🌍 IB reference page
Topic-grouped study map for IB Maths — Analysis & Approaches (AA) and Applications & Interpretation (AI) — covering SL and HL with the exam habits that matter most.
5
topic areas
SL / HL
two levels
20%
internal assessment
Four courses
AA SL
Pure focus, 2 papers, 80% exam
AA HL
Deep pure + proof, 3 papers, 80% exam
AI SL
Applied focus, GDC-heavy, 2 papers
AI HL
Modelling + stats, 3 papers, 80% exam
Topics by unit
Sequences and binomial expansion appear in nearly every paper. For HL, complex numbers in polar and exponential form are reliably tested in Paper 1.
Transformation of graphs is tested in both SL and HL. Know how each parameter (a, h, k) shifts or stretches — sketch quickly before answering.
Vector questions often span several marks — set up the equation systematically. IB trig equations require all solutions in a given interval.
GDC is allowed on Paper 2 — know how to find binomial and normal probabilities directly from your calculator. Show the calculator input in your working for method marks.
Paper 1 is no-GDC — practice differentiating and integrating without a calculator. Integration by inspection and recognising standard forms are faster than substitution on paper.
Commonly searched questions
Past papers are the best revision tool — work through them by topic first, then by full paper closer to exams. For HL, Paper 3 is unique and needs separate practice since it tests open-ended investigation skills rather than standard procedures. Always write the formula before substituting — IB mark schemes allocate marks to that step.
Official IB past papers are available through your school's IB coordinator or the IB store. Revision Village is the most popular third-party platform with topic-sorted past paper questions for AA and AI. Many schools also share past papers through internal drives.
IB Maths AA HL is considered one of the hardest IB subjects. It covers university-level calculus (Maclaurin series, differential equations), complex numbers, and proof by induction. The average score is around 4–5 out of 7. Students targeting 7 typically spend 8–10 hours per week on the subject.
Choose AA if you plan to study Maths, Physics, Engineering, or Economics at university — it is more widely accepted for technical degree entry. Choose AI if you plan to study Biology, Psychology, Business, or Social Sciences — it emphasises statistics and real-world modelling with more GDC use.
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