Get Inspired: 110 Unique Extended Essay Topics and Ideas

Are you struggling to choose an interesting topic for your extended essay? Do you feel overwhelmed by the vast array of options and the pressure to excel in your research?

Students often struggle with finding a good, researchable topic for their extended essay. But don't worry!

This blog offers 110 best extended essay topics and ideas, along with expert tips for success. With this read, you can easily get started on your extended essay. 

So, read on and discover a wide range of topics!

IB Extended Essay Topics

IB extended essay topics are diverse, interdisciplinary, and self-directed. They can be chosen from a wide range of subjects and must be grounded in academic research. 

The topics are broad but feasible for in-depth research and writing. Writing an extended essay develops students' skills in critical thinking, and research, and prepares them for the future.

Here are extended essay topics categorized by subjects.

Biology Extended Essay Topics 

Here is a list of extended essay topics in biology:

• Investigating the effectiveness of different types of natural insecticides on pest control.
  
• Analyzing the effect of X diet on gut microbiome composition and health.
  
• Examining the role of gut microbiota in human health and disease.
  
• Studying the genetic basis of addiction and its implications for treatment.
  
• Exploring the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing for disease prevention and treatment.
  
• Analyzing the effects of different types of stress on the human body and mind.
  
• Examining the impact of X medication on the functioning of the Y organ system.
  
• Investigating the potential of stem cells in regenerative medicine.
  
• The effects of X substance on the behavior of Y cell type.
  
• Analyzing the ecological impact of invasive species on native ecosystems.

English Extended Essay Topics

Here are some extended essay topics English literature:

• Analyzing the use of symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter.
  
• Investigating the role of gender in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
  
• How does Shakespeare use the theme of fate in Romeo and Juliet?
  
• Examining the impact of colonialism in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart.
  
• Analyzing the Theme of Power in J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings.
  
• How does F. Scott Fitzgerald critique the American Dream in The Great Gatsby?
  
• Investigating the representation of race in Toni Morrison’s Beloved.
  
• Analyzing the use of narrative structure in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude.
  
• How does George Orwell use satire to critique totalitarianism in Animal Farm?
  
• Examining the use of magical realism in Isabel Allende’s The House of the Spirits.

Psychology Extended Essay Topics 

Check out this list of extended essay topics psychology:

• Investigating the impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health.
  
• Analyzing the relationship between personality traits and career success.
  
• Investigating the effects of social media on adolescent self-esteem and body image.
  
• Analyzing the impact of X drug on brain chemistry and behavior.
  
• Analyzing the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating anxiety disorders.
  
• Examining the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders.
  
• Investigating the relationship between X personality trait and addiction.
  
• Investigating the role of nature vs. nurture in the development of sexual orientation.
  
• Examining the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance and mood.
  
• Investigating the impact of X's environmental factor on the development of Y's mental health condition.

Economics Extended Essay Topics 

Here is a list of extended essay topics in economics:

• Exploring the relationship between government policies and income inequality in a particular country.
  
• Investigating the relationship between X income inequality and economic growth.
  
• Evaluating the effects of trade protectionism on domestic industries and consumers.
  
• The impact of X technology on employment and labor markets.
  
• Investigating the relationship between taxation and corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices.
  
• Examining the role of innovation and entrepreneurship in driving economic growth.
  
• The effectiveness of X price discrimination strategy in increasing firm revenue.
  
• Exploring the role of corporate mergers and acquisitions in industry consolidation and market power.
  
• Investigating the relationship between X tax policy and small business growth.
  
• Assessing the impact of government regulation on the growth and development of emerging technologies.

Chemistry Extended Essay Topics

• Investigating the effects of different types of sunscreen on UV radiation protection.
  
• Analyzing the efficiency of different types of water filtration systems in removing contaminants.
  
• Exploring the chemistry behind the flavors and aromas of different types of wine.
  
• What are the chemical reactions involved in food preservation techniques?
  
• Assessing the impact of different types of fertilizers on soil pH and plant growth.
  
• Examining the chemistry of fermentation and its applications in the production of different types of alcoholic beverages.
  
• What is the impact of air pollution on atmospheric chemistry and climate change?
  
• Analyzing the chemical properties of different types of plastics and their environmental impact.
  
• What is the chemistry behind the synthesis and properties of superconductors?
  
• Studying the chemistry of batteries and their applications in energy storage.

Physics Extended Essay Topics

Here are some extended essay topics for physics:

• Investigating the physics of fluid dynamics and its applications in aerodynamics.
  
• Exploring the properties and applications of different types of superconductors
  
• The effect of X wavelength on the speed of light in a medium.
  
• The physics of magnetic levitation and its applications in transportation.
  
• Investigating the relationship between X surface area and the rate of evaporation.
  
• Exploring the properties and applications of different types of lasers.
  
• Investigating the physics of nuclear fusion and its potential as a clean energy source.
  
• Studying the relationship between the X spring constant and the period of oscillation of a mass-spring system.
  
• Exploring the physics of quantum computing and its potential applications in computing and cryptography.
  
• Analyzing the efficiency of heat engine technology.

Extended Essay Topics Business

Here is a list of business management extended essay topics:

• Examining the Relationship Between Corporate Culture and Employee Motivation
  
• Assessing the Effects of Social Media Marketing on Consumer Behavior and Brand Awareness
  
• Investigating the Factors that Contribute to Successful International Joint Ventures
  
• Evaluating the Effectiveness of Talent Management Strategies in Recruiting and Retaining Top Employees
  
• Analyzing the Impact of E-Commerce on Traditional Retail Business Models
  
• Studying the Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Leadership and Team Management
  
• Exploring Strategies for Managing Workplace Diversity and Inclusion
  
• Investigating the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Displacement and Workforce Development
  
• Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of Strategic Partnerships for Business Growth and Innovation
  
• Analyzing the Effects of Government Regulations on Business Operations and Profitability.

History Extended Essay Topics 

Here is some extended essay topics history:

• Analyzing the Impact of the Opium Wars on China's Relationship with the West
  
• Studying the Factors that Contributed to the Fall of the Roman Empire
  
• Examining the Legacy of the Haitian Revolution and its Influence on Global Anti-Colonial Movements
  
• Evaluating the Role of Women in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
  
• What Were the Causes and Consequences of the Spanish Civil War
  
• Investigating the Factors that Led to the Rise of Fascism in Italy
  
• The Impact of the American Indian Movement on Indigenous Rights in the United States
  
• Evaluating the Success and Failures of the United Nations in Promoting International Peace and Security
  
• What Became The Causes and Consequences of the Partition of India in 1947
  
• Investigating the Role of Propaganda in Shaping Public Opinion during World War II.

Extended Essay Topics Computer Science

• Enhancing Cybersecurity with Artificial Intelligence: An Investigation
  
• Social Media Algorithms and User Behavior: An Analysis of Political Polarization
  
• Ethical Implications of Facial Recognition Technology: An Examination
  
• Detecting Financial Fraud with Machine Learning Algorithms: An Evaluation
  
• Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management: A Study
  
• Quantum Computing and Cryptography: An Investigation into Data Security
  
• Computer Science and Sustainable Energy Technologies: A Review
  
• Predictive Analytics for Healthcare: A Comparative Study of Data Mining Techniques
  
• Autonomous Vehicles: An Exploration of Ethical and Social Implications
  
• Assistive Technologies for People with Disabilities: A Critical Assessment of Computer Science Contributions.

Extended Essay Topics Global Politics

• Assessing the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping missions in resolving conflicts
  
• The impact of social media on political activism and social movements in the digital age
  
• The role of international organizations in promoting human rights and humanitarian aid
  
• The influence of neoliberalism on global economic policies and its impact on developing countries
  
• Investigating the root causes of terrorism and strategies for combating it in the modern world
  
• The impact of climate change on global politics and the role of international cooperation in addressing it
  
• An Evaluation of China's Belt and Road Initiative and its impact on global economic and political power dynamics
  
• The Role of soft power in shaping international relations and Diplomacy
  
• Analyzing the ethical implications of drone warfare and targeted killings in contemporary warfare
  
• The challenges and opportunities of refugee resettlement policies in developed countries.

Extended Essay Topics Geography

• The relationship between tourism and environmental conservation in a specific region or national park.
  
• Evaluating the effectiveness of different methods for managing and reducing plastic waste in coastal cities.
  
• The impact of sea level rise on coastal communities and infrastructure in a particular location.
  
• Comparing the effectiveness of different renewable energy sources for powering a specific region or country.
  
• Assessing the impact of deforestation on the water cycle and water availability in a particular region.
  
• Examining the impact of urbanization on the microclimate of a specific city or urban area.
  
• Studying the potential impact of a future earthquake or volcanic eruption on a particular region or city.
  
• What is the effectiveness of various adaptation strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture in a particular region or country?
  
• Investigating the relationship between air pollution and respiratory health in a specific urban area or region.
  
• Assessing the impact of mining on the environment and local communities in a particular region or country.
  

Research Questions for Extended Essay 

Here is a list of research questions for extended essays:

• To what extent has social media impacted political participation and activism among young people?
  
• How does the representation of mental illness in literature reflect changing societal attitudes toward mental health over time?
  
• What is the impact of the use of technology in the classroom on student learning outcomes?
  
• To what extent do cultural factors shape perceptions of beauty and body image, and what are the potential negative effects of these perceptions on individuals and society?
  
• How has the #MeToo movement impacted the legal and social responses to sexual harassment and assault?
  
• What are the ethical implications of using artificial intelligence to make decisions in fields such as medicine or finance?
  
• How has globalization impacted economic inequality both within and between countries?
  
• To what extent do historical events such as colonization continue to shape contemporary social and economic disparities in certain regions or countries?
  
• What is the psychological impact of exposure to violent or graphic media on children and adolescents?
  
• How do cultural attitudes towards mental health differ across different regions or countries, and what are the implications of these differences for the treatment of mental illness?

Good Vs. Bad Research Questions

When creating research questions, it's important to know that they're not the same as essay topics. Good research questions have certain qualities that make them effective, while bad ones can lead to unsuccessful research. 

Let's talk about how to tell the difference!

Aspect of Research Question	Good Example	Bad Example
Clarity and Specificity	What are the long-term effects of childhood exposure to secondhand smoke on respiratory health?	How does smoking affect health?
Relevance and Significance	How does the use of technology in the classroom impact student learning outcomes?	What is the impact of stuff in classrooms on students?
Feasibility	What are the most effective strategies for reducing plastic waste in urban areas?	How can we create a perpetual motion machine?
Focused and Narrow	How does the portrayal of mental illness in film impact public perception of mental health issues?	What is the relationship between the number of blades on a wind turbine and energy production?
Testable and Measurable	How does the use of mindfulness meditation impact stress levels in college students?	What is the meaning of life?

Characteristics of a Good Extended Essay Topic

Choosing a good extended essay topic is crucial to the success of your project. Here are some characteristics to keep in mind:

• Personal interest: Select a topic that you find interesting and fascinating. This will make the research and writing process much more enjoyable.
• Feasibility: Choose a topic that is feasible within the given time and resource constraints. Consider factors such as access to information and availability of sources.
• Originality: Aim for a topic that is original and unique. Avoid choosing a topic that is too broad or generic.
• Significance: Select a topic that is significant and relevant to the subject area. The topic should have relevance beyond the extended essay itself.
• Research potential: Choose a topic that has ample scope for research and analysis. This will ensure that you have enough material to write a comprehensive essay.

By considering these characteristics, you can select an extended essay topic that will result in a rewarding project.

How to Choose an Extended Essay Topic?

The extended essay is an opportunity to explore a topic of personal interest and develop research skills while demonstrating its understanding.

Here are some things IB students should consider when choosing an EE topic:

Understand the EE Guidelines

To choose an appropriate topic for your extended essay, you must first familiarize yourself with the requirements set by the IB program. 

You can refer to an extended essay guide for this. This will ensure that your chosen topic is within the scope of the program and meets the necessary academic standards.

Brainstorm and Narrow Down Options

Brainstorming is a crucial step in selecting an extended essay topic. Start by generating a list of ideas based on your interests and passions. 

Narrow down options by considering feasibility, resources, and research questions.

Consider Personal Interests

Selecting a topic that matches your interests can enhance your extended essay research and writing process.

Consider your strengths and weaknesses when choosing a topic to ensure successful completion of the project.

Evaluate the Feasibility and Scope of Topic

It is essential to evaluate the feasibility and scope of your chosen topic before committing to it fully. 

Consider factors such as the availability of resources, potential research questions, and the time and effort required to complete the project. Make sure that your chosen topic is manageable and realistic within the given timeframe.

By carefully picking the right topic, you can take the first step towards ensuring a good extended essay grade.

With the list of topics provided and the tips on how to choose, you are well-equipped to begin your extended essay journey. 

However, if the process still seems overwhelming, don't hesitate to reach out to our college essay-writing service for help. 

Our AI essay writer can write your extended essay on any topic you need.

Also, our writers can guide you in choosing a topic, conducting research, and crafting a well-structured essay that meets the requirements. 

With our extended essay writing service, you’ll get a top-quality essay that earns you the grade you deserve.