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Explore the IB Maths AI SL syllabus
The current IB Maths AI SL syllabus develops modelling, technology and interpretation across number and algebra, functions, geometry and trigonometry, statistics and probability, and calculus. Use the five-group map to navigate 39 shared objectives without importing AHL scope.
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How to study IB Maths AI SL
IB Maths AI SL improves when technology follows a mathematical decision. Use the syllabus map to identify the model, define variables and assumptions, enter the relationship accurately, record relevant GDC output and interpret the result in context. Then test units, scale, domain, precision and whether the model remains reasonable. A calculator value without setup, working and interpretation is not a complete solution.
Use Concept to understand the model, Mastery to retrieve formulas and GDC routines, and the Question Bank to select methods from unfamiliar contexts. After marking, classify the first failure as model choice, concept, algebra, GDC execution, precision, communication or interpretation. Repair that category, hide the worked solution and repeat a matched problem.
Practise models, tools and interpretation
Match financial, functional, geometric, statistical and calculus models to real contexts, then make technology output mathematically visible and meaningful.
Number, finance and functions
Sequences, loans, annuities, equations and function modelling
Define the quantities and time interval, build the model and enter it accurately. Interpret parameters and output in context, then test whether rounding, domain and long-term behaviour remain sensible.
Practise financial modelsGeometry and networks
Three-dimensional geometry, trigonometry and Voronoi diagrams
Draw and label the situation before calculating. Connect coordinates, measurements or regions to the real decision, preserve units and explain what the constructed boundary, route or distance means.
Practise geometryStatistics and probability
Sampling, regression, distributions and hypothesis testing
Identify population, variables and assumptions first. Use the GDC to process data, report relevant statistics and interpret evidence carefully without confusing correlation, significance or model fit with causation.
Practise statisticsCalculus and optimization
Rates of change, extrema, area and trapezoidal approximation
Connect the derivative, integral or approximation to the graph and context. Use technology after setup, test endpoints or constraints, and explain whether the optimum or accumulated value is realistic.
Practise calculusPaper 1 and Paper 2 workflows
Compulsory short responses and connected extended responses
For Paper 1, practise rapid model selection and concise supported output. For Paper 2, sustain one context across several parts, carrying assumptions, precision and interpretations consistently through the response.
Open mixed practiceWhere to start
Start from one known modelling skill or use mixed contexts to expose the first repeatable setup, technology or interpretation failure.
Choose your starting point
- Browse the syllabus
I know the weak skill
Open its exact syllabus group and identify the model, variables, assumptions and GDC operation required.
- Open mixed questions
I do not know what is weak
Attempt a short mixed set and stop at the first repeated method-selection, tool or interpretation error.
Choose the right starting point
- Review a Concept
Set up the model
Define variables and assumptions, choose a relationship and predict the expected shape or scale before calculating.
- Check Mastery
Use technology deliberately
Enter the model accurately, retain sufficient precision and record output that supports the mathematical method.
- Practise questions
Interpret, check and retry
Explain the result in context, test reasonableness and repeat after repairing the first invalid step.
IB Maths AI SL assessment format
External assessment contributes 80% across two GDC-required papers and the exploration contributes 20%. SL preparation should separate short-response breadth from sustained contextual modelling.
SourceInternational Baccalaureate Organization · Mathematics: applications and interpretation guideIB Mathematics: applications and interpretation · First assessment May 2021
IB Maths AI SL questions
Choose one modelling objective when the weakness is known; otherwise attempt a short mixed set. Rebuild the setup, execute the GDC routine, interpret the output and classify the first invalid decision before selecting the next review action.
Yes. A graphic display calculator is required for both SL examination papers, although not every question necessarily needs it. You still need a mathematical setup, suitable working and interpretation; unsupported calculator output may not receive full marks.
Paper 1 contains compulsory short-response questions and rewards broad, efficient setup. Paper 2 contains compulsory extended responses, so preparation should sustain assumptions, technology output and interpretation across several connected parts of one context.
No. A clean formula booklet is required during every examination paper. Practise recognizing the appropriate relationship, checking its conditions and translating its notation into the current model instead of searching passively or memorising page locations.