Economics EE Structure

This document outlines advisory guidelines for Extended Essay. AI tools such as Chat GPT,
Claude, and Gemini etc. are permitted SOLELY FOR RESEARCH FEEDBACK AND
BRAINSTORMING PURPOSES, AND MUST NOT BE USED FOR ANY FORM OF
ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT. RQ to be put in header.

Note: comparative essays are always better as they become argumentative and not
DESCRIPTIVE.

Formatting instructions

● RQ as a header should be inserted in the EE.

● Figures should be cited and labelled.
● (Heading 1 font size 16, Subheadings 1 font size 14 and sub heading 2 font size 13, and
content -12, Times new roman, justified)

Before you start

● Remember Essay should be in third person, Do not write I, my, we or me,

● Essays should use formal academic language using appropriate BM terminology.

1. Title Page
• Topic: broad perspective about economic theory related to research question
• Research Question: Explicitly state your focused, narrow and sophisticated research
question. the research question (e.g., “To what extent has the increase in minimum wage
impacted unemployment rates in X region and in a ………… specific time period?”).

● Word Count: Indicate the exact word count, excluding footnotes, appendices,
bibliography, and content page. (Front size 14 and not exceeding 4000 words).

• Subject: Ex: Economics

• Session: May 2025

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2. Table of Contents

• Organization: Include all sections and subsections with corresponding page

numbers.

o Sections to Include

• Introduction (heading 1)
o context
o outline of argument
• Analysis and Discussion (heading 1)
o Economic theory (sub heading 1)
o Primary Data Presentation (sub heading 1)
1. sub headings according to indicators used (sub heading2)
2. Critical Analysis (sub heading 2)
• Conclusion: (Heading 1)
§ limitation (sub heading)
§ Area of future scope (sub heading)
• Bibliography (Heading 1)
§ Books
§ Research papers
§ Journals
§ Websites
• Appendix (heading 1)

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3. Introduction (750–800 words) (Heading 1)

This section should introduce your research question, explain its relevance within economics,
and provide a brief overview of your methodology. The introduction should be split into the
following subsections:

a. Context (150–170 words)

• Explanation: Clearly explain the topic and provide an economic context that includes
relevant theories and previous research. Attack the keywords of the research question to
establish focus.
• Theories: Mention the core economic theories (e.g., supply and demand, labor market
theory, exchange rates) that relate to your research.

b. Background Information (100–130 words)

• Contextual Overview: Provide a brief explanation of the policy, scheme, or issue being
studied. This section should offer enough background to make the rest of the essay
comprehensible.
• Objectives: Clearly state the objectives of the policy or issue and the specific variables
you’ll examine (e.g., inflation rates, unemployment levels, labor productivity).

c. Worthiness (100-130 words)

• Justification: Explain why this research question is worthy of investigation using the
phrase: “This research question is worthy of investigation because...”
• Rewrite the RQ here
• Highlight the significance of the research on a global and academic scale, connecting to
broader economic themes such as Ex: development, poverty reduction, or fiscal policy.
• give a purpose and focus

Choose one

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d. Outline of Argument (120–150 words):

• which aspect, factors or key theories you will be investigating as they appear in the
main body of the Essay.

e. Scope: (50-70 words)

what source material has been used, or statistical tools (correlation,) allowed or critical
interpretations challenged and so on. Stating that your essay utilized websites, books and journals
is not as good as indicating exactly which authors, theories or methods have been used, and give
reasons for using each tool or theories in one or two lines.

f. research methodology: (125-150)

• Research Approach: Describe the research approach used—whether quantitative,

qualitative, or mixed methods—and justify why this approach is appropriate.
• Data Sources: Identify data sources (e.g., government reports, surveys, interviews) and
specify the period under review. A mix of primary and secondary sources is ideal.
• Economic Model: State the economic model or indicator (e.g., demand and supply
curves, elasticity models) you will use to evaluate the data asking sophisticated question.

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 • Limitations: Mention any limitations related to your methodology (e.g., limited
availability of data, reliability of survey responses).
• connect to the discussion in essay met.

4. DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS (Heading)

a) Economic theory (200-250) (sub heading 1)

• Mention the economic theory and its relevance with subject specific terminology

throughout the Essay, include all necessary economic definitions and explanations of

key terms,

• selected theories should help you to answer research question.

b) Primary Data Presentation and Analysis (2200-2350)

(sub heading 1)

This section should include the raw and processed data, followed by a thorough evaluation and
interpretation of the data.

Data Presentation and critical analysis for (5 indicators): (400-470) = 2200-2350

1. Indicator 1 (sub heading 2) (400-470)

• Introduce the Indicator and its relevance to your RQ. (50 words)
• Present tables or graphs that show the data relevant to the research question. All
tables/graphs should be clearly labeled, including units (not included in word count)
• Show processed data (e.g., trends, averages, regression analysis results). Include sample
calculations (regression analysis, correlation calculation, average), if relevant. (Not
included in word count)

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 • Explain the trends seen in your data, referencing specific data points or graphs. Mention
contradictions if any, analyze it in context of research question. (50-70)
• Use economic theory to explain why the trends occurred. For example, how do changes
in minimum wage affect unemployment? (50-70)

Critical Analysis of indicator 1 (sub heading 2) (250-280)

• Comparison with Studies (70-100)

Compare your findings with existing studies or theoretical models. This could involve
citing economists or published research that support or contradict your findings or help
you to answer research questions.

• Comparison with different perspectives (75–100 words)

such as Economic theory Evaluation: Compare your data with the predictions made by
established economic models (e.g., demand-supply models, AD-AS models) and their
limitations. A coherent and well-reasoned argument is developed that is supported by the
evidence presented. What’s more, a critical evaluation of the source material is present.

• Discuss Limitations: (20-30 words)

Acknowledge any limitations in your analysis, such as data constraints or

methodological challenges.

• Mini Conclusion: (40-50 words)

Summarize findings from this indicator and state which aspect of indicator is being
fulfilled to answer RQ

2. Indicator 2 (sub heading 2) (400-470)

• Introduce the Indicator and its relevance to your RQ. (50 words)
• Present tables or graphs that show the data relevant to the research question. All
tables/graphs should be clearly labeled, including units (not included in word count)

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 • Show processed data (e.g., trends, averages, regression analysis results). Include sample
calculations (regression analysis, correlation calculation, average), if relevant. (Not
included in word count)
• Explain the trends seen in your data, referencing specific data points or graphs. Mention
contradictions if any, analyze it in context of research question. (50-70)
• Use economic theory to explain why the trends occurred. For example, how do changes
in minimum wage affect unemployment? (50-70)

Critical Analysis of indicator 1 (sub heading 2) (250-280)

• Comparison with Studies (70-100)

Compare your findings with existing studies or theoretical models. This could involve
citing economists or published research that support or contradict your findings or help
you to answer research questions.

• Comparison with different perspectives (75–100 words)

such as Economic theory Evaluation: Compare your data with the predictions made by
established economic models (e.g., demand-supply models, AD-AS models) and their
limitations. A coherent and well-reasoned argument is developed that is supported by the
evidence presented. What’s more, a critical evaluation of the source material is present.

• Discuss Limitations: (20-30 words)

Acknowledge any limitations in your analysis, such as data constraints or

methodological challenges.

• Mini Conclusion: (40-50 words)

Summarize findings from this indicator and state which aspect of indicator is being
fulfilled to answer RQ

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 3. Indicator 3 (sub heading 2) (400-470)
• Introduce the Indicator and its relevance to your RQ. (50 words)
• Present tables or graphs that show the data relevant to the research question. All
tables/graphs should be clearly labeled, including units (not included in word count)
• Show processed data (e.g., trends, averages, regression analysis results). Include sample
calculations (regression analysis, correlation calculation, average), if relevant. (Not
included in word count)
• Explain the trends seen in your data, referencing specific data points or graphs. Mention
contradictions if any, analyze it in context of research question. (50-70)
• Use economic theory to explain why the trends occurred. For example, how do changes in
minimum wage affect unemployment? (50-70)

Critical Analysis of indicator 3 (sub heading 2) (250-280)

• Comparison with Studies (70-100)

Compare your findings with existing studies or theoretical models. This could involve
citing economists or published research that support or contradict your findings or help you
to answer research questions.

• Comparison with different perspectives (75–100 words)

Compare your data with the predictions made by established economic models (e.g.,
demand-supply models, AD-AS models) and their limitations. A coherent and well-
reasoned argument is developed that is supported by the evidence presented. What’s more,
a critical evaluation of the source material is present.

• Discuss Limitations: (20-30 words)

Acknowledge any limitations in your analysis, such as data constraints or methodological

challenges.

• Mini Conclusion: (40-50 words)

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 Summarize findings from this indicator and state which aspect of indicator is being
fulfilled to answer RQ

4. Indicator 4 (sub heading 2) (400-470)

• Introduce the Indicator and its relevance to your RQ. (50 words)
• Present tables or graphs that show the data relevant to the research question. All
tables/graphs should be clearly labeled, including units (not included in word count)
• Show processed data (e.g., trends, averages, regression analysis results). Include sample
calculations (regression analysis, correlation calculation, average), if relevant. (not
included in word count)
• Explain the trends seen in your data, referencing specific data points or graphs. Mention
contradictions if any, analyze it in context of research question. (50-70)
• Use economic theory to explain why the trends occurred. For example, how do changes
in minimum wage affect unemployment? (50-70)

Critical Analysis of indicator (sub heading 2) 4 (250-280)

• Comparison with Studies (70-100)

Compare your findings with existing studies or theoretical models. This could involve
citing economists or published research that support or contradict your findings or help
you to answer research questions.

• Comparison with different perspectives (75–100 words)

such as Economic theory Evaluation: Compare your data with the predictions made by
established economic models (e.g., demand-supply models, AD-AS models) and their
limitations. A coherent and well-reasoned argument is developed that is supported by the
evidence presented. What’s more, a critical evaluation of the source material is present.

• Discuss Limitations: (20-30 words)

Acknowledge any limitations in your analysis, such as data constraints or

methodological challenges.

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 • Mini Conclusion: (40-50 words)

Summarize findings from this indicator and state which aspect of indicator is being
fulfilled to answer RQ

5. Indicator 5 (sub heading 2) (400-470)

• Introduce the Indicator and its relevance to your RQ. (50 words)
• Present tables or graphs that show the data relevant to the research question. All
tables/graphs should be clearly labeled, including units (not included in word count)
• Show processed data (e.g., trends, averages, regression analysis results). Include sample
calculations (regression analysis, correlation calculation, average), if relevant. (not
included in word count)
• Explain the trends seen in your data, referencing specific data points or graphs. Mention
contradictions if any, analyze it in context of research question. (50-70)
• Use economic theory to explain why the trends occurred. For example, how do changes
in minimum wage affect unemployment? (50-70)

Critical Analysis of indicator 5 (sub heading 2) (250-280)

• Comparison with Studies (70-100)

Compare your findings with existing studies or theoretical models. This could involve
citing economists or published research that support or contradict your findings or help
you to answer research questions.

• Comparison with different perspectives (75–100 words)

such as Economic theory Evaluation: Compare your data with the predictions made by
established economic models (e.g., demand-supply models, AD-AS models) and their
limitations. A coherent and well-reasoned argument is developed that is supported by the
evidence presented. What’s more, a critical evaluation of the source material is present.

• Discuss Limitations: (20-30 words)

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 Acknowledge any limitations in your analysis, such as data constraints or
methodological challenges.

• Mini Conclusion: (40-50 words)

Summarize findings from this indicator and state which aspect of indicator is being
fulfilled to answer RQ

6. Conclusion (250–300 words) (Heading 1)

• Restate Findings: (50-75 words) Summarize the key findings of your analysis and the
extent to which they support or reject your hypothesis.
• Conclusion and Resolution (50-75): Provide a clear resolution to the research question.
For example, explain how changes in minimum wage impact unemployment in the
studied region.
• Hypothesis Validation: (100-150) State whether your hypothesis was confirmed or
rejected based on the results and why give critical explanation.

Limitations (125–150words)

Limitations: Discuss 1-2 limitations of the research and their impact on the results. and
give improvements

Area of future scope (125–150 words)

• Suggested Improvements: Suggest recommendations for improvement

• future studies. the results of the research can be more reliable, validating and acceptance
of result (e.g., more comprehensive data, different variables, or larger sample sizes, larger
area).

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7. Bibliography (35- 40 sources) (Heading 1)

• Bibliography: Ensure all references follow MLA 8, Include URLs for online sources and
access dates and date of publications
• Note: Do not cite readymade sources and analysis
• segregate sources in different sections like: journals, website, books, research papers,
• Alphabetical Order: Organize the bibliography alphabetically by the author’s last name
or title.

8. Appendices: (Heading 1) (NOT INCLUDED IN WORD COUNT)

Include any additional data, raw materials, or interview transcripts

9. Engagement (Criterion E) (Heading 1)

Reflection Guidance for Economics Extended Essay (Econ EE)

To score highly in the reflection criterion, your reflections should demonstrate critical thinking,
self-awareness, and a clear understanding of the research process. Make sure you have a reference
list before you start writing reflection. Here’s how you can structure your reflections:

First Reflection: Initial Planning and Research (Approx. 90-100 words)

● Choosing the Topic and Research Question:

o Explain why you chose your specific research question.

o Discuss the initial brainstorming process and how you narrowed down your topic.

o Evidence of Personal engagement (Trigger for your subject specific research topic)

o Describe any challenges you faced in finalizing your research question. How did
you learn forward thinking? ( Is there a need to change research question or area
of study )

o Write two books, one article, research paper etc

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Second Reflection: Research and Writing Process (Approx. 140-150 words)

o Reflect on the process of gathering and analyzing data and show engagement
contributing to your intellectual growth.

o An emphasis on process - reflect on conceptual understandings, decision-making,

engagement with data and the research process

o Discuss any challenges you encountered, such as data limitations or unexpected

findings.

o Your rationale for decisions made especially if there are some adjustments in the
extended essay plans. Describe any changes you made to your research question or
methodology based on what you learned.

o Critically evaluation of your research question (narrow down the parameters, scope
of study etc )

o How your research process was authentic- example(s) of you applying intellectual
initiative and creativity. (eg any tool /approach beyond the book)

o The evolution and discovery of conceptual understandings as they relate to your

research question and sources.

o Mention any strategies you used to stay on track and meet deadlines.

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Third Reflection: Finalizing the Essay and Learning Outcomes (Approx. 240-
250 words)

Reflect on the process of synthesizing your research findings into a coherent argument.

o An appreciation that learning and research are complex, responses to challenges

and actions taken to overcome any challenges you may have experienced during
the research process and mention the key learnings in terms of your research topic.

o Reflect on the skills you gained through the EE process (e.g., critical thinking,
research skills).

o Reflect on the attributes developed during the process of research like -Reflective,
Risk taker, balanced, Principled (mention the evidence for the same)

o Discuss how the experience has impacted your understanding of Economics.

Reflect on what you would do differently if you were to start the project again.

o Credits to different parties helped you in completing the EE journey.

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10. Formatting and Presentation (Criterion D)

REQUIREMENTS YOU

Title page: title is centered in the middle

Title page should not include your name, candidate number, school and
supervisor’s name.

Title page includes the word count, Subject and session

Topic and Research question is stated on title page

No candidate, supervisor, or school name on page headers, appendices or

acknowledgment pages

Table of content must be provided

Put page number in bottom

Put research question in header of each page

Bibliography is correctly presented section wise in alphabetical order

Print, web and image sources should be mentioned in MLA 8 with date of
access and date of publication

If illustrative material has been included it is clearly presented and captioned and
can be interpreted with ease and ACKNOWLEDGED in foot notes

If illustrative material has been included it must be clearly relevant to the

argument and use has been made of it in the body of the text and must be
labelled (1,2,3,4,5) with footnote

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If appendices are included, they are clearly presented with captions and
numbers.

Appendices should be used and referenced (footnotes) to contribute to the

argument in the body of the essay

The introduction should state the same research question as on the title page

The conclusion is clearly relevant to the research question

The entire work is Times New Roman font, size 12, double spaced and justified

The entire essay should be written in third person using formal academic with
appropriate Economics terminology and subject specific language in past
tense (Do not use I, me, my or We)
All the tables and graphs should be numbered and should have titles with foot
notes

All graphs should be with both X and Y axis labelled with units

Word limit of the EE is 4000 words. It includes the introduction body of the
essay, the conclusion and any quotations “ ” of authors.

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Final check list

Point Action Check

1 Is the essay within the 4,000-word limit?

Does the essay include a Title page with the research

2 question clearly stated?

Is there a Contents page with clear headings and

3 subheadings?

4 Are all pages numbered consecutively in the footer?

Have you included all necessary economic definitions and

5 explanations of key terms?

Have you included all relevant economic theories, models,

6 and empirical studies?

Are all diagrams, charts, and graphs indexed, labelled, and

7 referenced?

Are all data sources and calculations properly cited and

8 consistent with economic standards?

Have you proofread the essay for spelling, grammar, and

consistency
9 in economic terminology?

Are all references in the text cited consistently and correctly

10 using MLA 8.0 format?

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 Does the Bibliography include only the sources you have
11 consulted and used in the essay?

Does the Bibliography specify author(s), title, date of

12 publication, and publisher for every reference?

Are the Bibliography sources cited consistently and correctly

13 according to MLA 8.0 standards?

Does the Appendix contain only relevant supplementary

14 information such as survey templates or data sets?

Are all references to the Appendix clearly cross-referenced

15 and labelled within the essay?

Is the research question clearly stated on the title page and in

16 the Introduction?

17 Is the research question restated in the Conclusion?

Does your Conclusion address any unresolved questions or

18 ambiguities?

Does your Conclusion address any new questions or

19 implications that emerged during your research?

20 Are your Introduction and Conclusion titled appropriately?

Have you ensured that your Research Proposal and Planning

21 Form (RPPF) is up to date and within the word limit?

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 Is your formatting consistent and in accordance with IB
22 standards, including font size, spacing, and margins?

Have you considered the ethical implications of your research

23 and included them where relevant?

Have you included a detailed methodology section that

24 justifies your research approach and methods?

Have you clearly identified and justified the choice of

25 variables in your research?

Are your data collection methods detailed enough to allow

26 replication of the study?

Have you analysed your data using appropriate economic

27 models or statistical tools?

Does your essay include a critical evaluation of the data and

28 methodology used?

Have you discussed the limitations of your study and

29 suggested possible improvements?

Have you considered the future scope of your research and

30 suggested areas for further investigation?

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