IB Maths Extended Essay

AI tools and academic integrity in your maths EE

Your Extended Essay must be your own work. Supervisors and the IB look for a consistent voice, a research process they have seen, and understanding you can show in your reflection sessions. Here is how to use help, including AI, without putting your Diploma at risk. Your school's policy comes first.

Usually fine, if your school allows it and you acknowledge it

  • Asking an AI tool or a person to explain a mathematical idea you then check in a reliable source.
  • Using software to compute, plot or check results you understand and explain.
  • Getting feedback that points out problems, without supplying new wording.
  • Using checklists, planners and self-checks.

Misconduct

  • Submitting text, proofs or analysis written by someone else or by an AI tool as your own.
  • Closely paraphrasing a source without citing it.
  • Using AI-generated sources or results you have not checked (some are invented).
  • Having someone rewrite your sections for you.

How to acknowledge a tool

Say which tool, when and for what, in the way your school asks, for example in a note or the references. Keep a record in your research log as you go: it also helps you in your reflection sessions.

How our EE tools are built

  • The research-question builder rearranges your own words and runs checks; it does not suggest topics or wording.
  • The EE planner stores your plan, dated research log and meeting notes: evidence of your process.
  • The feedback tool comments on what you wrote against one criterion at a time. It refuses requests to write text and removes any reply line that hands over wording.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use ChatGPT or another AI tool for my EE?

Only as your school's policy and the IB's academic integrity rules allow, and any use must be acknowledged. Never submit AI-written text, proofs or analysis as your own.

Will my supervisor know if the essay is not my own work?

Supervisors see your work develop through the reflection sessions and meetings, and they confirm that the essay is your own. Keep a research log and you will have the evidence of your process.

IB Math Revision is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by the IB. Criterion descriptions are our own summaries; for the official wording see the IB's Extended essay guide (your EE coordinator has it).