IB Mathematics is split into two courses: Analysis & Approaches (AA), which is calculus-heavy and suited for students planning to study maths-intensive subjects at university, and Applications & Interpretations (AI), which focuses on statistics, modelling, and real-world applications. Both are available at SL and HL. The resources you need depend heavily on which course and level you are taking.
The IB Mathematics Formula Booklet
The most important resource is the official IB Mathematics formula booklet, which you receive in every exam. Download it from the IBO website and use it from the very first day of your course. Many students make the mistake of memorising formulas that are actually in the booklet, wasting precious revision time. Know exactly what is in the booklet and use exam time efficiently.
However, important formulas that are NOT in the booklet must be memorised: the quadratic formula (AA), basic differentiation rules, standard indefinite integrals, and probability rules. Build a separate 'not in booklet' reference card.
Official IB Resources
- •IB Questionbank (official): Topic-by-topic questions for all DP subjects including both Maths AA and AI. Requires school subscription but many schools provide access.
- •IBO past papers: Available via your school's MY IB account or through legitimate past paper sites. Always practise with actual IB papers.
- •IBO syllabus guide: Download the subject guide for your specific course (AA or AI) and use it as your revision checklist.
Free Online Resources
Revision Village
Revision Village (revisionvillage.com) is widely considered the best dedicated resource for IB Mathematics. It offers topic-by-topic practice questions, worked solutions, and video explanations. The free tier gives limited access; the paid tier is worth the investment if you are serious about a 6 or 7. Their 'Questionbank' mirrors the IB exam style closely.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy (khanacademy.org) is excellent for understanding foundational concepts — particularly for AA HL topics like calculus, vectors, and complex numbers. The explanations are clear and the practice is interactive. Use Khan Academy to build understanding, then use IB-specific resources for exam practice.
Mathematics SL and HL (YouTube)
Several YouTube channels produce IB Mathematics-specific content. Search for channels that explicitly state they cover IB AA or AI — not generic A-Level or AP channels, as the syllabus differs. Look for videos that reference IB mark schemes and use the IB formula booklet in their working.
Topic-Specific Resources
- •Statistics and Probability (AI HL and AA SL/HL): The StatisticsHowTo website explains probability distributions, hypothesis testing, and regression clearly.
- •Calculus (AA SL/HL): Paul's Online Math Notes (tutorial.math.lamar.edu) is excellent for calculus intuition and technique.
- •Vectors (AA HL): 3Blue1Brown's 'Essence of Linear Algebra' series builds geometric intuition for vectors and matrices.
- •Complex Numbers (AA HL): ExamSolutions (examsolutions.net) has worked examples for Argand diagrams, de Moivre's theorem, and polar form.
- •Number and Algebra (both courses): Practice on the IB Questionbank or Revision Village, which categorises questions by sub-topic.
The Internal Assessment (Exploration)
The IB Maths IA (called the Exploration) counts for 20% of your final grade. Unlike the Physics IA, the Maths Exploration should demonstrate mathematical curiosity and depth — it is not a data collection exercise. Choose a topic you find genuinely interesting, and ensure it goes beyond the syllabus in some way (using syllabus mathematics in a novel application, or exploring a concept at greater depth).
The IBO publishes past exemplar explorations with examiner commentaries — these are invaluable for understanding what 'personal engagement' and 'reflection' actually mean to an examiner. Find these through your teacher or the IBO store.
Recommended Revision Timeline
- 1.Start of Year 2: Revisit all Year 1 content systematically — do not wait until the exam year to revise Year 1 topics.
- 2.October–February (Year 2): One topic per week, alternating between past paper questions and concept reinforcement.
- 3.March–April: Full past paper practice under timed conditions. At least one paper per week.
- 4.Final 4 weeks: Targeted revision on your weakest topics only. Re-read the syllabus guide.