For IB Diploma Programme students

Theory of Knowledge (TOK) is at the heart of the IB Diploma Programme, alongside the Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). It explores an important question: how do we know what we know?

TOK connects to all the subjects you study. It asks you to think about how knowledge is produced, understood, shared and challenged in different contexts. Although TOK is not a philosophy course, some of its ideas can seem abstract or difficult at first. This visual guide makes them easier to understand and shows you how to explore and respond to knowledge questions with confidence.

Theory of Knowledge: A Visual Guide uses illustrations, real-life examples and practical activities to show you how TOK works. It will help you apply TOK thinking in your lessons and prepare for the two assessed components: the TOK exhibition and the TOK essay.

The guide follows the TOK course, covering the core theme, Knowledge and the Knower, as well as the five optional themes and five Areas of Knowledge. You will also explore the knowledge framework and learn how it can be used to examine different areas and themes. Topics are colour-coded so you can quickly find what you need.

Inside, you will find:

• Images and visual explanations that make TOK ideas easier to understand.

• Real-life examples and knowledge questions to explore and discuss in class.

• Step-by-step guidance for the TOK exhibition, including choosing three objects and connecting them to one of the 35 IA prompts.

• Guidance on the TOK essay, including how to explore and respond to a prescribed title.

• "Try this" activities that help you practise TOK thinking and apply what you have learned.

• Clear explanations of TOK terminology and key words used throughout the course.

Use the guide alongside your TOK lessons to explore individual topics as you encounter them, or work through it to build your understanding of the course as a whole.

This work has been developed independently from and is not endorsed by the International Baccalaureate (IB).