Exploration Compass: Free IB Math IA Planner & Topic Generator
Exploration Compass is a guided planning tool for IB Mathematics Analysis & Approaches (AA) and Applications & Interpretation (AI) Internal Assessments. Navigate from your initial topic idea to a fully structured exploration plan you can actually write from.
How IB Math IA Planner Guides Your Math IA
Step 1: Topic & Research Question (RQ): Select a core topic area to explore fill-in-the-blank RQ templates and real-world contexts tailored for Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL).
Step 2: Introduction & Aim: Define your mathematical rationale, personal engagement, and clear exploration goals to score high on Criterion A and C.
Step 3 & 4: Data, Method & Analysis: Outline data collection steps, mathematical techniques (calculus, statistics, matrices, modeling), and visualization strategies.
Step 5: Reflection: Structure critical evaluations, limitations, and practical applications required for Criterion E.
Step 6: Complete IA Roadmap: Export a copyable, custom outline to jumpstart your writing process.
🎓 Academic Integrity Note: Exploration Compass plans—it doesn’t write. Every scaffold, suggestion, and question here is a starting point. Your research, data, calculations, and reflections need to be genuinely your own to satisfy IB assessment criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions About IB Math IAs
What is the Exploration Compass?
Exploration Compass is an interactive planning tool designed specifically for International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme students taking Math AA or Math AI. It simplifies the internal assessment process by breaking down topic selection, research question formulation, methodology planning, and reflection into six structured steps.
How do I choose a good IB Math IA topic?
A strong IB Math IA topic balances personal engagement with appropriate mathematical depth. Choose an area of personal interest—such as sports, economics, music, or physics—and apply mathematical concepts aligned with your syllabus (SL or HL). Exploration Compass provides curated topic ideas and research question templates to help you get started.
What is the difference between Math AA and Math AI IAs?
- Math Analysis & Approaches (AA): Focuses on analytical methods, calculus, algebraic proofs, and abstract mathematical concepts.
- Math Applications & Interpretation (AI): Focuses on real-world modeling, statistics, matrices, probability, and technological applications.
Both courses are assessed using the same five IB criteria (Presentation, Mathematical Communication, Personal Engagement, Reflection, and Use of Mathematics).
How long should an IB Math Internal Assessment be?
The IB recommends that a Math IA be 12 to 20 pages long, including diagrams, calculations, and references. Focus on clarity, concise writing, and relevant mathematical development rather than hitting a maximum page limit.
Can I save my progress in Exploration Compass?
Yes! Exploration Compass autosaves your progress locally in your browser as you work through the six steps. Once completed, Step 6 generates a complete, copyable writing roadmap that you can download or copy to your clipboard to start writing your paper.