Click here to explore thousands of examiner marked IA, EE and TOK exemplars!
Are you working on your IB English A HL Essay, but you're feeling uncertain about the requirements regarding the word count and page limit? If so, this guide is just for you!
IB English A HL Essay Word Count and Page Limit
The English A HL Essay should not exceed 1,500 words. There is no page limit. It is recommended to use a 12-point font with double spacing. The basic structure includes an introduction, main body, and conclusion.
The following word counts for each section below are our suggestions, but feel free to modify them as you see fit for your particular essay!
Introduction
The introduction of your HL essay lays the groundwork for your analysis. In around 150 words, your goal is to clearly present the work you'll analyse, outline the line of inquiry, and introduce the thesis you will develop throughout the essay.
Start by briefly identifying the author, title, and time period of the text. Give enough context to help the reader understand the significance of your topic –without drifting into plot summary. Then, introduce your line of inquiry: this is the central question or area of focus that your essay will explore. Follow it with a thesis statement that offers a clear, debatable perspective on that question.
Check out this and this exemplar to see what a strong introduction looks like.
Main body
The main body is the core of your essay – aim for about 1,200 words of close analysis. Divide your argument into clearly focused paragraphs, each exploring a different aspect of your line of inquiry.
Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that directly relates to your thesis. Follow this with specific references to the text, including quotations, and a detailed analysis of literary and non-literary techniques. Rather than being descriptive, be sure to examine how and why certain effects are created.
A strong HL Essay body can be seen here and here.
Conclusion
Your conclusion, roughly 150 words, should provide a clear, thoughtful summary of your argument, without repeating everything you’ve already said. Revisit your thesis and reflect on how your analysis has supported it. Avoid introducing new examples here. Instead, provide a thoughtful summary of what you have established and make sure to provide a direct answer to the selected question.
This and this exemplar end with a strong conclusion.
We hope you found this post helpful. For more useful materials associated with the IB, check out the wide variety of IA, EE and TOK exemplars available at Clastify and other guides available on our blog.
The Fast Track To Your
Best IB Coursework & College Essays
All content on this website has been developed independently from and is not endorsed by the International Baccalaureate Organization. International Baccalaureate and IB are registered trademarks owned by the International Baccalaureate Organization.