Up to 3 points
Extended essay + TOK
Together, the two core components can add up to 3 points to your Diploma, according to an official matrix that crosses the grade of each.
IB · Extended Essay · Mathematics
Your maths extended essay,
without losing your way
We choose a topic that can carry 4,000 words, turn it into a strong research question and get you to the deadline calmly. You write the essay; I help you think better and make sure the mathematics is right.
What is at stake
More than a long piece of writing
Failing condition
An E can cost you the Diploma
A grade E in the extended essay or in TOK is a failing condition: even if everything else goes well, the Diploma is not awarded.
Your first research
What you will use at university
Posing a question, finding sources, arguing and defending a result in 4,000 words is exactly what any degree asks of you later.
How we work
Four steps, from idea to submission
01
Topic
We start from what interests you and check it has enough mathematics and data or sources within reach.
02
Question
We turn the topic into a specific, focused research question that can actually be answered.
03
Development
Structure, method and mathematics: we check that every step is justified and the notation is correct.
04
Review
We go through your draft against the IB criteria so you know which marks you earn and which you lose.
You write the essay and your school supervisor oversees it, as the IB requires. I don’t write a single sentence for you: I help you think, test ideas and make the mathematics work.
What the IB assesses
34 marks, five criteria
A · Focus and method 6A clear question and a method suited to answering it.
B · Knowledge and understanding 6Context, terminology and sources used well.
C · Critical thinking 12Analysis, argument and evaluation: the criterion that weighs most.
D · Presentation 4Structure, format and referencing.
E · Engagement 6Your process: the reflections with your supervisor.
Criteria and marks follow the IB extended essay guide. Your school will confirm the version that applies to you and the submission dates.
Timeline
A sensible order
Each school sets its own dates. This is the order that usually works; starting late is still possible, but the topic has to be settled quickly.
- Choose a topic and a first questionAs soon as possible
- Read, gather sources or data and test the mathematicsUntil summer
- First complete draftStart of year 2
- Reflections with your supervisor and final interviewThroughout
- Revision and submissionYour school’s deadline
No commitment
In 20 minutes you’ll know if your idea can carry 4,000 words
- You message me on WhatsApp with your subject, your year and whatever idea you have, even a single sentence.
- We talk for 20 minutes, by video call or in Aldaia: we see whether the topic has enough mathematics and what is missing.
- I suggest a plan up to the deadline. If it suits you, we start.
Who helps you
Álvaro López
I teach at Universidad Europea de Valencia, on the Mathematics, Physics and Data Science degrees. Before that I taught IB Mathematics Analysis and Approaches HL at an international school in Valencia.
BSc in Mathematics (UV) · MSc in Artificial Intelligence (UPM)
To start on your own
Read this before you write to me
20 maths extended essay topics → Choosing a topic for the maths IA →
Frequently asked questions
Before you start
Will you write my extended essay?
No, and be wary of anyone who offers: the IB requires the work to be yours and a ghost-written essay can end in disqualification. What I do is help you choose the topic, shape the research question, check the mathematics is correct and review your drafts against the IB criteria.
Do you only help with maths essays?
My specialty is maths extended essays and the mathematical parts of physics, economics or computer science ones. If your topic is in another subject, tell me which and I’ll be clear about how far I can help.
When should I start?
As early as possible. Choosing the topic and the question takes the most time; once that is settled, the rest falls into place. If you are already behind, message me and we’ll see what can be done.
How much does it cost?
It depends on how many sessions you need and where you are in the process. I’ll tell you in the free orientation call or on WhatsApp, with no commitment.
Can it be done online?
Yes, by video call from anywhere, in English or Spanish. Also in person in Aldaia (Valencia) if that suits you better.
What if my school supervisor already guides me?
That’s good: the IB requires you to have one, and their role is to oversee your work. I don’t replace them; I add time and the mathematical depth that a supervisor from another subject sometimes can’t give.