IB Language A HL Essay Source Checker

The HL Essay should focus on one studied literary work or, in Language and Literature, one studied non-literary body of work. Secondary sources are optional but must be cited if used.

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Language A HL Essay source check

Marksy reads the links or notes you give it, applies the rules for your IB assignment, and only stops to ask you something when the answer would change the verdict.

  1. Assignment
  2. 2Sources
  3. 3Clarify
  4. 4Verdict

Checking against

Language A HL Essay

What usually works for Language A HL Essay

Usually strong

  • One studied literary work.
  • One studied non-literary body of work for Language and Literature.
  • Scholarship or contextual sources when cited and used sparingly.

Example

A studied poetry collection with edition details and one cited scholarly context source.

Needs a second look

  • Too many secondary sources leading to a research essay.
  • A text not studied in class.
  • AI-generated interpretations used without acknowledgement.

Example

A critical article used for context but not central to the argument.

Avoid or replace

  • Replacing close analysis with critic summaries.
  • Uncited AI or online notes.
  • A generic theme essay across many texts.

Example

An AI summary of symbolism in the work.

Where to find better Language A HL Essay sources

If a source gets a warning, don't just add more websites. Search for sources that match the assessment rule and can carry real analysis.

Searches to try

If a source is weak

  • Replace replacing close analysis with critic summaries. with one studied literary work..
  • Use too many secondary sources leading to a research essay. only as context unless your teacher confirms they can carry evidence.
  • Add one source that gives direct evidence for the HL Essay, not just general background.

Good places to look

  • One studied literary work
  • One studied non-literary body of work for Language and Literature
  • Scholarship or contextual sources when cited and used sparingly

Questions people ask