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IB Mathematics: analysis and approaches

IB Maths AA, with and without the calculator.

Practise Paper 1 without technology and Paper 2 with it, and, at HL, Paper 3’s problem solving. Your tutor works through each method with you, one line at a time.

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Find the sum of the first 20 terms of the arithmetic sequence 5, 9, 13, …[3 marks]

This is worth 3 marks. They go for:

  • Identify u₁ = 5 and d = 4 (1 mark)
  • Use S₂₀ = 20 ÷ 2 × (2 × 5 + 19 × 4) (1 mark)
  • S₂₀ = 10 × 86 = 860 (1 mark)

Examiner tip: On Paper 1 there’s no calculator, so show the substitution clearly. It carries the method mark.

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Assessment

How IB Mathematics: analysis and approaches is assessed

SL takes Papers 1 and 2. HL takes Papers 1, 2 and 3. Everyone writes the exploration, worth 20%.

The current course, last assessed in November 2028. A new course is first assessed in 2029.

Standard Level (SL)

  • Paper 1

    No technology. Short-response and extended-response questions

    Time
    1 h 30 min
    Weight
    40%

  • Paper 2

    Technology allowed. Short-response and extended-response questions

    Time
    1 h 30 min
    Weight
    40%

  • Internal assessment: exploration

    A written exploration of a topic you choose

    Time
    15 h in class
    Weight
    20%

Higher Level (HL)

  • Paper 1

    No technology. Short-response and extended-response questions

    Time
    2 h
    Weight
    30%

  • Paper 2

    Technology allowed. Short-response and extended-response questions

    Time
    2 h
    Weight
    30%

  • Paper 3

    Technology allowed. Two extended problem-solving questions

    Time
    1 h
    Weight
    20%

  • Internal assessment: exploration

    A written exploration of a topic you choose

    Time
    15 h in class
    Weight
    20%

The exploration is a piece of mathematics on a topic you choose, worth 20% at SL and HL.

From the official International Baccalaureate syllabus, checked October 2026. Read the syllabus

Syllabus content

What’s on the IB Diploma Maths AA syllabus

  • Number and algebra
  • Functions
  • Geometry and trigonometry
  • Statistics and probability
  • Calculus

Where marks are lost

Common IB Diploma Maths AA mistakes

  • Writing only the answer from your GDC.

    On Paper 2, show what you entered or sketch what the calculator displayed. An answer on its own may get no marks if it’s wrong.

  • Rounding too far.

    The IB wants exact answers, or answers to 3 significant figures, unless the question says otherwise.

  • Leaving out the final step of an induction proof (HL).

    Finish with the concluding sentence: since the statement is true for n = 1, and true for n = k + 1 when it’s true for n = k, it’s true for all n.

Six maths tutors, six ways to learn

Practise past-paper style questions with the exam coach, drill facts before a test with quick revision, or slow down with a step-by-step tutor. Switch any time.

See how each one teaches How the AI tutor works
  • ArjunConcept explainer
  • MiraStep by step
  • KofiExam coach
  • SofiaQuick revision
  • RaviChallenger
  • HanaConfidence builder

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FAQ

IB Diploma Maths AA questions, answered.

It can help you find a focused topic, check your mathematics and understand the criteria. The exploration must be your own work.

Yes. Tell your tutor you’re taking HL and ask for extended problem-solving questions like those on Paper 3.

The details on this page are for the current course, last assessed in November 2028. If you’ll be assessed in 2029 or later, check the new course with your teacher.

Yes. The free plan includes 5 tutor messages and 15 minutes of calls a day. Pro and Max give you more when exams get close.

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More IB Diploma subjects

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