The Early Bird Gets the A: Why Starting Your EE in IB’s First Week Pays Off!

Hey there, future IB warriors! Whether you’re just starting your International Baccalaureate journey or you’re knee-deep in the thick of it, you’ve probably heard the HORROR stories about the Extended Essay (EE). That seemingly insurmountable mountain of research, analysis, and writing that stands between you and those coveted bonus marks. But fear not, because today we’re diving into a golden nugget of wisdom that might just save your sanity: starting your EE in IB’s first week!

I get it. The first week of school hits you with EE talks, a wild mix of new faces, crazy syllabi, and the scary truth that the next two years are gonna be a total rollercoaster. Amidst all this chaos, the thought of starting your EE might seem ludicrous. I mean, who even thinks about that in the first week, right? Well, my friends, the early bird truly does get the A, and here’s why.

1. Beating the Procrastination Monster:

Procrastination is the arch-nemesis of every IB student, whispering temptations of YouTube, social media, and Netflix binges. But by starting your EE in week one, you’re throwing procrastination off the cliff. You’re taking charge, giving yourself a head start that can make all the difference.

2. Navigating the Maze of Research:

Choosing a topic that genuinely interests you is crucial, and that decision deserves time and careful consideration. Starting early allows you to explore various subjects, delve into different fields, and find that perfect topic that makes your eyes light up with excitement. Trust me; it’s much easier to brainstorm and research when you’re not under the looming pressure of impending deadlines.

3. Teacher’s Ally:

Okay, maybe not a pet, but starting your EE in the first week gives you a unique advantage – your teachers have more time for you. They’re not bombarded with a hundred other EE-related queries, which means you get their undivided attention. Discussing your ideas with teachers who are not rushed can be invaluable. They can offer guidance, suggest resources, and provide feedback that can set you on the right path from the get-go.

4. Avoiding the Last-Minute Panic:

Picture this: it’s the night before your EE deadline, and you’re frantically typing away, fueled by caffeine and sheer panic. Now, imagine an alternate scenario where you started early. You’re calmly reviewing your well-researched points, refining your arguments, and polishing your prose. Which version of yourself do you want to be? The stressed-out night owl or the composed, prepared early bird? I know which one I’d choose!

5. Personalized Deadlines = Zen Mode:

Most schools have their own internal deadlines for the EE, but relying solely on those might not be the best strategy. By setting your own personal deadlines, you’re taking control of your time. You can break down the daunting task of the EE into manageable chunks, creating a timeline that suits your pace. This way, you’re not scrambling to meet last-minute school deadlines, and you have the freedom to refine your work without the added stress.

In a nutshell, starting your Extended Essay in the first week of IB is like putting on a sturdy helmet before entering a battlefield. It equips you with the armor of preparedness, the sword of determination, and the shield of knowledge. Sure, it requires dedication and a bit of extra effort upfront, but the payoff is enormous. You’ll find yourself with more time to explore, less stress to battle, and a higher chance of achieving that coveted A grade.

So, my fellow IB warriors, let’s embrace the wisdom of the early bird. Let’s soar above the chaos, armed with our well-researched topics, thoughtful discussions with teachers, and personalized deadlines. Together, we’ll conquer the EE mountain, not as weary travelers, but as warriors who faced the challenge head-on and emerged victorious.

Here’s to the early birds – the ones who dare to start their EE journey in IB’s first week. May your research be fruitful, your writing be eloquent, and your grades be nothing short of stellar. Onward, brave souls, to the A grades that await those who seize the day from the very beginning of their IB adventure!