How to Master IB Economics Diagrams
A comprehensive guide to drawing perfect diagrams for your Internal Assessment and Exams
Internal Assessment
Exam Preparation
Step-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 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