Question 1

What makes a good Internal Assessment research question?

Accepted Answer

A strong Internal Assessment research question identifies a specific independent variable, a measurable dependent variable, and the system being investigated — all in one sentence. It should be narrow enough to investigate within the word limit, testable with the equipment or sources available to you, and connected to the syllabus for your subject.

Question 2

How do I know if my research question is too broad?

Accepted Answer

A research question is too broad if it could be a full PhD thesis, if it names no specific variable or relationship, or if answering it would require resources far beyond what a student has. For example, 'How does diet affect health?' is too broad. 'How does daily sugar intake (50g vs 100g vs 150g) affect systolic blood pressure in 16–18-year-olds over four weeks?' is appropriately scoped.

Question 3

Can I use this tool for both IA and Extended Essay research questions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The iBacalao feasibility checker assesses research questions for both Internal Assessments across 26 supported subjects and Extended Essays. Select IA or EE mode, choose your subject, and paste your research question to get a verdict on scope, measurability, and syllabus alignment.

Question 4

What does the feasibility verdict mean?

Accepted Answer

The feasibility checker returns one of four verdicts: Strong (the RQ is well-scoped, measurable, and syllabus-aligned — proceed), Workable (the RQ has potential but needs refinement before you start), Risky (significant problems that will likely cost marks), or Reject (the RQ is not viable for an assessment in its current form). Each verdict comes with specific feedback on what to change.

Question 5

Is it free to check my research question?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The research question feasibility checker on iBacalao is free to use. Create a free account to get your verdict. iBacalao also offers paid plans with up to 50 IA, EE, and TOK essay feedback reviews per month.

Research Question Feasibility Check