Getting Started: Choosing Your Project

Choosing the right problem is the most critical first step of your Internal Assessment. A good topic is engaging, challenging (but not impossible), and allows you to demonstrate your full range of computer science skills.

This guide will help you understand what makes a good IA topic and what pitfalls to avoid.

What is a "Problem of Sufficient Complexity"?

Your IA isn't just a simple coding exercise; it's a solution to a problem. The IB requires your chosen problem to have "sufficient complexity" to be appropriate for a DP-level course.

So, what does that mean?

• It's more than a classroom exercise: A "calculator" or a simple "cash register" program is too simple. The problem should be large enough that it needs to be broken down (decomposed) into many smaller, manageable parts.
• It requires a range of skills: A good project will require you to use problem-solving techniques, design data structures, manage data (in files or a database), and create complex algorithms.
• It fits the timeline and due dates set by your teacher: Your project must be realistic. Designing an "overly complex game" (like a 3D MMORPG) is not feasible. You must be able to plan, design, build, test, and document your solution within the timeline outlined by your teacher.
• It should be interesting to you: The TSM notes that the problem should be "interesting enough to fully engage students." This is your project, so pick something you'll enjoy working on.

Good Project Scenarios

Your problem can come from anywhere: the real world, another DP subject, or a specific computational context.

Official examples of appropriate projects include:

• An inventory management system for a school club or small business.
• A student database or library management system.
• An appointment scheduling tool for a teacher or local service.
• An encryption/decryption utility to secure messages.
• A computer simulation of a concept (e.g., a physics experiment, a disease spread).
• A mobile application that solves a specific problem (e.g., a study timer, a workout tracker).
• Adding functionality to an existing system, like writing a new plug-in for a piece of software or connecting a database to a website.

Where to Find Ideas

• Solve your own problem: Is there something in your life that's inefficient? Automate it.
• Help your community: Build a solution for your CAS project (e.g., a volunteer sign-up system, a resource tracker for a food bank).
• Link to other subjects:
  • Sciences: Simulate a biology experiment (e.g., predator-prey) or a chemistry concept (e.g., titration).
  • Math: Build a tool to visualise complex graphs or solve specific equations.
  • Humanities: Create a database to analyse historical data or track geographical trends.