IB History: the syllabus, exam papers and how to write for the mark bands
A guide to IB History: the prescribed subjects and world history topics, HL vs SL, Papers 1-3, the Internal Assessment and how essay structure and source work earn marks.
IB History is a group 3 subject that develops argument, source analysis and comparison across periods and regions. Its marks are earned through disciplined essay structure and precise handling of sources — not through recounting events. Success in the Diploma Programme depends on writing analytically to the mark bands. For one-to-one support see IB History tutoring.
Syllabus structure
The course combines a prescribed subject (studied through sources for Paper 1), two world history topics (for Paper 2) and, at HL, an in-depth regional option (for Paper 3). Students build both breadth across the world history topics and depth in the HL regional study.
HL vs SL
SL students sit Papers 1 and 2; HL students add Paper 3, an extended regional depth study answered in three essays. HL therefore demands both wider coverage and deeper knowledge of one region.
The exam papers
- Paper 1 — source analysis: structured questions on a prescribed subject, testing comprehension, value/limitations of sources and using sources with own knowledge.
- Paper 2 — comparative essays: two essays across the world history topics, rewarding thematic comparison across examples.
- Paper 3 (HL) — regional depth: three essays requiring detailed knowledge and sustained argument.
The Internal Assessment
The History IA is a historical investigation on a question of the student's choice, including an evaluation of sources and a reflection on the historian's methods. A focused, answerable question and genuine analysis of source value beat a broad narrative.
Writing for the mark bands
- Argue a thesis: every essay needs a clear, sustained argument that addresses the exact question.
- Deploy specific evidence: named events, dates and figures used to support analysis, not as a list.
- For Paper 1, master value and limitations: assess origin, purpose and content of sources precisely.
- Manage time and word rate: History exams reward a high, sustained analytical writing pace — practise timed essays.