Weighting is not the same as maximum points
A paper worth 80 raw marks is not automatically more important than an internal assessment worth 24 marks. Its importance is set by the percentage weighting. The raw score must first be divided by the component maximum, then multiplied by the component weighting.
Common assessment patterns
| Subject example | Level | Components and weights |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry / Physics | SL and HL | Paper 1: 36%; Paper 2: 44%; scientific investigation: 20% |
| Digital Society | SL | Paper 1: 40%; Paper 2: 30%; inquiry project: 30% |
| Digital Society | HL | Paper 1: 35%; Paper 2: 20%; Paper 3: 25%; inquiry project: 20% |
| Philosophy | SL | Paper 1: 50%; Paper 2: 25%; internal assessment: 25% |
| Philosophy | HL | Paper 1: 40%; Paper 2: 20%; Paper 3: 20%; internal assessment: 20% |
| Classical Languages: Latin | SL | Paper 1: 35%; Paper 2: 35%; research dossier: 30% |
| Classical Languages: Latin | HL | Paper 1: 30%; Paper 2: 30%; HL composition: 20%; research dossier: 20% |
| World Religions | SL | Paper 1: 30%; Paper 2: 45%; investigative study: 25% |
These examples illustrate configured assessment structures. Always verify the syllabus version and first-assessment year because subject guides change.
Why the calculator asks for individual components
Entering one overall percentage can hide the effect of unequal weightings. Separate controls let a student test a realistic scenario, such as improving a high-weight paper while leaving a lower-weight component unchanged.
Internal assessment moderation
A school mark entered into the calculator may not equal the final moderated mark. The official assessment process can adjust marks, and the calculator cannot predict moderation. Use the best available mark but treat the result as provisional.
Subjects with different assessment types
Arts and interdisciplinary courses may use performances, portfolios, comparative studies, presentations, or coursework rather than conventional papers. Their calculations follow the same principle: component percentage multiplied by official weighting.
Before calculating
- Confirm the exact subject and syllabus.
- Select SL or HL correctly.
- Match the examination time zone where applicable.
- Use component maximums from the relevant session.
- Check that all component weights total 100%.