IB past paper analysis
History SL
May 2026 · Paper 2
See what this paper tests, focus on the skills that carry the marks, and practise matched Exam Vault questions with AI marking.
- 8questions
- 120marks
- 8question parts
- 8micro-topics
Mark distribution
- Paper 2 · Emergence and development of democratic states (1848–2000)25%
- Paper 2 · Authoritarian states (20th century)25%
- Paper 2 · Causes and effects of 20th-century wars25%
- Paper 2 · The Cold War: Superpower tensions and rivalries (20th century)25%
Hardest areas (by marks)
- 1.Constitutions, institutions and political parties15 marks
- 2.Economic and social policies and the role of leaders15 marks
- 3.Methods used to establish authoritarian states15 marks
Question types
- discuss100%
0% of parts are show / prove.
Questions in this paper
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Explore topic pages
Every micro-topic in this paper, with its exam pattern and practice.
Browse History SL topicsPredicted questions
The likely question types in the next sitting, from the same data.
Predicted Paper 2Good to know
Can I download History SL May 2026 Paper 2 here?
No. The paper and its mark scheme belong to the IB and are not reproduced. This page gives the structure of every question (marks, command term, micro-topic, the skill tested), the exam analysis, and practice questions we wrote to test the same skills. Subscribers can also open our summary of how each part's marks are awarded.
Which topics dominate May 2026 Paper 2?
Paper 2 · Emergence and development of democratic states (1848–2000) 25% (typical 13%), Paper 2 · Authoritarian states (20th century) 25% (typical 13%), Paper 2 · Causes and effects of 20th-century wars 25% (typical 13%).
How do I practise this paper without the paper?
Press "Practise similar" on any question. We open questions matched by micro-topic, command term and mark range with model answers and AI marking, then bring you back here.