How to Self-Mark IB Past Papers Like an Examiner
Doing past papers is 30% of the value. Marking them properly is the other 70%.
Doing past papers is 30% of the value. Marking them properly is the other 70%.
Mark blind first — estimate your marks before checking
Apply mark scheme strictly — if it doesn't match, you didn't earn it
Categorize every lost mark — content gap, wrong command term, incomplete, careless, or time pressure
Write perfect answers — use the mark scheme to write what a full-mark response looks like
Track patterns — after 3+ papers, identify your consistent weak spots
Award marks [1]: specific fact required
Accept/Reject notes: what alternative answers work
Error carried forward: you can earn marks in part (b) even if part (a) is wrong
Command terms: state ≠ describe ≠ explain ≠ evaluate
Before answering any question, ask: "What would the mark scheme look for here?" Structure your answer to hit those exact points. This adds 5-10 marks to your total.
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