IB TOK Essay Source Checker

TOK Essay sources should support discussion of one prescribed title through knowledge arguments, claims, counterclaims, and real examples. Sources should not replace the student's own analysis of knowledge questions.

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Theory of Knowledge 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

Theory of Knowledge Essay

What usually works for Theory of Knowledge Essay

Usually strong

  • Real-world examples, academic/context sources, personal or course examples, and reputable evidence used to support TOK analysis.
  • Sources that help evaluate claims about knowledge in areas of knowledge.
  • AI outputs only if acknowledged and not treated as authority.

Example

A concise scientific case study used to examine reliability of models under a prescribed title.

Needs a second look

  • Overly detailed subject research.
  • Generic examples used by many students without personal analysis.
  • Uncited internet summaries.

Example

A news example that needs clearer link to knowledge claims.

Avoid or replace

  • Writing an essay about the source rather than the prescribed title.
  • AI-generated examples with invented details.
  • Long blocks of factual background.

Example

A whole article summary with no TOK analysis.

Where to find better Theory of Knowledge 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 writing an essay about the source rather than the prescribed title. with real-world examples, academic/context sources, personal or course examples, and reputable evidence used to support tok analysis..
  • Use overly detailed subject research. only as context unless your teacher confirms they can carry evidence.
  • Add one source that gives direct evidence for the Essay, not just general background.

Good places to look

  • Real-world examples, academic/context sources, personal or course examples, and reputable evidence used to support TOK analysis
  • Sources that help evaluate claims about knowledge in areas of knowledge
  • AI outputs only if acknowledged and not treated as authority

Questions people ask