How to Master IB Economics Diagrams

A comprehensive guide to drawing perfect diagrams for your Internal Assessment and Exams

Internal AssessmentExam PreparationStep-by-Step Guide

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Diagrams For The IA

Getting Full Marks (3/3) for Criterion A

IB Requirement

"Relevant, accurate and correctly labelled diagrams are included, with a full explanation."

Key Components:

Relevant: Diagrams must connect to your chosen economic concept and article content
Accurate: Correct economic relationships and proportions
Correctly Labelled: All axes, curves, points, and intersections clearly marked
Full Explanation: Step-by-step analysis of the diagram

Example:Macroeconomic Long Run Equilibrium

Perfect Diagram Checklist

This diagram demonstrates all essential elements for maximum marks

Macroeconomic Long Run Equilibrium with Expansionary Fiscal Policy

Macroeconomic Long Run Equilibrium showing the effects of Expansionary Fiscal Policy

Essential Elements:

Clear, descriptive title
Fully labeled X and Y axes with units
All curves clearly labeled (SRAS, LRAS, AD₁, AD₂)
Price and quantity points marked (PL₁, PL₂, Yₑ, Y₂)

Advanced Features:

Clear intersection points visible
Arrows showing curve shifts
Proportional scaling
Clean, professional appearance

Drawing The Diagram Step-by-Step

Time Investment

Take your time with IA diagrams — they're worth 3 marks and you have unlimited time to perfect them.

Step 1: Planning

• Choose the most relevant diagram for your article
• Identify the economic concept being illustrated
• Plan the layout and size on your paper/digital program

Step 2: Drawing

• Use a ruler for all straight lines
• Draw axes first, then add curves
• Ensure curves are smooth and proportional
• Mark intersection points clearly

Step 3: Labeling

• Add a comprehensive title
• Label both axes with variables and units
• Label all curves and lines
• Show any shifts/movements with arrows

Step 4: Explanation

Start with a strong opening:

"The economy initially starts in long-run equilibrium where AD₁ intersects both SRAS and LRAS at point E₁, with price level P₁ and real GDP at Y₁ (full employment level). The government then implements expansionary fiscal policy..."

• Explain the initial equilibrium
• Describe what causes the change
• Analyze the shift and new equilibrium
• Discuss economic implications

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Diagrams For Exams

Exam Diagram Drawing

Essential Elements (Must Have)

Clear title
Labeled axes
Labeled curves
Key points marked
Brief explanation

Time-Saving Tips

Practice common diagrams until automatic
Use abbreviations (e.g., MC, MR, AR)
Focus on accuracy over perfection
Allocate 5-7 minutes per diagram
Keep explanations concise but complete

IB Official Requirements For Exams

"Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil. A ruler (straight edge) should be used for straight lines. Diagrams should be drawn to scale. Graphs should have points correctly plotted (if appropriate) and joined in a straight line or smooth curve."

Final Success Tips

Practice Regularly

Draw the same diagrams repeatedly until they become second nature

Check Your Work

Always verify that your diagram matches the economic scenario described

Understand The Diagram

Make sure you understand what the diagram shows and which one is most appropriate

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All IB Economics Diagrams

Access our collection of all IB Economics Diagrams that you need to know!