IB History Student Resources

Your Complete Companion to the IB History Internal Assessment

Feeling overwhelmed by your History IA? Not sure how to choose a topic, analyze your sources, or organize your argument? You’re in the right place. Our Step-by-Step IB History IA Guide simplifies the process so you can write a high-scoring IA with clarity and confidence.

What’s Inside?

Built for IB Students
Designed by experienced IB History teachers who know what examiners look for—and what common mistakes to avoid.

Covers SL and HL
Whether you’re aiming for 25% of your SL grade or 20% of your HL grade, this guide helps you craft a compelling, source-based investigation.

Step-by-Step Support
From narrowing your topic to evaluating sources, developing arguments, and writing each section—this guide walks you through it all with clear examples.

Real Historical Thinking
Learn how to think and write like a historian by integrating key concepts like cause, consequence, and perspective throughout your analysis.

Criterion-by-Criterion Breakdown
Understand exactly how your History IA will be assessed. We explain each criterion in student-friendly terms with dos and don’ts, sample wording, and reflection prompts.

Why It Works

Created by IB examiners and History educators
Aligned with the latest IB assessment guide
Packed with sentence starters, research tips, and sample questions
Designed to reduce confusion and improve structure
Written in clear, accessible language that real students can use

Whether you’re just beginning or refining your final draft, this guide is your go-to resource for writing a thoughtful, well-supported, and high-scoring IB History IA.

For more information about IB History, visit ibo.org.