As an IB student, writing an extended essay can be daunting. With so much pressure to create a high-quality piece of work, choosing a EE topic that will allow you to showcase your skills and knowledge is essential. However, it can be disheartening to realize that many overused topics and ideas there are, making it challenging to produce an original and impactful extended essay.
The fear of tackling a cliche topic can cause writer’s block, leaving you feeling stuck before you’ve even started. But don’t despair! There is a solution. With a bit of creativity and a willingness to think outside the box, you can choose a unique and engaging topic.
In this article, we will explore how you can avoid writing an extended essay on an overused topic and offer tips to help you choose a subject that genuinely showcases your strengths and interests.
Whether you’re a student seeking to impress your teachers or someone looking to make an impact with your writing, this guide will give you the tools you need to write a truly standout extended essay.
If you are looking for information about the differences between IB extended essay and IB Internal assessment – you can check another article from our blog:
Let’s start with the list of cliched IB EE topics. I know this is what most of you were waiting for.
The Most Overused Extended Essay Topics
Here’s a list of some of the most commonly used and overused topics for the IB extended essay:
- Analysis of a novel
- The causes of World War I
- The effects of globalization
- The impact of technology on society
- An examination of a famous person’s life and achievements
- The history of a particular country or region
- The role of women in society
- An analysis of a play or theatrical production
- The impact of social media on communication
- An examination of a particular type of music or musical artist
- The impact of climate change on the environment
- An analysis of a particular type of art or artist
- The history of a particular religion
- The impact of economic policies on a country’s development
- An examination of a particular type of sport or athlete
- The impact of advertising on consumer behavior
- An analysis of a political system or leader
- The effects of immigration on a country
- The history of a particular movement or social change
- The impact of education on society
- An examination of a particular type of film or filmmaker
- The impact of scientific advancements on society
- An analysis of a particular type of food or cuisine
- The effects of poverty on a community
- The history of a particular type of fashion or clothing
- The impact of environmental policies on a company or industry
- An examination of a particular type of media, such as radio or television
- The impact of a particular event or happening, such as a natural disaster or major political event
- An analysis of a particular type of economic system
- The impact of media representation on a particular group or community.
It’s important to note that while these topics are commonly used, it’s still possible to write a well-researched and original essay on them.
Just make sure to approach the topic from a unique perspective and conduct thorough research to support your arguments. Use your imagination.
How to avoid writing an extended essay on an overdone topic?
To avoid writing an extended essay on a cliched topic, you can use these tips + your creativity and imagination. As a result, you will get the best outcome for your extended essay.
Think outside the box
Instead of choosing a research question that’s been explored many times, consider taking a new angle or approaching the subject from a different perspective.
Research your options
Before you settle on a topic, do some preliminary research to see what has been written on the subject and whether it feels like a well-explored area.
Consult with your supervisor
Your supervisor can help guide you towards a RQ that is both interesting and unique.
Look at your interests
Choose a topic that you are truly passionate about, as this will make the writing process more enjoyable and help you produce a better-quality essay.
Get creative
If you’re having trouble finding a unique topic, try brainstorming creative ideas and thinking about how you can approach the subject in a new way.
Consider interdisciplinary research questions
Sometimes combining two subjects can lead to a more original and unique essay topic.
Look for current events and controversies
These can provide engaging and timely RQs for your essay.
Remember, the key to a successful extended essay is to choose a topic that you are interested in and can research thoroughly.
So don’t be afraid to think creatively and come up with a unique angle that sets your essay apart from the rest.
Refrain from Being Scared of Overused EE ideas!
Writing an extended essay that falls into the category of “been there, done that” can be a discouraging journey. But, with a dash of creativity and a pinch of strategic planning, you can embark on a path less traveled and choose a topic that is both unique and deeply personal.Â
By doing so, you’ll have the opportunity to unleash your writing prowess and showcase your knowledge in a way that sets your essay apart from the conventional.
Need help with your IB EE?
You can also use our extended essay writers team’s services if you need assistance selecting a topic. Furthermore, we can also help you write your IB extended essay from scratch or edit your draft following the IB criteria.
So, let go of the fear of the unknown and embrace your passions. Allow your imagination to soar and craft an extended essay that is a true reflection of who you are.
With these tips as your compass, you’ll be well on your way to writing an extended essay that not only impresses your audience but also showcases your individuality and creativity.
