American enterprise. In some texts, over 90% of studies have US participants, who are predominantly white and middle class.

Does the theory or study being discussed judge other cultures by Western standards?

Animal Research

This raises the issue of whether it’s morally and/or scientifically right to use animals. The main criterion is that benefits must outweigh costs. But benefits are almost always to humans and costs to animals.

Animal research also raises the issue of extrapolation. Can we generalize from studies on animals to humans as their anatomy & physiology is different from humans?

The PEC System

It is very important to elaborate on your evaluation. Don’t just write a shopping list of brief (one or two sentence) evaluation points.

Instead, make sure you expand on your points, remember, quality of evaluation is most important than quantity.

When you are writing an evaluation paragraph, use the PEC system.

• Make your P oint.
• E xplain how and why the point is relevant.
• Discuss the C onsequences / implications of the theory or study. Are they positive or negative?

For Example

• Point: It is argued that psychoanalytic therapy is only of benefit to an articulate, intelligent, affluent minority.
• Explain: Because psychoanalytic therapy involves talking and gaining insight, and is costly and time-consuming, it is argued that it is only of benefit to an articulate, intelligent, affluent minority. Evidence suggests psychoanalytic therapy works best if the client is motivated and has a positive attitude.
• Consequences: A depressed client’s apathy, flat emotional state, and lack of motivation limit the appropriateness of psychoanalytic therapy for depression.

Furthermore, the levels of dependency of depressed clients mean that transference is more likely to develop.

Using Research Studies in your Essays

Research studies can either be knowledge or evaluation.

• If you refer to the procedures and findings of a study, this shows knowledge and understanding.
• If you comment on what the studies shows, and what it supports and challenges about the theory in question, this shows evaluation.

Writing an Introduction

It is often best to write your introduction when you have finished the main body of the essay, so that you have a good understanding of the topic area.

If there is a word count for your essay try to devote 10% of this to your introduction.

Ideally, the introduction should;

Identify the subject of the essay and define the key terms. Highlight the major issues which “lie behind” the question. Let the reader know how you will focus your essay by identifying the main themes to be discussed. “Signpost” the essay’s key argument, (and, if possible, how this argument is structured).

Introductions are very important as first impressions count and they can create a h alo effect in the mind of the lecturer grading your essay. If you start off well then you are more likely to be forgiven for the odd mistake later one.

Writing a Conclusion

So many students either forget to write a conclusion or fail to give it the attention it deserves.

If there is a word count for your essay try to devote 10% of this to your conclusion.

Ideally the conclusion should summarize the key themes / arguments of your essay. State the take home message – don’t sit on the fence, instead weigh up the evidence presented in the essay and make a decision which side of the argument has more support.

Also, you might like to suggest what future research may need to be conducted and why (read the discussion section of journal articles for this).

Don”t include new information / arguments (only information discussed in the main body of the essay).

If you are unsure of what to write read the essay question and answer it in one paragraph.

Points that unite or embrace several themes can be used to great effect as part of your conclusion.

The Importance of Flow

Obviously, what you write is important, but how you communicate your ideas / arguments has a significant influence on your overall grade. Most students may have similar information / content in their essays, but the better students communicate this information concisely and articulately.

When you have finished the first draft of your essay you must check if it “flows”. This is an important feature of quality of communication (along with spelling and grammar).

This means that the paragraphs follow a logical order (like the chapters in a novel). Have a global structure with themes arranged in a way that allows for a logical sequence of ideas. You might want to rearrange (cut and paste) paragraphs to a different position in your essay if they don”t appear to fit in with the essay structure.

To improve the flow of your essay make sure the last sentence of one paragraph links to first sentence of the next paragraph. This will help the essay flow and make it easier to read.

Finally, only repeat citations when it is unclear which study / theory you are discussing. Repeating citations unnecessarily disrupts the flow of an essay.

Referencing

The reference section is the list of all the sources cited in the essay (in alphabetical order). It is not a bibliography (a list of the books you used).

In simple terms every time you cite/refer to a name (and date) of a psychologist you need to reference the original source of the information.

If you have been using textbooks this is easy as the references are usually at the back of the book and you can just copy them down. If you have been using websites, then you may have a problem as they might not provide a reference section for you to copy.

References need to be set out APA style :

Author, A. A. (year). Title of work . Location: Publisher.

Journal Articles

Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (year). Article title. Journal Title, volume number (issue number), page numbers

A simple way to write your reference section is use Google scholar . Just type the name and date of the psychologist in the search box and click on the “cite” link.

Next, copy and paste the APA reference into the reference section of your essay.

Once again, remember that references need to be in alphabetical order according to surname.