IB Maths AA vs Maths AI: What’s a better choice

IB Diploma Programme ( IBDP) Is a top-rated programme among students. This program enables students to prepare for their careers. It is mainly for the age group of 16-19 years. IB decided to divide maths courses a few years ago. These four courses are –

1. IB Mathematics- Analysis and Approaches ( AA) SL
2. IB Mathematics – Analysis and Approaches ( AA) HL
3. IB Mathematics- Applications and Interpretation ( AI) SL
4. Mathematics – Applications and Interpretation ( AI) HL

Students often need clarification about selecting the best mathematics for them. In this article, Our IB Tutor will explain all about it.

All four IB Maths Courses: IB Maths AA vs AI

Both AA & AI courses aim to enable students to enhance their skills in mathematics. Below is a table that demonstrate teaching hours required by each IBDP Math course.

	Number and Algebra	Functions	Geometry and Trigonometry	Statistics and Probability	Calculus
IB Maths AA HL	29	32	51	33	55
IB Maths AI HL	39	42	46	52	41
IB Maths AA SL	19	21	25	27	28
IB Maths AI SL	16	31	18	39	19

Pls cross check every information with IBO Website

How to select the most appropriate course IB Maths (AA) or (AI)

Both of these courses are equally important. And the selection between these two is essential for students. Their educational journey and career depend on the proper choice. This right selection will help them to score well. They will understand the concepts easily. Students feel motivated when they select the course of their own choice. We see better learning outcomes when students choose the topics of their own choice. But to understand which one is suitable, we need to dive deep into the syllabus, level of difficulty, and uses in life.

Syllabus, Level of Difficulty, and Uses in life

• AA Maths deals with Calculus, Algebra, Statistics, Probability, etc. Students learn complex mathematical concepts and principles in it. It encourages students to learn complicated math problems using intellectual knowledge. Students develop their critical thinking approach in it.
• IB Math AA HL & AA SL courses are ideal for students who are interested in abstract reasoning. Both these courses are useful for students who are planning to study Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics or Engineering at the university level. It aligns well with university expectations in highly mathematical disciplines.
• The use of a calculator decides how you proceed with the problems. Calculators are not allowed in AA Maths paper 1. It tests raw mathematical reasoning. At the same time, Calculator is allowed throughout AI Mathematics. It emphasizes model-based and practical solutions that are more useful in Business, Data related fields and Social Sciences.
• If the students are interested in economics, mathematics, engineering, or IB maths, AA is the best option. If the students are interested in Psychology or social science or they want to pursue business in the future, the best choice for them is Maths (AI).
• However, students should always cross-check the math requirements of specific universities and programs. For example, many engineering programs may require AA HL, while business programs may accept AI HL.
• If we go through the difficulty level of both courses, IB Maths ( AA) is more complex than IB Maths (AI). Maths (AA) deals with complicated mathematical concepts.IB Maths ( AA) is a good choice for students who opt for engineering in their college.
• Regarding the syllabus, IB Maths (AA) includes more Calculus than other topics. At the same time, IB Maths (AI) has more statistics than Calculus. 
• If we talk about the assessment pattern, there is no such difference in assessment criteria of IB Maths HL AA or IB Maths SL (AA) or (AI). The most significant difference is the use of technology while doing paper. 
• Total IBDP workload is a key factor to consider. Students do IA, EE, CAS & TOK, and three HL subjects. It is not advisable to take AA HL Maths with HL Science unless your university goals need it.
• Most universities prefer students who have selected HL courses in their IB diploma program. The choice is always given to HL AA, but many universities also consider HL AI. If you are interested in business, both courses are equally important, and you can quickly get admission to many universities worldwide.
• Students must take at least three HL subjects in the IBDP. You should choose HL Maths only if your interest and long-term goal require it. Otherwise, SL Maths can allow better performance across subjects.
• Students also choose their subjects according to their interests. If you love mathematics and solving mathematical concepts, you should opt for IB maths HL AA. But if you are not more into mathematics and love solving application-based mathematics, which you face daily, you should opt for IB maths, SL AA, or AI.

Here are a few Important points to remember before making a decision 

It’s not easy to conclude when deciding about your career. Here are a few essential suggestions for you. Take your decision smartly.

• Check your previous years’ performance.
• Take an opinion from an expert. 
• Decide on your course based on your future goal.
• Do a good survey about the university of your choice. Take decision accordingly. 
• Check the question papers from previous years to get an idea.
• Take the opinion of your senior students. 
• Take guidance from your teachers.

Students can go through an aptitude test to investigate if they are more comfortable with logic and solving algebraic expressions. Or they are attracted to practical scenarios and data interpretation. It is better to evaluate your interests and natural strengths in Mathematics.

Conclusion:

Now, you have a clear view of IB Mathematics HL AA, AI and IB Mathematics SL AA, AI. All the courses are designed to meet the needs of students. Your career depends on this decision. Take your decision wisely.
Remember, you can get admission to a good university with both AA & AI Mathematics. You can find the best fit for you by considering your interests, university requirements and future goals. Take time to research and consult before finalizing. Also, IBDP is a long journey, and you can revise your choice of subjects after a few initial weeks of study if you don’t find yourself comfortable.