24 June 2026 · 6 min read
IB Internal Assessment: Tips That Lift Every IA
Internal Assessments are worth a large share of your grade in every subject, and they are within your control. The habits that lift an IA are surprisingly similar across subjects. Here they are.
Choose a narrow, answerable question
The single biggest mistake is a question that is too broad. A sharp, focused research question is easier to analyse deeply and almost always scores higher than a vague one.
Plan against the rubric
Every IA has a marking rubric. Read it before you start and structure your work to hit each criterion directly, rather than writing first and hoping it fits.
- Map each section to a rubric criterion
- Leave clear time for analysis and evaluation
Evaluate, do not just describe
Top band IAs weigh evidence, question assumptions, and reach a justified conclusion. Description alone caps your marks, so build evaluation in from the start.
Start early and get feedback
Early drafts get better feedback and lower stress. Wadhwa Institute mentors IAs across subjects, within academic integrity rules. Book a free consultation for structured guidance.
Want a structured plan toward a 7?
Book a free consultationKeep reading