epq example essay

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• How to Write an EPQ Essay

Writing an EPQ essay can seem like a daunting task, which is why we’ve written this nine-step guide to help make the whole process easier.

In addition to the A-Levels you’re already doing, you can choose to take an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification). An EPQ is an independent research project, and it’s extremely beneficial as it counts towards UCAS tariff points.

Consisting of around 5,000 words, an EPQ essay is an in-depth assignment which takes about 120 hours to complete.

That may seem like a lot of extra work to take on alongside your existing studies, however it can be hugely beneficial when applying to get into university.

Choosing to undertake independent research and reading can prove to future educators that you’re willing to take on extra work to really show what you can do academically, as well as demonstrating that you have interests that go beyond the curriculum. An EPQ sits nicely with a summer school course such as a law summer school , business summer school , engineering summer school and medicine summer school . During your course you have the chance to explore and understand your subject further, demonstrating your commitment to your studies, and develop ideas for your EPQ.

How do you write an EPQ essay?

To write an EPQ essay, you need to: come up with a compelling idea that you’re interested in, write down everything you know about the subject to generate further ideas, find the best essay question to use, reference your sources properly, write a sharp introduction and conclusion, get feedback on your essay, and make sure you double-check your work before submitting it.

The key to writing any extended document is planning, which is why we’ve written this nine-step guide to help you write the best EPQ essay.

Read on for our top tips on how to write an extended project essay.

9 steps to write your EPQ essay

1. come up with an idea.

One of the main reasons students fail their EPQ is because they’ve chosen the wrong subject matter. It’s vital that you choose a topic you’re genuinely interested in, otherwise you won’t have any motivation to work on it. Because of the extra workload, many students choose to start their EPQ over the summer holidays, and with all the distractions that summer brings (trips to the beach, sunbathing in the garden or hanging out with friends in the park) there’s even more reason to pick a subject you don’t find boring, or you’ll just look for any excuse to avoid doing it. Before finalising your topic, you might want to discuss your ideas with your supervisor so they can check you’re on the right track.

2. Write down everything you know about the subject.   

Before doing any extra reading, it’s really helpful to write down everything you already know about your chosen subject. This can help to get your thoughts and ideas – which are often jumbled up – out of your head and down onto a piece of paper or computer screen so that you can begin to organise and make sense of them. This is also useful for identifying any gaps in your knowledge. However, if the gaps in your knowledge are vast and your chosen topic isn’t giving you enough inspiration, don’t be afraid to abandon your original idea entirely and come up with something new. It’s better to start again from scratch at this stage, rather than 2,000 words in.

3. Think of a question

Whatever your chosen topic, you’ll need to think of a question to answer. This is an extremely important part of your EPQ and will form the basis of your essay, so it really is worth thinking long and hard about. The way in which you phrase your question or hypothesis will affect the structure and flow of the whole essay. For example, some typical essay question formats include ‘Compare and contrast’, ‘Critically evaluate’ and ‘Analyse and conclude’. The type of question you want to answer will affect whether you need to highlight and critique a number of theories or evaluate how useful a particular concept is. And remember that your extended project essay needs to be approximately 5,000 words long, so you should choose a question that allows for extended research and arguments. It’s also worth bearing in mind that questions without definitive answers are better as there will generally be much more to write about.

4. Research the topic

Next, you should start thinking about the main body of the essay and how you’re going to go about fleshing out your ideas. Ideally, this step should take up half the amount of total time you spend working on your EPQ essay. You should spend a good deal of time reading books, papers and online journals that have been written about your chosen subject. The Internet is an excellent source of information, but anyone can write anything and publish it online, so make sure your sources are credible and recognised by the examining body. Wikipedia, for example, should be avoided as a reliable source of information as anyone can edit the text that’s been written there. While doing your research, you’re going to come across many different opinions and arguments and it’s all going to come from a variety of sources. So now is also a good time to think about how you’re going to organise it all.

5. Remember to reference your sources

As with any piece of academic work, referencing your sources is vital so the examiners can check you’re not plagiarising. It’s also good to demonstrate that your information has come from a range of places so the person marking your essay can see that you’ve researched your topic widely and have considered several different viewpoints. You’ll need to provide a bibliography at the end of your EPQ essay and if you can’t say where your information has come from, you’ll be unable to use it, so it’s a good idea to get into the habit of doing this as you go along. Whether you choose to create a spreadsheet on your computer or annotate photocopies and clippings with a pen, it doesn’t matter how you go about doing this as long as you remember to do it. It’ll make your life so much easier in the long-run!

6. Create subsections

Splitting your essay up into sections can help to make sure you’re writing enough and exploring the topic in as much depth as possible. Keep your word count in mind when dividing up your essay and try to split each section equally. But while mini topics are good for breaking the 5,000 words down into more manageable chunks, you have to make sure each one relates back to your original question, otherwise you could risk wasting some of those words on irrelevant information. Don’t sacrifice the important stuff by shoehorning facts and figures into your chosen subsections. It’s worth thinking about the order of these sections too. It’s usually best to write in a ‘news story’ format, with the most important subtitles at the top and the less relevant stuff filtering down to the bottom, however you could consider working chronologically if that works better for your chosen topic.

7. Write an introduction and a conclusion

As strange as it sounds, it can be helpful to write your introduction and conclusion paragraphs once you’ve completed the main body of the essay. This is because your thoughts on the subject matter are more likely to be more organised, therefore it will be easier to summarise the main points clearly and concisely. Your first paragraph should introduce the subject matter, briefly expanding upon your question and how you’re going to go about answering it, while your conclusion should refer back to the title and answer the question you asked at the beginning of your essay. Ensure that both paragraphs are as direct and succinct as possible, in order to show that you have a clear understanding of your topic.

8. Ask for feedback

Whether it’s a friend, a relative or – even better – your course tutor, it’s a good idea to have your work checked over by someone else. Because you’ve spent hour upon hour absorbed in your subject matter, you can lose sight of certain things, so it makes sense to have your EPQ essay looked at from a different viewpoint. A second opinion can ensure that everything you’ve written is concise and accurate and the person checking your work can give you advice on what to leave out or add in; especially if they already have some knowledge on the subject matter.

9. Double-check everything before submitting your work

It’s a good idea to leave it a day or so before coming back to your essay to proofread it so that you’re viewing it with a fresh pair of eyes. We recommend going over it a couple of times – once to check that you’ve covered everything in terms of the subject matter and another for housekeeping. You want to ensure that you don’t lose any marks for basic things like spelling, punctuation and grammar. You should also take this time to make sure footnotes are accurate, as well as checking over any graphs, charts, diagrams and images.

We hope you’ve enjoyed reading this step-by-step guide and we’re confident that you now have everything you need to go on to successfully write an EPQ essay. Good luck!

Home › University › 600 EPQ Ideas and Examples – The Ultimate List

600 EPQ Ideas and Examples – The Ultimate List

• Published May 1, 2024

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) presents a unique opportunity for students studying in sixth form or college. Not only can you earn extra UCAS points to get into university, but you can also develop strong research and writing skills.

The first step is to come up with a great project idea, which is easier said than done. Fortunately, the choice is yours–you can complete your project on whatever topic you want. On the other hand, with so many possibilities, it can be tricky to narrow it down.

Want to better understand EPQ? Read our guide: What is an EPQ.

This article will give you 600 EPQ topic ideas on a range of subjects to help you choose a good question and, more importantly, get an A*.

How to Choose a Good EPQ Idea

Getting a good grade in the EPQ relies on several factors, including meticulous planning, solid time management, and strong essay writing skills . 

Your idea is important, too. Here are some tips for choosing an idea:

• Pick your passion: Choose a topic you’re genuinely passionate about to maintain motivation.
• Be specific: You only have 5000-6000 words for your dissertation. This might sound like a lot, but it can be difficult to cram all your ideas into this space. Being specific will help.
• Push boundaries: Markers like to see topics they haven’t encountered before. If your topic is more popular, try to look at it from a unique angle.

Below are 600 EPQ ideas (including artefact EPQ ideas) organised by subject (in alphabetical order). Some of these ideas are much more vague than you should be for your EPQ; it’s important to put your own spin on these ideas and find an interesting angle. If you’re struggling, your supervisor can help you narrow down a topic.

25 EPQ Ideas for Anthropology

• How does cultural relativism shape anthropological perspectives on human behaviour?
• To what extent does language influence cultural identity?
• In what ways do rituals and ceremonies reflect cultural beliefs and values?
• How has globalisation impacted indigenous cultures and traditional practices?
• To what extent can anthropology shed light on the evolution of human social structures?
• What role does gender play in shaping cultural norms?
• How do human migration patterns impact cultural exchange and identity?
• What can the food consumption of a society tell us about its cultural values and social structures?
• Can anthropology contribute to our understanding of human prehistory?
• How has technology altered the dynamics of anthropological fieldwork?
• Can anthropology address issues of cultural appropriation and stereotyping?
• What impact does climate change have on indigenous knowledge, and vice versa?
• To what extent can anthropology contribute to conflict resolution?
• How does the class system in the UK differ from those of other countries?
• In a post-pandemic world, what role can anthropology play in medicine?
• Is it important to preserve endangered cultures?
• What impact does tourism have on local communities?
• Is it important to respect cultural practices that may harm people?
• How do kinship systems influence social organisation?
• How has urbanisation affected the social structure of large human groups?
• Is it possible to define a singular, homogenous British culture?
• What can consumption patterns tell us about a particular society?
• What’s the difference between society and culture?
• Can language shape the way we view the world?
• Can online spaces like the Metaverse be considered their own society?

25 EPQ Ideas for Architecture

• How can architecture foster community engagement?
• What role does cultural identity play in shaping architectural design?
• How does sustainable architecture contribute to environmental conversation?
• In what ways can architectural design mitigate the impact of natural disasters?
• How does urban planning influence the mental well-being of city dwellers?
• Can changing architecture serve as a catalyst for economic development in urban areas?
• How do historic preservation strategies balance tradition and innovation?
• What factors should architects consider when designing for aging populations?
• How can architecture promote a healthier lifestyle?
• What challenges and opportunities does inclusive design present for architects?
• How does the style of council housing feed into stereotypes about class?
• How can architects revitalise abandoned urban spaces?
• How does architecture influence human behaviour in public spaces?
• What impact does architectural iconography have on the identity of a place?
• What lessons can architects learn from pandemic responses in designing for health?
• Was the Grenfell Tower a complete architectural failure?
• What can architecture tell us about politics?
• In what ways does minimalist architecture correspond with contemporary societal values?
• What is the effect of feminism on architecture?
• How can architects incorporate biophilic design principles into modern urban environments?
• To what extent is architectural design a form of art?
• How can technologies such as VR and AR benefit the architectural industry?
• Were the houses of the past of higher quality?
• How does architectural lighting impact the perception of spaces?
• How can architects design for climate resilience in vulnerable regions?

25 EPQ Ideas for Art

• How does art reflect and influence cultural identity?
• To what extent does street art challenge traditional notions of public space?
• How can art be utilised as a form of social and political commentary?
• In what ways does the digital age impact contemporary art creation and consumption?
• To what extent can images created by artificial intelligence (AI) be considered art?
• Can art serve as a therapeutic outlet for mental health expression and recovery?
• How did impressionism reflect the sociopolitical environment of the late 1800s?
• What role does public art play in enhancing urban environments?
• How does art education impact development in children and adolescents?
• How can art contribute to environmental awareness and sustainability?
• What impact does public funding have on the accessibility of art institutions?
• How does art respond to and reflect changing gender norms?
• How can art museums adapt to the digital age to enhance visitor engagement?
• In what ways does art challenge or reinforce stereotypes?
• What role does art play in shaping public memory and commemoration?
• How has globalisation influenced contemporary artistic trends?
• Can art bridge the generation gap?
• Who decides what is defined as ‘art’?
• Should street artists be allowed to graffiti on walls?
• What can the vandalism of Barnett Newman’s Who’s Afraid of Red, Yellow, and Blue tell us about the way people view art?
• Who determines the value of art?
• Why do humans create art, and why have they done so for thousands of years?
• Can art be considered a form of language?
• Who determines the meaning of artwork, the creator or the viewer?
• Is it worth creating art if nobody sees it?

25 EPQ Ideas for Biology

• How do genetics influence self-esteem?
• How can gene editing technologies revolutionise medicine?
• How do neurotransmitters contribute to mental health disorders?
• Can synthetic biology offer solutions to environmental challenges?
• In what ways does the gut-brain axis influence mental well-being?
• What is the biology of laughter?
• To what extent can CRISPR technology be applied ethically and safely in humans?
• What genes have an influence on human behaviour?
• What factors contribute to the spread of antibiotic resistance in bacteria?
• Why do some people use parasites for weight loss, and what are the implications of this?
• How do circadian rhythms affect human health and performance?
• Could genetic engineering address environmental pollution?
• Is addiction a genetic or social issue?
• Will brain transplants ever be viable?
• How does the UK’s changing climate affect biodiversity?
• How can hormones influence behaviour?
• Can biotechnology address the global food insecurity crisis?
• Can gut microbiota affect the host’s appetite?
• To what extent can animal evolutionary traits inspire innovations in technology and engineering?
• What impact has the grey squirrel had on the distribution of native red squirrels in the UK?
• Are animals as “smart” as humans?
• What are the ethical implications of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in our food supply?
• How does air pollution affect the respiratory health of a given population?
• What is the role of the immune system in auto-immune diseases?
• Why do humans living in “Blue Zones” have lower incidences of chronic disease than elsewhere?

25 EPQ Ideas for Business

• How does corporate social responsibility impact consumer perceptions and purchasing behaviour?
• To what extent can employee motivation impact organisational performance?
• Can environmentally sustainable business practices lead to long-term financial success?
• How do social media marketing strategies influence consumer decision-making?
• How does leadership style impact employee productivity?
• In what ways does corporate governance affect organisational success?
• Can entrepreneurship drive economic development in local communities?
• What role does emotional intelligence play in effective business leadership?
• In what ways can businesses effectively manage and leverage diversity?
• Can AI enhance business operations and efficiency?
• Should businesses outsourcing to developing countries pay workers the same they would at home?
• Should businesses pay apprentices more?
• What has changed for women in the workplace since 1900?
• To what extent can the government be considered a business?
• Should there be a salary cap for CEOs?
• How has e-commerce affected physical retail locations?
• Will Amazon Go change supermarket shopping forever?
• Should the government lower the corporate income tax?
• How has social media changed the landscape of marketing?
• To what extent can football clubs be considered businesses?
• How can AI contribute to informed decision-making for business owners?
• What makes a successful start-up?
• How ethical are Amazon’s business practices?
• What responsibility do businesses have to their consumers?
• To what extent do small businesses rely on digital marketing strategies?

25 EPQ Ideas for Chemistry

• How can green chemistry principles contribute to sustainable industrial practices?
• To what extent can nanotechnology revolutionise drug delivery systems?
• In what ways do catalysts impact reaction rates in chemical processes?
• Can chemistry provide solutions for efficient energy storage?
• How did chemistry help us understand the COVID-19 pandemic?
• Can an understanding of chemistry help in the development of anti-aging products?
• What impact does polymer chemistry have on materials science and engineering?
• How does fluoride impact the water supply?
• How does analytical chemistry contribute to forensic science and criminal investigations?
• How can green solvents impact the environmental sustainability of chemical processes?
• At what point does a chemical become a hallucinogen?
• How did optical isomerism impact the drug Thalidomide, which caused fetal abnormalities?
• To what extent can chemotherapy drugs be targeted using medicinal chemistry techniques?
• How do organometallic compounds contribute to catalysis in industrial processes?
• How do metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) contribute to gas storage and separation?
• Can cheminformatics improve the prediction of chemical properties and toxicity?
• How can click chemistry be used to improve drug synthesis?
• How do photovoltaic cells work?
• Did the discovery of pharmaceutical chemicals change the course of history?
• Can cannabis use in adolescence cause mental health issues like schizophrenia?
• What are the benefits of computer-based, fragment-aided drug design?
• Why doesn’t plastic decompose?
• What are the chemicals involved in the human conception of love?
• Project: Make a collection of pleasant-smelling esters.
• Project: Extract limonene from a range of citrus fruits.

25 EPQ Ideas for Computer Science

• How can machine learning algorithms improve fraud detection in financial transactions?
• In what ways does natural language processing contribute to the development of intelligent chatbots?
• To what extent can blockchain technology enhance data security and integrity?
• To what extent can explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) improve trust in AI systems?
• Should we teach children to code in school?
• Are AI-assessed job applications inevitably biased?
• Will AI create or diminish the number of jobs available?
• What impact does cybersecurity have on the reliability of Internet of Things (IoT) devices?
• To what extent can machine learning predict and prevent cyber attacks?
• What role does augmented reality (AR) play in enhancing the user experience of mobile apps?
• How accurately can AI writing assistants (like Grammarly) express human language?
• Are AI-powered robots responsible for their own actions?
• The impact of technology on the future of law enforcement and criminal justice?
• Has technology made our daily lives more or less secure?
• Has widespread technology led to an increase in crime?
• How will 5G change our lives?
• How does parallel computing improve the performance of computational models?
• In what ways can deep learning algorithms contribute to medical image analysis?
• What role does computer vision play in image recognition and object detection?
• How does edge computing address challenges in real-time data processing?
• Can artificial general intelligence (AGI) be achieved?
• Can AI models be applied ethically to facilitate sensitive decision-making?
• How can we improve human-computer interaction to increase accessibility?
• Is internet access a human right?
• Project: Create a website and code it yourself.

25 EPQ Ideas for Economics

• Should the government implement a universal basic income?
• How does automation impact employment rates and income distribution in developed economies?
• Is capitalism ethical?
• Can economic incentives effectively address environmental issues?
• How has the Russo-Ukrainian war impacted the global trade economy?
• What would be the economic implications of a country adopting cryptocurrency as its official currency?
• Should countries prioritise economic growth or environmental sustainability?
• How does income inequality affect social cohesion?
• Can the circular economy model contribute to long-term economic sustainability?
• What economic factors contribute to the success or failure of international development aid programs?
• To what extent does government intervention influence economic stability during times of crisis, like the COVID-19 pandemic?
• How does an ageing population impact a country’s economic prospects?
• Is the concept of a ‘sharing economy’ a viable solution to address times of financial hardship?
• To what extent does access to education influence economic mobility?
• What impact did Brexit have on the UK economy?
• What factors contribute to the success or failure of economic sanctions as a foreign policy tool?
• How do interest rate changes impact consumer spending?
• Should governments prioritise economic growth or economic stability during times of crisis?
• How does income inequality impact access to healthcare and health outcomes?
• Why is paying taxes important?
• To what extent does the gig economy contribute to financial insecurity?
• How often should the minimum wage be reviewed?
• How does the rise of e-commerce impact brick-and-mortar retail and local economies?
• Does hosting a global event, such as the FIFA World Cup, benefit a country’s economy?
• How can the government address the housing crisis?

25 EPQ Ideas for Education

• How does technology impact student learning outcomes in primary education?
• To what extent does the quality of early childhood education influence later academic success?
• How can inclusive education practices benefit students?
• How does the school environment contribute to student engagement and academic performance?
• Is project-based learning an effective approach to enhancing critical thinking skills in secondary school students?
• What role does teacher training play in addressing the challenges of multicultural classrooms?
• To what extent does standardised testing accurately reflect student abilities?
• How does the flipped classroom model impact student achievement?
• Is the education system indoctrinating students?
• Should school uniforms be enforced?
• How can the education system better cater to students with high-functioning autism?
• Does banning mobile phones in school do more harm than good?
• Should parents have a say in what children are taught at school?
• Can schools effectively teach mental health and well-being?
• Do exams unfairly advantage boys, and why?
• How can schools address the digital divide?
• To what extent do extracurricular activities impact the development of secondary school students?
• Can outdoor education programs enhance creativity and problem-solving skills in primary students?
• Can alternative education models, such as homeschooling or unschooling, provide effective learning environments?
• What impact does the student-teacher relationship have on learning outcomes?
• What role does parental involvement play in student success?
• To what extent does parental socio-economic status influence educational opportunities?
• How important are creative subjects, like art and music, in secondary school?
• Should sports be compulsory at secondary school?
• How can teachers account for different learning preferences?

25 EPQ Ideas for Engineering

• How can sustainable engineering practices be implemented in urban development?
• To what extent can artificial intelligence enhance predictive maintenance in industrial engineering?
• How does 3D printing impact traditional manufacturing processes in the aerospace industry?
• Can engineering solutions effectively address the challenges of renewable energy storage?
• How can smart materials revolutionise civil engineering?
• In what ways can engineering design optimise water treatment and purification systems?
• Should the focus of transportation engineering shift toward autonomous modes of transport like self-driving cars?
• Why is there a gender imbalance in engineering?
• What’s the relation between architecture and engineering?
• Did the Titanic sink due to engineering faults?
• Can engineering innovation improve accessibility for people with disabilities?
• Would it be possible to run the UK entirely on energy from wind farms?
• How can engineering solutions address climate change challenges in coastal areas?
• In what ways can engineering principles be applied to enhance disaster resilience in infrastructure?
• What does it mean to be ethical as an engineer?
• How can a better understanding of robotics enhance efficiency and safety in manufacturing?
• How does bioengineering contribute to advancements in prosthetics and medical devices?
• What role does materials engineering play in developing sustainable packaging?
• What does the future of transport look like?
• How can advancements in aerodynamics and materials engineering help to create a more energy-efficient Formula 1 race car?
• What role does geotechnical engineering play in addressing challenges related to soil stability and landslides?
• Is genetic engineering the future of medicine?
• Should children be taught engineering in primary school?
• Project: Build a model plane or boat.
• Project: Design a modern solution for plastic recycling.

25 EPQ Ideas for English Literature 

• How does the portrayal of female characters in classic literature reflect changing societal attitudes toward women?
• To what extent does the use of symbolism contribute to the depth and meaning of Shakespearean tragedies?
• How does post-colonial literature challenge established perspectives on identity and power?
• How has the representation of mental health evolved in literature?
• Is it important to teach media literacy?
• What role does the unreliable narrator play in shaping the reader’s interpretation of a story?
• How does magical realism contribute to the themes and messages of contemporary literature?
• In what ways do graphic novels challenge the traditional notions of literature and storytelling?
• How has the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters evolved in literature, and how does this impact societal perceptions?
• To what extent does the setting contribute to the atmosphere and mood in Gothic literature?
• How does the use of dialect and language contribute to the authenticity of regional literature?
• Can a study of literary adaptions for film and television provide insights into changing audience expectations?
• How does the concept of the ‘Byronic hero’ persist in modern literature and popular culture?
• To what extent does F. Scott Fitzgerald’s use of narrative perspective impact the portrayal of the American Dream in ‘The Great Gatsby’?
• How does the narrative structure in Virginia Woolf’s ‘Mrs Dalloway’ enhance the exploration of time and consciousness?
• Can the analysis of allegory and satire in George Orwell’s ‘Animal Farm’ offer insights into political and societal commentary?
• What does the popularity of TikTok’s ‘BookTok’ hashtag tell us about changing literary preferences?
• To what extent does the use of magical realism in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ contribute to the portrayal of Latin American culture?
• The author John Green frequently says that “books belong to their readers”. Is this true?
• How do platforms like Wattpad change what it means to be an author?
• Can fan fiction be considered a form of literature?
• Can works of literature oppress their female characters?
• What books should be taught in schools, and why?
• What makes a novel ‘great’?
• How does the portrayal of gender roles in Charlotte Brontë’s ‘Jane Eyre’ challenge or conform to Victorian societal norms?

25 EPQ Ideas for Ethics

• How can we address the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in policing?
• To what extent does the use of biometric data in surveillance impact individual privacy?
• How does the ethical framework of medical consent adapt to the challenges posed by telemedicine and remote healthcare?
• What are the ethical challenges posed by social media algorithms and their impact on information dissemination?
• Is it ethical to use autonomous drones in warfare and surveillance?
• Are designer babies ethical?
• How can we address the implications of deepfake technology?
• Do businesses have a responsibility to act sustainably?
• Do humans have a right to explore space?
• Should embryos have protected rights?
• Should students be taught ethics in school?
• Who decides what is ethical?
• Is it ethical to test for disabilities like Down’s Syndrome in unborn babies?
• Is cloning ethical?
• Should people undergo an assessment to vote?
• Do consumers have an ethical obligation to consider where material goods come from?
• Can ethical principles guide international cooperation in addressing public health crises?
• What are the ethical implications of using AI during the hiring process?
• Should people be able to sue their parents for bringing them into the world?
• Are morals innate or socially conditioned?
• Do celebrities have a right to privacy?
• Do countries have an obligation to take on refugees?
• Is it ethical to experiment on animals?
• Can the ends ever justify the means?
• Can ethics improve the world?

25 EPQ Ideas for Geography

• How does climate change influence migration patterns?
• How can GIS technology address urban sprawl and land-use planning?
• Can sustainable agriculture mitigate the impact of food insecurity?
• How did the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami affect tourism in Thailand?
• How does the study of cultural landscapes inform heritage conservation?
• To what extent can sustainable tourism protect biodiversity in fragile ecosystems?
• How does water scarcity contribute to geopolitical tensions?
• Can better urban planning prevent the development of slums?
• Does the earth belong more to humans or animals?
• Does the placement of global supply routes inherently cause economic inequality?
• Is tourism good or bad?
• Should international borders exist?
• Can the study of coastal geography inform effective strategies for managing and adapting to sea-level rise?
• How does climate change influence patterns of disease migration?
• What are the environmental and social impacts of fracking?
• How do historical factors shape migration patterns and refugee flows?
• Can the study of plate tectonics help us predict earthquakes?
• What role does geopolitics play in shaping global resource distribution?
• What impact does infrastructure development have on regional economic disparities?
• What are the challenges presented by aging populations?
• Does the concept of sustainable development apply to resource extraction industries?
• Will Antarctica ever be habitable?
• Can a developing country ever become a developed nation?
• How does agriculture affect soil health?
• Should active volcanoes be tourist spots?

25 EPQ Ideas for History

• How did the Industrial Revolution transform social structures in 19th-century Britain?
• How did colonialism shape the cultural, economic, and political development of Tanzania during and after independence?
• Can the study of historical pandemics offer insights for future action?
• What role did propaganda play in influencing German public opinion during World War II?
• To what extent did the women’s suffrage movement contribute to advancements in gender equality?
• How did the Age of Enlightenment influence the development of political thought and institutions in Europe?
• How did the Reformation impact religious practices in 16th-century England?
• How did the Silk Road facilitate cultural exchange and economic development between the East and West?
• Who was Jack the Ripper?
• Are school history textbooks biased?
• How has fashion changed in the UK since the Middle Ages?
• Are works of fiction and art valid historical sources?
• How did the Scientific Revolution challenge traditional beliefs?
• Can the study of historical urbanisation patterns inform contemporary urban planning?
• What singular invention changed the course of history?
• Is history important for the future?
• How did the Cold War impact political ideologies and power dynamics?
• What can mainstream media tell us about historical political conflicts?
• To what extent did the Spanish Inquisition contribute to religious intolerance in Europe?
• How did the intellectual movements of the 1920s shape the character of the Roaring Twenties?
• How did the Opium Wars influence the socio-economic and political trajectory of 19th-century China?
• Did historical maritime exploration directly contribute to the establishment of modern global trade networks?
• Can the study of historical diplomacy offer insights into contemporary geopolitical challenges?
• How did the Green Revolution impact global agriculture and food production in the mid-20th century?

25 EPQ Ideas for Languages

• How did modern English come to be?
• What can cultural differences in ‘baby talk’ tell us about language acquisition?
• Can languages be considered alive?
• Is it important to preserve endangered languages?
• Can language influence our perceptions of time and space?
• How does bilingualism impact cognitive function?
• What role does translation play in understanding foreign literature?
• Is Scots a language or a dialect?
• How does technology aid in language learning?
• Should English have a language academy like The French Academy?
• Why did the Esperanto language policy fail?
• Is the Latin alphabet a good writing system?
• Can studying linguistic variation contribute to more effective education approaches?
• Is body language universal?
• Should learning sign language be mandatory?
• Is brail a language?
• Should we develop a universal lingua franca?
• How does the evolution of slang reflect societal changes and trends?
• How do language ideologies shape language policies?
• Are multilingual people more successful?
• Can language use reflect your identity?
• Is there a ‘correct’ way to speak a language?
• Will AI change the way we translate languages?
• How far back can we trace languages?
• Why is English so widespread?

25 EPQ Ideas for Law

• To what extent do privacy laws adequately protect individuals in the digital age?
• Who is responsible for implementing and upholding laws in the Metaverse?
• How has international law addressed the challenges of cyber warfare?
• How does the concept of corporate personhood impact legal liability in business?
• Can legal frameworks effectively address challenges in AI, such as algorithmic bias?
• How effective is international humanitarian law in mitigating humanitarian crises?
• Is there a legal responsibility to regulate emerging technologies?
• How do intellectual property laws balance the rights of creators in the digital era?
• How does the legal concept of self-defense apply to cyber-attacks?
• What impact do extradition laws have on transnational crime and terrorism?
• Does the legal system protect individuals’ rights in the context of surveillance technologies and mass data collection?
• How has the legal definition of marriage evolved and how does this impact society?
• How can environmental laws address the challenges of biodiversity loss?
• Should gene editing be legal?
• How do antitrust laws contribute to maintaining competition and preventing monopolies in the digital age?
• In what ways do laws regarding data protection and privacy impact the development of smart cities?
• Do animals deserve legal rights?
• How can legal frameworks address the challenges of regulating self-driving vehicles?
• How can the law address racial and ethnic discrimination in the criminal justice system?
• Are juries inevitably flawed?
• How does the law help society?
• How can freedom of speech laws adapt to the challenges presented by social media?
• What needs to be considered when creating a new law?
• Who should the law protect?
• How do laws that address gender-based violence contribute to social attitudes about gender inequality?

25 EPQ Ideas for Maths

• How can mathematical models predict climate change?
• To what extent can mathematical models enhance cybersecurity measures?
• How does the application of mathematical techniques improve supply chain efficiency? 
• Can mathematical modeling provide insights into the spread and containment of infectious diseases like COVID-19?
• Should students be forced to take maths at A-Level?
• How do mathematical concepts influence the development of AI?
• How can mathematical modelling inform traffic management?
• How can game theory shape strategic decision-making in business?
• Can number theory principles be applied to enhance the security of cryptographic systems?
• What has been the most impactful mathematical discovery to date?
• How does the study of chaos theory inform our understanding of complex systems in nature?
• How useful is generative AI for solving mathematical problems?
• Should maths education focus more on applied mathematics?
• Has maths always existed?
• Can mathematical analysis contribute to the optimisation of renewable energy systems?
• How does graph theory contribute to the optimisation of network design and communications systems?
• Can mathematical principles guide fair voting systems in democratic processes?
• What impact does mathematical symmetry have on artistic disciplines?
• What role does probability theory play in risk management?
• Is the concept of infinity useful?
• What was the role of maths in the code-breaking at Bletchley Park?
• How does maths inform the systems behind cryptocurrencies?
• To what extent can mathematical analysis contribute to predicting and managing financial market fluctuations?
• Can mathematical algorithms enhance personalised learning experiences?
• Should maths be optional in secondary school?

25 EPQ Ideas for Medicine

• Is personalised medicine the way forward?
• To what extent can telemedicine improve healthcare accessibility?
• Can machine learning and AI be effectively used in medical diagnostics?
• What role do social factors play in health disparities?
• How can robotics benefit minimally invasive surgical procedures?
• How can medical professionals balance patient autonomy with ethical considerations in end-of-life care?
• Is there a place for alternative medicine in Western healthcare?
• What impact do lifestyle factors have on longevity?
• Is gene therapy a viable option for managing genetic diseases?
• Were the public health interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic sufficient?
• Is nanomedicine the future of targeted drug delivery?
• Can medical interventions address the rising global prevalence of non-communicable diseases like diabetes?
• How does medical anthropology contribute to the understanding of healthcare?
• Could 3D printing technology provide the solution for personalised medical implants and prosthetics?
• Why are girls underdiagnosed when it comes to autism?
• Do government health incentives like putting calories on menus affect public health outcomes?
• Is plastic surgery a solution to body dysmorphic disorder?
• What is the effect of race and ethnicity on health outcomes during hospital treatment>
• What are the arguments for legalising medical cannabis?
• Did the Ancient Egyptians truly understand illness and medicine?
• Are we treating mental health disorders correctly?
• How can advancements in neurotechnology contribute to the treatment of brain injuries?
• Is preventative healthcare more important than treatment?
• Should healthcare be public?
• Should organ donation be mandatory?

25 EPQ Ideas for Physics

• How does quantum entanglement challenge our understanding of particle physics?
• Can string theory provide a unified explanation for the fundamental forces in the universe?
• Is the study of the universe important?
• Can advancements in quantum computing revolutionise information processing?
• Is time linear?
• Is nuclear power a viable future resource?
• Can the study of gravitational waves contribute to our understanding of black hole mergers?
• Can physics prove (or disprove) the existence of God?
• Could the moon be a tourist destination?
• How far can humans realistically travel in space?
• Is physics a male-dominated field and why?
• What role does physics play in daily life?
• Are any laws of physics breakable?
• Do parallel universes exist?
• What implications do the laws of physics have on free will?
• How can concepts in physics, like light and colour, influence art?
• How does physics inform our understanding of the origins of the universe?
• What was the role of Mileva Meric, Albert Einstein’s wife, in his findings?
• Should we eliminate nuclear weapons?
• What is the most important discovery in physics?
• How can physics be used to prevent climate change?
• What is the role of physics in medicine?
• What happens when the Sun dies?
• Will humans ever live on another planet?
• Project: Design and build a robot.

25 EPQ Ideas for Politics

• How does the voting system affect representation in democratic elections?
• To what extent do political debates influence public opinion?
• How do local policies impact the daily lives of citizens?
• Can political cartoons effectively convey complex political issues?
• What role does diplomacy play in resolving international conflict?
• How do modern political campaigns leverage social media?
• How can citizens actively participate in local government decision-making?
• What impact does the media’s portrayal of political leaders have on public perception?
• Should politics prioritise the needs of marginalised communities?
• How does the electoral college system influence presidential elections in the United States?
• How can governments increase youth participation in politics?
• Should politics be mandatory in schools?
• Should businesses be allowed to lobby governments?
• Should freedom of speech be protected at all costs?
• Do we need new political systems to govern international cyber-space (e.g. the Metaverse)?
• Should National Service be mandatory?
• Is the government’s responsibility to address climate change?
• Should there always be a separation of church and state?
• What were the main factors that led to Brexit?
• Does the government have a right to ban protests?
• How can the government reduce voter apathy?
• Is the national government more important than councils?
• Should Scotland be allowed a second referendum?
• Is there a fair representation of working-class people in the government?
• Should there be a global system of governance?

25 EPQ Ideas for Psychology

• How does the nature vs. nurture debate help us understand human behaviour?
• How do cultural factors influence mental health?
• Can cognitive psychology help us understand memory disorders?
• What makes humans happy?
• Can psychological research contribute to the prevention of substance abuse and addiction?
• What impact does sleep have on cognitive function?
• How does evolutionary psychology explain human mating behaviours and relationship dynamics?
• Can psychology explain the motivations for bullying and cyberbullying?
• What were the effects of isolation during COVID-19 lockdowns?
• Do gender-neutral toys give children less restrictive views of gender?
• Can education in psychology prevent bullying in schools?
• Does the media portrayal of mental health issues make it hard for teenagers to seek help?
• Do ethical constraints on research hinder our understanding of psychology?
• Can cannabis use cause schizophrenia?
• Is psychology a science?
• What effect does bipolar disorder have on the family of the patient?
• Do our genes or our experiences shape who we are?
• Do different cultures see mental health in different ways?
• Can psychology help us break bad habits?
• Why does the placebo effect happen?
• Is future criminal behaviour always evident in childhood?
• Why do people fall in love?
• How does online behaviour affect mental well-being?
• Can talking therapy help with anxiety?
• Is a full state of focus feasible for the human brain?

25 EPQ Ideas for Religious Studies

• Are science and religion the same?
• What role do religious rituals have in fostering a sense of community?
• Do Muslims and Christians share the same God?
• How do religious beliefs influence moral decision-making?
• Can religious texts explain cultural values?
• Is there an afterlife?
• What impact do religious teachings have on attitudes toward the environment?
• Is religious teaching the best way to create peace?
• In what ways do art and architecture reflect religious beliefs?
• How do religious practices contribute to individual well-being?
• How does the concept of forgiveness vary across different religions?
• How do religious leaders contribute to community development?
• Why is Christianity declining in the United Kingdom?
• What role does storytelling play in religious traditions?
• Why do some religions spread while others remain small?
• Why are certain animals considered sacred?
• How do holidays and festivals strengthen religious identity?
• Can the concept of karma influence ethical behaviour?
• What impact does religious pluralism have on society?
• How does Catholicism address the concept of suffering?
• What’s the difference between a cult and a religion?
• Does religion have a place in politics?
• How did the history of the church shape today’s society?
• Why are there different branches in major religions?
• Can studying religious history prevent future conflicts?

25 EPQ Ideas for Sociology

• Is the nuclear family structure important?
• How does education enforce or challenge social inequality?
• Does social media perpetuate negative perceptions of body image?
• Would studying sociology prevent bullying in schools?
• Why does racism exist?
• Is social media eroding our social skills?
• Does class really have an impact on access to opportunities?
• How do gender roles influence career choices?
• Can studying subcultures provide insights into youth identity?
• How does migration impact cultural diversity?
• Why do certain communities experience higher crime rates?
• How does socialisation contribute to individual identity?
• Can sociology help us understand voting patterns?
• Can sociology create positive social change?
• Does globalisation have a positive or negative impact on local cultures?
• How do religious beliefs influence social attitudes?
• Why are certain occupations gender-dominated?
• Can sociology inform effective public health campaigns?
• What is the next wave of feminism?
• Why do certain age groups experience social isolation?
• Who is to blame for poverty?
• What effect could polyamorous families have on children?
• How does technology impact social interactions among different generations?
• Has sociology neglected the study of emotions?
• How do social expectations influence individual choices about marriage and family?

25 EPQ Ideas for Sport

• What role does teamwork play in the success of a sports team?
• How important are grassroots sports for social inclusion and community engagement?
• How do sports influence cultural identity and national pride?
• Why are some sports more popular in specific countries?
• Why do people engage in recreational sports?
• Why has women’s football been so slow to develop in the UK compared to men’s football?
• Do popular sports enforce or challenge gender stereotypes?
• Should trans athletes be allowed to compete in standard leagues?
• What can sports rivalries tell us about cultural tensions?
• Can football ultras be considered a subculture movement?
• What are the effects of an international event like the Olympics on the host country?
• How does the accessibility of sports facilities impact participation rates?
• Should sports be mandatory in secondary schools?
• Can sports promote cultural exchange between nations?
• Is Financial Fair Play (FFP) an effective tool for enforcing fairness among football clubs?
• Do sports contribute to the development of social skills in children?
• Why do people engage in sports fandom?
• Why do female footballers experience higher rates of ACL injury than their male counterparts?
• What can sports history tell us about society at the time?
• Should sports clubs make more effort to be diverse and inclusive?
• Who decides what is a sport?
• Do high-level athletes have a responsibility to be role models?
• Should professional athletes be paid more than medical professionals?
• How can we fix the pay gap in sports?
• What is the impact of genetics on sporting success?

Which EPQ Topic Should You Choose?

The ideas above are just a taster for popular EPQ subjects to inspire you. Remember, you can choose any topic you like. Since you’ll be spending six months researching and writing an essay about your chosen topic, it needs to be something you’re interested in.

Hopefully, these EPQ ideas have helped you figure out how to form an interesting question. By putting your own personal spin on an interesting idea, you can start down your pathway to getting a great EPQ grade.

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400+ EPQ Ideas and Examples for All Subjects (2024)

Dr Rahil Sachak-Patwa

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a unique opportunity for students to explore a topic of their choosing and develop research and independent study skills. Offered to students in their final year of A-Levels , the EPQ is a valuable addition to any student's academic portfolio, as it provides an opportunity to demonstrate skills in critical thinking, research, and project management that are highly valued by universities and employers alike.

Arguably the best part about the EPQ is that you get to select your own ideas for your project. And the worst part? You have to select your own ideas for your project. For most people, their EPQs are the first time they get to explore their chosen area of interest in depth. Save for some requirements, you can technically take this project in any direction you fancy. But this level of freedom can be daunting, especially when you have to choose a project idea and title.

What makes for a good title? Are there any limitations? How can you make your project stand out? Let’s find out how to get an A* in your EPQ in 2024!

How to Choose A Good EPQ Idea

The EPQ assessment criteria are a good reference point to embark on your EPQ journey. Across these four assessment objective areas, you’re able to get a feel for what sort of thing the examiners are looking for.

Touching on each of these, a student that wants an A* in EPQ would need to:

• AO1 - Understand how to plan out a project thoroughly and then execute that plan.
• AO2 - Navigate their own research, as well as understand how to break down other academic pieces to extract information that supports their project.
• AO3 - Solve problems using skills like planning, logic, researching, or new technologies that they encounter during their EPQ project. This is the area where students get the most marks, meaning great EPQ ideas should always have a level of development and progression to them. How are you getting from points A-B?
• AO4 - Within the EPQ essay, students need to be able to accurately review their entire project, outlining the curves in the road and any blocks that they overcame to get to their final destination.

Across these assessment areas, EPQ students will have their ideas tested and explored. The brilliance of a great EPQ idea is that students can explore a topic that they find interesting, all while strengthening their university application.

Source - EPQ Assessment Criteria

However, the rubric isn’t enough to tell you whether your idea is any good to begin with. Instead, here are some key pointers you can use to guarantee an A*.

The best EPQ ideas share the following criteria:

• Relevant Ideas
• Narrow Scope
• Interdisciplinary
• Push boundaries

Let’s break these down further.

Make It Relevant

A good EPQ research project is one that is relevant to the context of the modern world. Now, this doesn’t mean that you can’t orient your project around historical events. On the contrary, referring to the past is a great way of substantiating your project. The key, however, is to link it to issues of contemporary relevance. For example, you can use historical plagues to analyse the long-term effects of COVID-19.

Understanding how your topic has an impact on the modern world, or could have a direct effect on the future, is a great way of including this level of relevancy. If you’re doing a history EPQ, you don’t want to only focus on what happened, you want to explain why this matters.

You should carry this idea throughout the whole of your EPQ, ensuring that your project is relevant and ticks all the assessment objective boxes.

Narrow It Down

Some research projects are so extensive in their scope that making them relevant to the modern context isn’t enough. Instead, you have to narrow your EPQ research down to a specific country, city, or even a community. Remember: you can’t possibly tackle all issues in all countries across all members of society. Otherwise, your research becomes too generalising and consequently loses its merit.

There’s a subtle balance between breadth and depth when it comes to choosing an EPQ idea. On one hand, you want to pick something that’s broad enough that you have lots to talk about. Yet, go too broad and you’ll have too much to say in too few words, leading to a shallow analysis. We suggest that you pick an idea that has a narrow focus but one that you can talk about from multiple perspectives.

Try to balance breadth and depth within your EPQ project.

Adopt An Interdisciplinary Approach

You’ll notice that most of the ideas listed in this post are interdisciplinary. In other words, they borrow from various disciplines and subjects. This leads on directly from having a good balance of breadth and depth. Instead of just focusing on one small detail, noticing how topics transect different subjects is a vital part of the EPQ.

Of course, you’d be hard-pressed to find a topic that has absolutely nothing to do with any other subject than itself. Even when focusing on a scientific question, the interdisciplinary links across sciences, health studies, and medicine, allow students to broaden their approach.

Always try and choose an EPQ idea that has interdisciplinary studies at its center. There are always common links across subjects, you just have to find them.

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Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

While you should stick to your interests, by and large, a good EPQ is one where you learn something new or develop a new skill. The only way to do so is by stepping outside your comfort zone and pursuing topics that are somewhat unfamiliar to you. If you’re still unsure about where or how to begin, enlisting the help of A-Level EPQ tutors is a good first step.

Working with an A-Level tutor for your EPQ can help boost your final grade as you’ll have a person to discuss your ideas with at every step of your project. Even when finding an initial idea, having someone to bounce thoughts off is vital when finding the right topic for you.

List of the Best EPQ Ideas

Now that we’ve covered the foundations of what makes a good idea, let’s give you some inspiration. We’ll move through different subjects, giving a list of ideas that you could use for your project.

In this article, we’ll touch on the following subjects for EPQ Ideas:

• A-Level Biology
• A-Level Physics
• A-Level Chemistry
• A-Level Maths
• A-Level History
• A-Level Geography
• A-Level English
• A-Level Economics
• A-Level Engineering
• A-Level Politics
• A-Level Sociology
• A-Level Psychology
• A-Level Law
• A-Level Computer Science
• A-Level Medicine

EPQ Ideas For Biology

Explore these EPQ ideas, endorsed by experienced A-Level Biology tutors :

1 - Are there any long-term psychological effects that may be had by a recipient of another person’s organ? 2 - How do diseases develop mutants? 3 - At what point after conception does life actually begin? 4 - Nature vs nurture causes of body dysmorphia 5 - To what extent do menstrual pains and other period symptoms count as legitimate medical handicaps? 6 - The cause and effect of misdiagnosis/late diagnosis of autism in women 7 - How does smoking marijuana from a young age affect brain development? 8 - A comparison of sex and gender dynamics between humans and other species 9 - What solutions does medical biotechnology present for the COVID-19 pandemic? 10 - How does obesity differ in distinct populations around the world? 11 - The effects of plastic pollution on marine biodiversity 12 - Analysing the role of the microbiome in human health and disease 13 - Investigating the impact of climate change on bird migration patterns 14 - How do different types of exercise affect the human body? 15 - A study of the genetics and environmental factors of addiction 16 - Investigating the role of epigenetics in cancer development 17 - Analysing the effects of air pollution on respiratory health 18 - A study of the evolutionary origins of language in humans 19 - Investigating the effectiveness of different types of birth control methods 20 - Examining the ethical implications of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food production 21 - Analysing the impact of sleep deprivation on cognitive function 22 - Investigating the relationship between stress and physical health 23 - A study of the genetics and environmental factors of Alzheimer's disease 24 - Examining the effects of different diets on gut microbiota 25 - Investigating the role of the immune system in autoimmune diseases 26 - Analysing the impact of deforestation on wildlife populations 27 - A study of the molecular mechanisms of addiction 28 - Investigating the effects of environmental toxins on reproductive health 29 - Examining the relationship between gut microbiota and mental health disorders 30 - Analysing the effectiveness of various cancer treatments.

EPQ Ideas For Physics

Discover EPQ topics suggested by professional A-Level Physics tutors :

1 - How early contributions by physicists belonging to a marginalised community (women, PoC, etc.) have been dismissed. 2 - Design and build a functional robot with a particular purpose 3 - Can physics and religion ever go hand in hand? 4 - In an unimaginably colossal cosmos, is life on other planets really that unlikely? 5 - An analysis of the scientific accuracy of select scenes from Interstellar (or any physics-based movie, TV show, cartoon, etc.) 6 - The death of the sun and its potential effects on the solar system 7 - The reasons behind the failure of supersonic travel 8 - Build your own camera lens from scratch 9 - Will lithium-ion batteries dominate the world in the next 30 years? 10 - Is switching to clean energy feasible for developing countries? 11 - Investigating the feasibility of using nuclear fusion as a future energy source 12 - Exploring the physics behind black holes and their effects on space-time 13 - Examining the possibility of time travel and the physics involved 14 - Designing and testing a new type of wind turbine for more efficient energy generation 15 - Investigating the physics behind the behaviour of quantum particles 16 - Building and testing a model rocket to explore the principles of rocket science 17 - Analysing the physics of sound and music production 18 - Investigating the physics behind the formation and behaviour of lightning 19 - The potential applications and limitations of nanotechnology in the field of medicine 20 - Examining the physics behind the development and potential uses of augmented reality technology 21 - Investigating the physics behind the phenomenon of superconductivity and its practical applications 22 - Designing and building a solar-powered vehicle for sustainable transportation 23 - Exploring the physics of magnetism and its applications in technology 24 - Investigating the physics behind the development and potential uses of quantum computers 25 - Analysing the physics of the human body and its potential applications in medicine 26 - Investigating the physics behind the development and potential uses of artificial intelligence 27 - Exploring the physics of space travel and its potential for future human exploration 28 - Investigating the physics behind the development and potential uses of 3D printing technology 29 - The physics behind the behaviour of waves in the ocean and its applications in marine engineering 30 - Examining the physics behind the development and potential uses of drones in various industries.

EPQ Ideas For Chemistry

Review these EPQ ideas, curated by expert A-Level Chemistry tutors for in-depth study:

1 - Investigating the chemistry of drug development in the pharmaceutical industry 2 - A guide on how to read and understand the listed ingredients at the back of self-grooming products. 3 - The extraction of limonene from citrus 4 - Will humans ever stop producing plastic? 5 - Is the use of chemical and mechanical pesticides ethical? 6 - The safety of aspartame in food and drink 7 - Can the chemistry of the atmosphere ever truly be replicated? 8 - Can you use hydrogen as a fuel in cars? 9 - The current limitations behind building a supercell 10 - Can an understanding of chemistry help us in anti-ageing? 11 - The environmental impact of the production and disposal of batteries 12 - Investigating the chemistry behind the production and effects of air pollution 13 - The role of chemistry in developing new materials for the aerospace industry 14 - Investigating the use of enzymes in industrial processes 15 - The chemistry behind food preservation and storage 16 - Developing a new method for synthesising a specific compound of interest 17 - The chemistry behind the production and effects of cosmetics and personal care products 18 - Investigating the chemistry behind the development and production of synthetic drugs 19 - The use of chemistry in forensic science and criminal investigations 20 - The chemistry behind the behaviour and effects of neurotransmitters in the brain 21 - Investigating the chemistry behind the development and production of bioplastics 22 - The use of chemistry in developing new methods for water purification and desalination 23 - Investigating the chemistry behind the development and production of new medications for chronic diseases 24 - The chemistry behind the behaviour and effects of hormones in the human body 25 - Investigating the use of nanoparticles in targeted drug delivery 26 - The chemistry behind the development and production of renewable energy sources 27 - Investigating the use of chemistry in developing new methods for recycling and waste management 28 - The chemistry behind the behaviour and effects of toxins in the environment 29 - Investigating the use of chemistry in developing new methods for food production and agriculture 30 - The chemistry behind the development and production of new materials for energy storage and conversion.

EPQ Ideas For Maths

Professional A-Level Maths tutors recommended the following EPQ ideas:

1 - To what extent does music borrow from mathematics? 2 - A way (physical model, stimulation, etc.) to visualise dimensions beyond 3-D 3 - Is maths necessary for cognitive development in young children? 4 - The many real-life applications of the binomial theorem 5 - How seemingly simple mathematical ideas revolutionised the world when they were first discovered/invented? 6 - The importance of arithmetic in modern-day cryptography 7 - Can you make a universal equation for measuring beauty? 8 - The significance of infinity in mathematics 9 - Was mathematics discovered or invented? 10 - The application of statistical analysis in modern healthcare 11 - The mathematics behind encryption and data security 12 - Investigating the role of mathematics in artificial intelligence and machine learning 13 - The use of mathematical modelling in predicting natural disasters and mitigating their impact 14 - Investigating the mathematical principles behind cryptography and data privacy 15 - The history and significance of the Fibonacci sequence in mathematics and nature 16 - Developing and testing a new mathematical theorem or formula 17 - Investigating the role of probability theory in finance and investment 18 - The use of mathematical modelling in the development of new drugs and therapies 19 - Investigating the mathematics behind the design and construction of bridges and other structures 20 - The role of mathematics in game theory and decision-making 21 - Investigating the use of machine learning in image and voice recognition 22 - The mathematics behind the development and use of GPS technology 23 - Investigating the mathematical principles behind artificial neural networks 24 - The use of mathematics in optimising supply chains and logistics 25 - Investigating the mathematics behind the development and use of blockchain technology 26 - The mathematics behind the behaviour and dynamics of fluid flow 27 - Investigating the use of mathematical models in predicting and mitigating the spread of diseases 28 - The role of mathematics in quantum mechanics and the behaviour of particles 29 - Investigating the mathematical principles behind the design and operation of electric circuits 30 - The use of mathematical modelling in analysing climate change and its impact on the environment.

EPQ Ideas For History

Consider these EPQ ideas, guided by A-Level History tutors :

1 - The significance of education in British colonial expansion. 2 - Pandemics throughout human history and their effects on societies in various stages of development. 3 - The profound impact of the Black Death on England 4 - How did the USA play a role in WWI? 5 - How did Victorian England deal with child poverty 6 - An exploration of child labor across Europe 7 - What was the economic impact of the black Monday stock market crash? 8 - How have Women’s rights developed since the early 1900s? 9 - How truthful can sources in ancient history truly be? 10 - Explore the notion of female friendship in Victorian England 11 - The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion during World War II 12 - Investigating the influence of religion on medieval society and politics 13 - The impact of the Industrial Revolution on working-class communities in Britain 14 - The role of the British Empire in the transatlantic slave trade 15 - The significance of the Magna Carta in the development of democratic governance 16 - The history and impact of the suffragette movement in the UK 17 - Investigating the causes and impact of the French Revolution 18 - The impact of colonialism on the development of African nations 19 - The history and impact of the Civil Rights Movement in the United States 20 - Investigating the role of propaganda and media in shaping public opinion during the Cold War 21 - The role of religion in shaping the politics and society of ancient Rome 22 - Investigating the causes and impact of the First World War 23 - The impact of the Reformation on religious and political life in Europe 24 - The history and impact of the Vietnam War 25 - Investigating the causes and impact of the Second World War 26 - The significance of the Roman Empire in the development of Western civilisation 27 - Investigating the history and impact of the Indian Independence Movement 28 - The role of women in the development of science and technology throughout history 29 - Investigating the causes and impact of the Cold War 30 - The history and impact of the Civil Rights Movement in the UK.

EPQ Ideas For Geography

Explore EPQ ideas shared by expert A-Level Geography tutors and examiners:

1 - What is the impact of climate change on the Arctic ecosystem? 2 - The role of water management in sustainable development. 3 - What is the impact of urbanisation on natural landscapes? 4 - The potential of renewable energy in reducing carbon emissions. 5 - What is the relationship between land use change and biodiversity loss? 6 - The impact of plastic pollution on marine life. 7 - How can we mitigate the impact of natural disasters on vulnerable communities? 8 - The role of soil erosion in desertification. 9 - What is the impact of deforestation on local and global climate? 10 - The effectiveness of wildlife conservation programs. 11 - The potential of vertical farming in sustainable agriculture. 12 - How can we improve access to clean water in developing countries? 13 - The impact of tourism on local communities and natural landscapes. 14 - What is the role of geospatial technology in environmental conservation? 15 - The impact of sea level rise on coastal communities. 16 - The potential of green infrastructure in urban planning. 17 - How can we reduce air pollution in urban areas? 18 - The role of indigenous knowledge in natural resource management. 19 - What is the impact of soil degradation on agricultural productivity? 20 - The effectiveness of waste management programs. 21 - How can we promote sustainable transportation in urban areas? 22 - The impact of population growth on resource depletion. 23 - The potential of carbon capture technology in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 24 - What is the impact of human activities on ocean acidification? 25 - The role of environmental policies in promoting sustainable development. 26 - The impact of land subsidence on urban infrastructure. 27 - How can we promote sustainable forestry practices? 28 - The potential of bioremediation in environmental cleanup. 29 - What is the impact of water scarcity on social and economic development? 30 - The effectiveness of disaster risk reduction strategies.

EPQ Ideas for English

Here are some EPQ suggestions from leading A-Level English tutors :

1 - How can the impact of Shakespeare be measured? 2 - What distinguishes modern American poetry from European poetry. 3 - Is the age of poetry dead? Exploring Instagram poetry 4 - What makes a novel ‘great’? Can there be a next great American novel? 5 - Can writers ever really be removed from their social context? 6 - Female English novelists had more impact on the form than their male counterparts 7 - The literary canon is closed - there is no more room for expansion. 8 - To what extent is the literary canon a product of colonialism. 9 - How has sexuality in the novel progressed since the 1600s. 10 - Literature is a powerful tool for understanding real-world history and context 11 - The portrayal of mental illness in literature throughout history 12 - The influence of science fiction on modern society and culture 13 - Investigating the use of magical realism in contemporary literature 14 - The role of literature in exploring and understanding the experiences of refugees and migrants 15 - Investigating the significance of folklore and mythology in literature 16 - The representation of gender and sexuality in contemporary literature 17 - Investigating the use of symbolism in literature throughout history 18 - The role of literature in exploring and understanding issues of race and identity 19 - The impact of postcolonial literature on the literary world 20 - Investigating the role of literature in shaping political and social movements throughout history 21 - The representation of disability in literature throughout history 22 - Investigating the use of unreliable narrators in literature 23 - The impact of modern technology on the publishing industry 24 - The role of literature in exploring and understanding mental health issues 25 - Investigating the influence of mythology and folklore on popular culture 26 - The significance of the Beat Generation in the development of contemporary literature 27 - Investigating the use of intertextuality in literature 28 - The role of literature in understanding and exploring the experiences of marginalised communities 29 - Investigating the influence of social media on contemporary literature 30 - The impact of digital publishing on the literary world.

EPQ Ideas for Economics

Professional A-Level Econmics tutors suggested the following EPQ ideas:

1 - Should we reform the tax system in England? 2 - Corporate greed has become the downfall of the modern economic system in the USA 3 - Should politicians be allowed to trade stocks and shares? 4 - Why hasn’t the minimum wage been raised as economic productivity has increased? 5 - Exploring how inflation relates to the stock exchange 6 - Did Brexit have a positive impact on the UK economy? 7 - Does illegal immigration help or hinder the economy in the USA? 8 - Does the concept of social class still exist? 9 - To what extent is the stock exchange controlled by whale investors? 10 - How has the period of 2020-2024 impacted the global demand for oil. 11 - Investigating the causes and impact of income inequality in modern society 12 - The role of international trade in economic growth and development 13 - Investigating the causes and impact of the 2008 financial crisis 14 - The impact of automation and AI on employment and the labour market 15 - Investigating the role of economic policies in shaping environmental sustainability 16 - The impact of globalisation on economic growth and development 17 - Investigating the impact of e-commerce and online marketplaces on traditional retail industries 18 - The role of central banks in managing monetary policy and inflation 19 - Investigating the impact of cryptocurrencies on the traditional financial system 20 - The impact of Brexit on the UK economy and global trade relations 21 - Investigating the impact of foreign aid on economic development in developing countries 22 - The role of the gig economy in shaping the future of work 23 - Investigating the impact of economic sanctions on global trade relations 24 - The impact of education and human capital on economic growth and development 25 - Investigating the impact of the sharing economy on traditional industries and employment 26 - The role of behavioural economics in shaping public policy and decision-making 27 - Investigating the impact of trade unions on labour market dynamics and wages 28 - The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy and society 29 - Investigating the impact of regulation and deregulation on industry dynamics and economic growth 30 - The role of innovation and entrepreneurship in economic growth and development.

EPQ Ideas for Engineering

1 - Biomedical engineering is now more important than ever before in the post COVID-era 2 - What is the relationship between statistics and engineering? 3 - All industries are inherently tied to the speed of progression within engineering 4 - Should software engineering count as a practice of engineering? 5 - How engineering and societal expansion are closely linked 6 - To what extent are soft skills like communication vital for an engineer? 7 - Why is there a gender imbalance within the world of engineering? How can we fix it? 8 - How does the UK government incentivise a career path into engineering? 9 - AI tools will one day replace engineers - to what extent do you agree? 10 - Mechanical engineering is the field of engineering in which most progress has been made 11 - Investigating the impact of renewable energy on the field of electrical engineering 12 - The role of engineering in sustainable infrastructure development and urban planning 13 - Investigating the impact of robotics and automation on manufacturing and industrial engineering 14 - The role of civil engineering in designing and building sustainable cities 15 - Investigating the impact of materials science on the field of engineering 16 - The role of aerospace engineering in space exploration and travel 17 - Investigating the impact of engineering on the development and deployment of autonomous vehicles 18 - The role of chemical engineering in developing sustainable manufacturing processes and materials 19 - Investigating the impact of engineering on the development of healthcare technology and medical devices 20 - The role of engineering in designing and building renewable energy systems and infrastructure 21 - Investigating the impact of engineering on the design and construction of sustainable buildings and architecture 22 - The role of engineering in developing and improving transportation systems 23 - Investigating the impact of engineering on the design and construction of bridges and other infrastructure projects 24 - The role of engineering in developing and improving telecommunications networks 25 - Investigating the impact of engineering on the development of the Internet and information technology 26 - The role of environmental engineering in mitigating the impact of climate change 27 - Investigating the impact of engineering on the development of cybersecurity and digital privacy 28 - The role of engineering in developing and improving water treatment and sanitation systems 29 - Investigating the impact of engineering on the design and construction of military and defence technology 30 - The role of engineering in developing and improving disaster response and recovery systems.

EPQ Ideas for Politics

Look into EPQ topics chosen by experienced A-Level Politics tutors :

1 - Should the two-party system in the USA be abolished? 2 - What are the core differences between how politics in the UK and US is run? 3 - Why should we ban politicians from accepting financial support from companies? 4 - What political system, in theory, would be the best for the globe? 5 - What’s the difference between freedom of speech and hate speech? 6 - Why has the USA never elected a female president? 7 - Which global power is the most ideal for the world as a whole? 8 - How did Australia’s political response to COVID impact their economic standing? 9 - To what extent do people become more conservative as they grow up? 10 - The youngest generations are the only ones interested in climate change - what does this mean for the political future of the UK? 11 - Investigating the impact of social media on political discourse and public opinion 12 - The role of political ideologies in shaping policy and decision-making 13 - Investigating the impact of political polarisation on democratic institutions and society 14 - The role of political leadership in shaping national and international policy 15 - Investigating the impact of foreign policy on global conflict and cooperation 16 - The role of political parties in shaping policy and elections 17 - Investigating the impact of economic policies on income inequality and social mobility 18 - The role of the media in shaping public opinion and political discourse 19 - Investigating the impact of populism on democratic institutions and society 20 - The role of international organisations in shaping global policy and cooperation 21 - Investigating the impact of social movements on political change and policy 22 - The role of identity politics in shaping policy and decision-making 23 - Investigating the impact of political activism on democratic institutions and society 24 - The role of immigration policy in shaping national identity and culture 25 - Investigating the impact of political corruption on democratic institutions and society 26 - The role of the judiciary in shaping policy and protecting human rights 27 - Investigating the impact of globalisation on national and international politics 28 - The role of public opinion in shaping policy and decision-making 29 - Investigating the impact of military and defence policy on international relations 30 - The role of diplomacy in shaping global policy and cooperation.

EPQ Ideas for Sociology

1 - Class is, by far, the most important factor when it comes to existing within society. 2 - How do societal standards shape the career paths of a country’s citizens? 3 - How does diaspora impact the ability for culture to be passed down through the generations? 4 - Social perceptions of women have not changed over the past 50 years. 5 - To what extent are we still living in a world filled with sexism, racism, and homophobia? 6 - An exploration of how modern-day Britain is still a racist society. 7 - To what extent is there a connection between class and race? 8 - What is culture, and how does it exist within communities? 9 - The evolution of polyamory and its modern-day presence in society. 10 - People are too different to get along; modern-day ideologies are too divisive for people to agree on anything. 11 - Investigating the impact of social media on social identity and relationships 12 - The role of gender and sexuality in shaping identity and social norms 13 - Investigating the impact of technology on social interaction and relationships 14 - The role of religion and spirituality in shaping individual and group identity 15 - Investigating the impact of social inequality on access to education and opportunity 16 - The role of language and communication in shaping culture and identity 17 - Investigating the impact of immigration and multiculturalism on social identity and integration 18 - The role of power and authority in shaping social structures and institutions 19 - Investigating the impact of social movements on social change and progress 20 - The role of social class and status in shaping access to resources and opportunity 21 - Investigating the impact of ageing on social identity and relationships 22 - The role of social norms and values in shaping behaviour and attitudes 23 - Investigating the impact of social support on mental and physical health 24 - The role of social control and deviance in shaping social order and justice 25 - Investigating the impact of globalisation on social identity and culture 26 - The role of family and kinship in shaping social identity and relationships 27 - Investigating the impact of social media on political engagement and activism 28 - The role of race and ethnicity in shaping social identity and discrimination 29 - Investigating the impact of social class on health and well-being 30 - The role of social mobility in shaping access to opportunity and social change.

EPQ Ideas for Psychology

Explore these unique EPQ ideas guided by renowned A-Level Psychology tutors :

1 - Explore the presence of mental health within literature 2 - Are representations of mental disorders in film helping or hindering the cause? 3 - Is the American treatment of ADHD too harsh for children? 4 - How does a child’s environment while growing up impact the development of their brain? 5 - Why do different people manage depression in distinct ways? 6 - The psychology of addiction: exploring the science behind addictive behaviour 7 - The role of mindfulness and meditation in reducing anxiety and stress 8 - Investigating the impact of childhood experiences on adult attachment styles 9 - The psychology of decision-making: why do people make the choices they do? 10 - Exploring the science behind sleep: the impact of sleep on cognitive function and mental health 11 - The impact of cultural differences on communication styles and interpersonal relationships 12 - The role of emotional intelligence in personal and professional success 13 - Investigating the impact of childhood trauma on adult mental health and well-being 14 - The psychology of creativity: exploring the science behind creative thinking and innovation 15 - The impact of social norms on individual behaviour and decision-making 16 - The role of motivation in goal-setting and achievement 17 - Investigating the psychology of personality: what makes us who we are? 18 - The impact of positive psychology interventions on well-being and life satisfaction 19 - The psychology of persuasion: exploring the science behind influence and persuasion 20 - The impact of technology on social relationships and communication 21 - The role of self-compassion in promoting mental health and well-being 22 - Investigating the psychology of memory: how do we remember and forget? 23 - The impact of social comparison on self-esteem and well-being 24 - The psychology of procrastination: why do people delay and avoid tasks? 25 - The impact of parenting styles on child development and mental health 26 - The role of self-efficacy in promoting achievement and success 27 - Investigating the impact of social identity on group behaviour and decision-making 28 - The psychology of resilience: exploring the science behind coping with adversity 29 - The impact of gender roles on behaviour and socialisation 30 - The psychology of love and relationships: exploring the science behind romantic attraction and attachment.

EPQ Ideas for Law

Here are some specialised EPQ ideas from leading A-Level Law tutors :

1 - The impact of technology on the future of law enforcement and criminal justice 2 - The role of international criminal law in promoting accountability and justice for human rights violations 3 - Investigating the impact of family law on the definition and recognition of diverse family structures 4 - The impact of immigration law on the integration and social mobility of immigrants and refugees 5 - The role of data protection law in promoting privacy and security in the digital age. 6 - The jury system is outdated and should be removed. 7 - Language and law are intertwined; to what extent is court a verbal game? 8 - Does police presence do more harm than good? 9 - Should insanity be considered a valid defense for committing a crime? 10 - How effective is the UK legal system in punishing crimes? 11 - Investigating the impact of technology on privacy and the law 12 - The impact of social media on the legal system: exploring the challenges and opportunities 13 - The impact of international law on human rights and global justice 14 - The role of legal precedent in shaping the law: exploring the concept of stare decisis 15 - Investigating the impact of judicial activism on the law: should judges make policy? 16 - The impact of terrorism on civil liberties and the law 17 - The role of corporate law in promoting ethical business practices 18 - Investigating the impact of hate crime legislation on social attitudes and behaviour 19 - The impact of family law on child welfare and protection 20 - The role of intellectual property law in promoting innovation and creativity 21 - Investigating the impact of immigration law on social inclusion and diversity 22 - The impact of human rights law on social justice and equality 23 - The role of employment law in promoting workplace diversity and inclusion 24 - Investigating the impact of environmental law on conservation and sustainability 25 - The impact of criminal law on society: exploring the relationship between punishment and rehabilitation 26 - The role of property law in promoting economic growth and development 27 - Investigating the impact of media law on freedom of expression and privacy 28 - The impact of animal rights law on animal welfare and protection 29 - The role of contract law in promoting fair business practices and consumer protection 30 - Investigating the impact of competition law on market regulation and consumer welfare.

EPQ Ideas for Computer Science

See EPQ ideas from world's top A-Level Computer Science tutors :

1 - What is the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on modern society? 2 - What ethical considerations are there surrounding facial recognition technology? 3 - How does social media impact user privacy and security? 4 - What is the potential of virtual and augmented reality technology? 5 - What ethical considerations are there surrounding autonomous vehicles? 6 - How can machine learning help predict natural disasters? 7 - What is quantum computing technology and how will it impact the future? 8 - How do computer viruses impact cybersecurity? 9 - What is the role of blockchain technology in promoting secure and transparent transactions? 10 - How does machine translation technology impact communication? 11 - What is the impact of technology on mental health and well-being? 12 - How can gamification be used to enhance education and learning? 13 - What is the impact of technology on the entertainment industry? 14 - How does smart home technology impact daily life? 15 - What is the potential of biometric identification technology in security and authentication? 16 - The development and impact of cloud computing technology. 17 - Cybernetics and its role in advancing human-computer interaction. 18 - Chatbot technology and its impact on customer service. 19 - The potential of natural language processing technology. 20 - The use of big data in decision making. 21 - The impact of technology on the job market and employment opportunities. 22 - The development and impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) technology. 23 - The role of cybersecurity in protecting personal information. 24 - The development and potential of 5G technology. 25 - The impact of technology on urban planning and city infrastructure. 26 - The role of computer vision in modern technology. 27 - The development and potential of autonomous drones. 28 - The use of virtual assistants in everyday life. 29 - The potential of voice recognition technology. 30 - The impact of technology on the environment and sustainability.

EPQ Ideas for Medicine

You may be interested in this article about whether you should take an EPQ to study medicine .

1 - How effective are vaccines in preventing disease outbreaks? 2 - The potential of gene editing technology in treating genetic disorders. 3 - The use of medical marijuana for pain relief. 4 - Can mindfulness meditation help with mental health issues? 5 - The impact of sleep deprivation on mental and physical health. 6 - The effectiveness of alternative medicine in treating certain conditions. 7 - What are the potential side effects of long-term antibiotic use? 8 - The use of stem cell therapy in treating various diseases. 9 - How can we improve access to healthcare for underprivileged communities? 10 - The role of nutrition in disease prevention and treatment. 11 - What is the impact of social determinants of health on healthcare access and outcomes? 12 - The use of telemedicine in remote patient care. 13 - Can herbal supplements be used to treat certain conditions? 14 - The potential of regenerative medicine in tissue engineering. 15 - What is the relationship between gut health and overall wellbeing? 16 - The impact of climate change on public health. 17 - The potential of precision medicine in personalised treatment. 18 - The role of vaccination in disease prevention and herd immunity. 19 - How does exercise impact mental and physical health? 20 - The use of immunotherapy in cancer treatment. 21 - What ethical considerations are there surrounding genetic testing? 22 - The potential of gene therapy in treating inherited diseases. 23 - The impact of air pollution on respiratory health. 24 - The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioural therapy in treating mental health issues. 25 - Can acupuncture be used to treat chronic pain? 26 - The role of lifestyle factors in disease prevention. 27 - How can we improve access to mental health services? 28 - The use of artificial intelligence in medical diagnosis. 29 - The impact of stress on mental and physical health. 30 - The effectiveness of music therapy in treating mental health issues.

These are some of our best EPQ ideas for a range of popular subjects. Each of these titles is meant to give you inspiration, helping you to find a topic that you’re interested in.

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Rahil spent ten years working as private tutor, teaching students for GCSEs, A-Levels, and university admissions. During his PhD he published papers on modelling infectious disease epidemics and was a tutor to undergraduate and masters students for mathematics courses.

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How to Write an EPQ essay (including lessons I’ve learned from writing my book)

Having just finished re-writing my book,  The Ten Step Guide to Acing Every Exam You Ever Take (due to be published in February 2017)   I thought now was the perfect time to share the lessons I've learned from doing an extended piece of writing like this so you can apply them to writing your EPQ essay.

How to write an EPQ essay – 9 Steps

1. your idea.

I did exactly this with my book. I want to become known as an expert in study skills and exam skills. The perfect way to do this is to write a book about it. Hopefully lots of new people will find me as a result of reading my book and want to work with me . My book is furthering my long-term aims (as well as being something I've always wanted to do – yippee for being a published author!).

2. Brain dump

Once you've come up with an idea brain dump everything you already know about it. This is important because your current knowledge is the foundation of where you're going to go next. It will also enable you to identify the gaps in your knowledge and therefore what further research you need to do.

Believe it or not, over the last eighteen months or so my brain dump has been my blog ! As I've listened more and more to my readers to hear what they need help with and what problems they have I have learned more and understood more about the field of study skills. I've researched, thought and read to improve my knowledge and understanding and put all that knowledge into my blog.

3. Identify your title or question

The next step is having some idea of what your title might be or what question you want to answer with your work. Throughout your research you need to ensure that you're finding information that will help you to answer this question.

With my book, the title dictated the structure that the book would take. It helped me to stay focused on what I needed to include as well as exclude.

4. Create a structure for your finished piece

From what you know already and the title you have identified you can create a draft structure or plan for your finished piece of work. Again, this structure will help to keep you focused on what research you need to do to properly answer your question. However, remember that you can always change your structure if what you find in your research deems it necessary.

When I was writing my book I had the overall structure which started with four parts and the ten chapters were divided up between those four parts. When I sat down to write each chapter I wrote a list of what I wanted to include in each of those chapters and decided in what order it was logical and sensible to write about each of those things. Doing this made the actual writing part easy – the book almost wrote itself!

5. Do your research

Now is the time to fill in the gaps in your knowledge by doing your research. Make sure you stay focused on your title and structure all the time that you're doing your research. It's also really important to keep a clear record of where you've gained your information for your references and bibliography. I remember in my early days at university writing endless notes that then got in a muddle and I could never identify the source text which meant I couldn't use that information in an essay because I couldn't reference it. I learned my lesson and soon put a system in place so that I could always identify where my notes, ideas and quotes came from!

With my book my research was listening to my readers and clients and reading books that helped me to solve the problems that they were dealing with. For example, I read a book called ‘Mini Habits' by Stephen Guise – and used that book as the basis for a blog post. I have now incorporated those ideas into the book.

6. Review your structure

As you're doing your research, and particularly once you've finished it, you'll need to review your structure. Your structure is essentially a summary of the argument you want to make in your essay. If the information you've found has lead you to an opinion that you can't express through your original structure then the structure needs to be altered or changed. This is the time when you need to be 100% sure that your structure provides with the framework to say exactly what you want to say in answer to the question or title you have set yourself.

I have found this to be particularly important with my book. The original version of my book was written before I even started my blog. The ten steps I included were all the clearest things I'd learned from my own experience as a student and from teaching geography in schools. However, through my blog, reading and coaching I gained more insights about my own experience and what really helped others. This meant that when I came to re-write the book I had more to say so that I had to change the structure to accomodate all this new understanding and knowledge.

7. Allocate a word count to each section of your structure

You know your essay has to be 5,000 words long and you know which sections you want to put into it because you've planned your structure. To make life easy for yourself you should now allocate a word count to each section. This means that you won't fall into the dreadful trap of writing way too much and having to cull all your hard work to be within the word limit.

I did this for my book. My publisher said that he'd like a 30,000 word book. The original book was about 14,000 words so I had to more than double it. I knew that I had ten basic chapters plus an introduction, foreword and other bits and pieces. So, I set myself the target that each chapter should be approximately 3,000 words. In the end some of the chapters are slightly shorter and others are slightly longer than this but I easily hit the 30,000 word marker by making sure I was reaching the word count for each chapter as I went along.

Can you believe we got to number eight before you actually started writing? Well, this is because all the planning and research you've done up until now will make the writing process really, really easy. The essay should almost write itself!

This is what I found with my book. My plan was so detailed and I'd done so much research over the preceeding eighteen month period that the writing bit was just easy. I sat down for between one and two hours a day for just eighteen days and the first draft of the book was written. It was utterly painless. I then spent two weeks reviewing and editing as well as writing the introduction.

9. Get feedback

The final step is to get feedback on your work. Give it to a friend, parent or mentor to read it through and give you some feedback. The more they know about your subject and academic writing the better. Listen carefully to the advice that they give you and incorporate it as best you can into your work.

The first person to read my book after I'd finished it was my editor. She was thrilled with it and said that ‘it reads wonderfully' and that there was very little she had to change. I credit my thorough planning process for this praise. I hope that your thorough planning leads to the same type of praise.

Some useful EPQ resources from the web

This information from The Student Room gives some really useful background information about the EPQ:  http://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/wiki/Extended_Project_Qualification

This post from the UCAS student blog helps you with where to start with your EPQ:  https://www.ucas.com/connect/blogs/epq-where-start

You can download this essay guide from the TES website:  https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/epq-guide-essay-structure-6359383

If you know of any other really useful EPQ resources then leave a link in the comments below.

Over to you

I hope these tips really help you to write a brilliant EPQ as easily as possible. I've learned how to structure and organise my work in this way through years and years of experience researching, writing, reading and marking essays. Hopefully you won't have so much trial and error!

Leave me a comment below to tell me what you're studying in your EPQ and what challenges you're facing with it at the moment. I'll be sure to reply to every comment.

Get on the wait list!

My book,  The Ten Step Guide to Acing Every Exam You Ever Take , will be published by John Catt in February 2017. If you'd like to know when you can pre-order make sure you're on my mailing list – you'll also get a free exert from the book when you sign-up.

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THE TEN STEP GUIDE  TO ACING EVERY EXAM YOU EVERY TAKE

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EPQ Guide: Expressing your ideas

• The Inquiry Process
• Developing a line of inquiry
• Finding and selecting sources
• Working with ideas

Expressing your ideas

This is the stage you have been building towards - writing your report. Although that is largely the focus of this page , it is not all there is to the EPQ.

Your EPQ will be assessed on:

• Your completed Production Log
• if your project is a research based written report of any kind (e.g. a science investigation or an essay) it should be approximately 5,000 words long
• If your project is an artefact, it must be accomapanied by a research based written report of a minimum of 1,000 words. For artefacts, you may include photos showing various stages of the production process as well as the final product. You do not need to submit a large artefact as evidence - photographs or other media are fine.
• If your product was itself a presentation then you still need to produce a presentation about the process of producing it!
• Your presentation must be delivered live to a non-specialist audience and might use flipcharts or posters, presentation tools such as PowerPoint or Prezi or short video clips. The evidence for your presentation will  include a record in your Production Log of questions your supervisor asked and how you responded.

Am I ready?

Am I ready to start writing my essay?

Before you start writing, think:

• Is my investigation largely complete? As you write you may find that you need a few additional resources or information to support your argument, but you should not sta rt to write until you are largely sure where your argument is going.
• Have I filled in a Research Organiser (which you will find on the Working with Ideas tab)? This will help you to organise your thoughts and make sure you understand the argument you intend to make and have the evidence to support it. While not compulsory, it makes writing your final essay significantly easier.
• Do I understand how to write in an appropriate academic style? Guidance is given in the Academic Writing box below.
• Do I know how to import my sources from my Investigative Journal? Don't waste time putting all your citation data in again! Import all your sources as you set up your document. There are helpsheets in the Resources for PC / Mac users boxes to the right.

You should use the Oakham APAv3 Academic Writing Template (below) rather than a generic Word template to set up your essay.

(The image below is taken from the EE LibGuide, but the template is just as useful for EPQs)

Citing and referencing

There are many different ways to acknowledge the sources you use. These are called referencing styles . You are free to use any recognised referencing style you wish for your EPQ, but Oakham's 'house style' is APA. We suggest you use this because we already have a lot of support in place for it. APA is an 'Author-date' system, meaning that you show which source you have used by putting the author and date in brackets after it in your text, and then put the full reference in an alphabetical list at the end of the essay. The Library does not support 'footnote referencing', where you put all the information in a footnote at the bottom of the page. If you want help with this then please talk to the member of staff who suggested that you use it.

For detailed information and guidance on how to use sources in your writing and how to cite and reference them accurately using the tools in Microsoft Word, consult the Citing and Referencing LibGuide . This site includes information about how to reference all sorts of different kinds of sources, including videos and works of art, and what to do if you are using a source written in a language that is not the language of your essay. It also gives some examples of how to use in-text citations , whether quoting, paraphrasing or just referring to a source more generally, and how to use the automatic citing and referencing tools in Word .

Academic writing

Stages in an academic essay

Your thesis is the point you want to make. It emerges from your research and your task is to use the evidence you have found to establish it as the most reasonable response to that research.

In both approaches, you must state the research question in your introduction, and make sure you return to it in your conclusion .

Sections required in your essay

Have a look at the Formal Presentation guide in the sidebar for a guide to laying out your essay.

Paragraph Structure

Paragraphs themselves have a structure - the most common you will have come across is likely to be PEEL. The letters often stand for slightly different things in different subjects, but the idea is largely the same - introduce your main idea for the paragraph ( Point ), justify it with Evidence and/or Examples , and Evaluate this evidence. Finally, Link back to the Research Question and/or Link forward to the next paragraph.

This is not the only way to write a paragraph and, with experience, you will soon find that your argument develops a flow of its own that does not require a formula - indeed, your essay would be very dull if every paragraph followed exactly the same structure. However, this structure can be a useful scaffold to get you started and make sure you don't miss anything important.

The structure of academic writing

Note that the following graphic was originally produced for the IB Extended Essay, but is equally applicable to the EPQ.

Planning your essay

It is vital to plan your essay before you start writing. An essay plan provides an outline of your argument and how it develops.

What sections and subsections do you need?

Although this might change as you write your essay, you should not start writing until you have your overall structure. Then think about roughly how you are going to divide your 5000 words between the different sections. 5000 words seems like a lot before you start writing, but it is much easier to write to the limit, section by section, than to try to cut your essay down once it is written.

What will the reader will expect to see and where?

Look back at your checklist and think about where in your essay you are planning to include the required information. Make sure the flow of your essay makes sense to a reader who may be a subject expert but knows little about your topic. Have you included background information? Details of experimental methods? Arguments and counter arguments?

Now get writing!

You've read all the guidance. You've made your plan. Now you have a blank screen in front of you and you just need to get started! Start with the section you think you will find easiest to write and work outwards from there, or follow the steps below to get started. Don't forget to write with the word limit in mind though.

What if you are writing lots of paragraphs but your essay just doesn't seem to be coming together?

1. Condense each paragraph into a short statement or bullet point. This is the skeleton structure of your essay.

2. Look at the order of the statements.

• Is the order logical?
• Does each point follow another in a sensible order?
• Do you need to change the order?
• Do you need to add paragraphs?
• Do you need to remove paragraphs?

3. Add, subtract and rearrange the paragraphs until your structure makes sense.

4. Redraft using your new paragraph order.  

Image by OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay

Willard, D. (2003) My journey to and b eyond tenure in a secular university . Retrieved from: www.dwillard.org/articles/individual/my-journey-to-and-beyond-tenure-in-a-secular-university . Accessed: 9th May 2020

Oh no! It's too long!!

If you haven't managed to write to the word limit and are suddenly faced with cutting down an essay that is over the word limit, try these tips on concise writing from Purdue Online Writing Lab.

Use the menu on the left of this page from Purdue OWL to browse the four very practical pages on writing concisely and one on the Paramedic Method for reducing your word count.

AQA Guide to completing the Production Log: Expressing your ideas

AQA copyright notice

The presentation above contains slides from the AQA presentation  Teaching slides: how to complete the production log  (available from the AQA EPQ Teaching and Learning Resources website ).  These slides are Copyright © 2020 AQA and its licensors. All rights reserved.

A downloadable copy of the Production Log can be found here , on the Home tab of this guide.

Submission checklists

• First Draft Checklist A guide to make sure you stay on track and complete everything required for your first draft.
• Final Draft Checklist A guide detailing everything that needs to be completed before submitting your EPQ.

Guides for PC users

• Citing and Referencing in Word 2016 for Windows
• Managing Sources in Word 2016 for Windows
• Creating a Table of Contents in Word 2016 for Windows

Guides for Mac users

• Managing Sources in Word 2016 for Mac
• Citing and Referencing in Word 2016 for Mac
• << Previous: Working with ideas
• Next: Reflecting >>
• Last Updated: Jun 6, 2024 10:05 AM
• URL: https://oakham-rutland.libguides.com/EPQ

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450 EPQ Ideas and Everything You Need to Know

• The EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is a great way to earn extra UCAS points
• It can be an essay, or it can be an entirely different project
• It has many benefits, especially for students looking at top universities
• You can choose from an endless selection of EPQ topic ideas and EPQ examples with little restrictions

What Could Your EPQ Be?

An EPQ, or Extended Project Qualification, is a project that can be taken on by A-level students, and it’s worth 50% of an A-level.

Your EPQ could be a:

• Dissertation of around 5,000 words
• Project , report or artefact backed up by paper work.

There are little restrictions on what topics could be chosen for your EPQ, as long as it’s approved by your institution. You could target a topic you’re studying, or a topic not taught in an A-level course to demonstrate your interest and intellectual versatility.

Benefits of an EPQ

Some of the best teachers in the world tutor at Crimson! Our expert teachers identified 5 huge benefits that you get out of doing an EPQ:

1. Showcasing Super-Curricular Excellence

Top UK universities look for students who go above and beyond the standard curriculum.

The EPQ allows you to showcase your super-curricular engagement with a favorite academic subject, demonstrating not just knowledge but a genuine passion for learning.

2. Exploring New Subjects

The EPQ gives you an opportunity to study subjects that are not taught at A-level. It gives you a chance to showcase your intellectual versatility, something that top universities love to see .

By exploring a subject not offered at A Level, you exhibit a broad academic curiosity and a hunger for knowledge.

3. Mastering Skills for Academic Success

The EPQ is a golden opportunity to develop independent research, critical thinking, and project management skills – all crucial for thriving in higher education.

When working on your EPQ, you’ll confidently navigate complex research, make informed decisions, and manage a project from inception to completion – skills that set you apart in the competitive admissions landscape.

4. Gaining Additional UCAS Points

In the fierce competition for university spots, every point counts. Completing an EPQ not only enriches your academic profile but also adds those coveted extra UCAS points .

The EPQ could grant you up to an extra 28 UCAS points!

5. Equipping Yourself with Invaluable Transferable Skills

The EPQ is a gateway to acquiring invaluable transferable skills – from effective presentation to confident decision-making.

These skills transcend the classroom, positioning you as a well-rounded candidate prepared to excel both in university and future professional endeavors.

Interested in learning more? Attend one of our free events

Epq examples.

As mentioned above, a dissertation or essay is only one way to approach your EPQ. The EPQ opens doors to so many project possibilities, allowing you to explore your interests and showcase your skills in various creative ways.

20 EPQ Examples:

• Documentary Film: Create a visually engaging documentary exploring a historical event, social issue, or scientific phenomenon.
• Podcast Series: Dive into podcasting by producing a series that delves into topics such as literature, culture, or current affairs.
• Art Exhibition: Showcase your artistic talents by curating an exhibition that explores a theme or conveys a message.
• Scientific Experiment: Conduct an in-depth scientific experiment and present your findings, methodology, and conclusions.
• Business Plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan for a startup, considering market analysis, financial projections, and marketing strategies.
• Creative Writing Portfolio: Craft a collection of short stories, poems, or a novel, displaying your creative writing prowess.
• Historical Reenactment: Bring history to life by organizing and participating in a historical reenactment event.
• Mathematical Model: Create a complex mathematical model to solve a real-world problem, demonstrating the practical applications of mathematics.
• Computer Program or App: Develop a functional computer program or mobile app that addresses a specific need or problem.
• Educational Board Game: Design and produce an educational board game aimed at teaching a particular subject or skill.
• Campaign and Advocacy Project: Take on a social or environmental cause, developing and implementing a campaign to raise awareness and provoke change.
• Musical Composition: Compose an original piece of music or a full musical score for a play, film, or even a video game.
• Fashion Collection: Design and create a fashion collection, exploring themes such as sustainability or cultural influences.
• Psychological Experiment: Devise and conduct a psychological experiment, analyzing human behavior or cognitive processes.
• Architectural Model: Create a detailed architectural model for a theoretical building or urban planning project.
• Language Learning App: Develop an app focused on language learning, incorporating innovative features to enhance the learning experience.
• Robotics Project: Build a functional robot, detailing the design process, programming, and potential applications.
• Photography Exhibition: Showcase your photography skills by curating an exhibition with a theme or message.
• Health and Fitness Program: Design a personalized health and fitness program, incorporating nutritional plans and exercise routines.
• Political Analysis Report: Conduct an in-depth analysis of a political issue, policy, or historical event, presenting your findings in a detailed report.

EPQ Ideas  

Epq ideas for biology.

• The Impact of Genetic Engineering on Agriculture: A Critical Analysis
• Exploring CRISPR-Cas9 Technology: Revolutionizing Genetic Editing
• The Role of Microbiome in Human Health and Disease
• Comparative Analysis of Plant Adaptations in Different Biomes
• Investigating the Relationship Between Diet and Gut Microbiota
• The Ethics of Cloning: Examining the Bioethical Implications
• The Evolutionary Significance of Biodiversity in Rainforests
• Stem Cell Research: A Breakthrough in Regenerative Medicine
• The Interplay Between Genetics and Environmental Factors in Disease Susceptibility
• Climate Change's Impact on Marine Ecosystems: A Case Study
• The Use of CRISPR in Treating Genetic Disorders
• Understanding the Mechanisms of Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria
• The Role of Epigenetics in Inheritance and Gene Expression
• Analyzing the Impact of Pesticides on Bee Populations
• The Biochemical Basis of Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Human Evolution: A Comparative Study of Hominid Species
• The CRISPR Revolution: Opportunities and Ethical Dilemmas
• The Application of Synthetic Biology in Medicine
• The Role of Genetics in Cancer: Identifying Biomarkers for Early Detection
• Exploring the Potential of Gene Therapy in Treating Genetic Disorders
• The Impact of Ocean Acidification on Coral Reefs
• Biological Control of Invasive Species: Balancing Ecosystems
• The Connection Between Sleep Patterns and Biological Rhythms
• The Role of Hormones in Human Behavior and Mental Health
• Analyzing the Genetics of Rare Diseases: Implications for Treatment
• Evolutionary Ecology of Predator-Prey Relationships
• The Use of Biotechnology in Crop Improvement and Food Security
• Investigating the Impact of Endocrine Disruptors on Wildlife
• The Microbiome and Immune System: Partners in Health
• Neurobiology of Addiction: Understanding the Biological Basis

EPQ Ideas For Chemistry

• Green Chemistry: Strategies for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices
• Nanotechnology in Medicine: Advancements and Potential Applications
• Analyzing the Chemistry of Taste: Molecular Basis of Flavor Perception
• The Role of Catalysts in Chemical Reactions: A Comprehensive Study
• Synthetic Polymers vs. Biodegradable Polymers: Environmental Impacts
• Investigating the Chemistry of Superfoods and Their Health Benefits
• Applications of Electrochemistry in Energy Storage Devices
• Quantum Dots: Nanoscale Wonders in Electronic and Photonic Devices
• The Chemistry Behind Drug Design and Development
• Chemical Analysis of Air Pollutants: Sources and Solutions
• The Chemistry of Photosynthesis: Unlocking Nature's Energy Secrets
• Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs): Applications in Gas Storage and Separation
• Exploring the Chemistry of Perfumes: Molecular Components and Fragrance Design
• The Impact of pH on Enzyme Activity: Understanding Biological Catalysis
• Chemical Kinetics: Investigating Reaction Rates and Mechanisms
• The Chemistry of Art Conservation: Preserving Cultural Heritage
• Catalytic Converters: Mitigating Environmental Impact in Automobiles
• Analytical Chemistry Techniques in Forensic Science: Solving Crimes
• The Chemistry of Food Preservation: From Canning to Refrigeration
• Understanding the Chemistry of Water Treatment Processes
• Molecular Gastronomy: The Science Behind Culinary Innovations
• Supramolecular Chemistry: Designing Complex Molecular Structures
• The Chemistry of Battery Technologies: Advancements and Challenges
• Chemical Warfare Agents: A Historical and Contemporary Perspective
• Exploring the Chemistry of Antioxidants in Health and Wellness
• The Role of Transition Metals in Biological Systems: Bioinorganic Chemistry
• Environmental Impact of Pharmaceuticals: Analyzing Residue in Water Systems
• The Chemistry of Bioluminescence: Illuminating the Natural World
• Chirality in Drug Development: Importance and Challenges
• Chemical Aspects of Brewing: From Hops to Fermentation Processes

EPQ Ideas For Physics

• Quantum Computing: The Future of Information Processing
• Astrophysics and Dark Matter: Unraveling the Cosmic Mystery
• The Physics of Renewable Energy: Exploring Sustainable Power Sources
• String Theory: Investigating the Fundamental Building Blocks of the Universe
• Applications of Quantum Mechanics in Modern Technology
• The Physics of Time Travel: Theoretical Possibilities and Paradoxes
• Nuclear Fusion: Harnessing the Power of the Sun on Earth
• The Role of Physics in Medical Imaging Technologies
• The Physics of Music: Acoustics and Instrument Design
• Quantum Entanglement: Spooky Action at a Distance
• The Search for Extraterrestrial Life: Astrophysical Approaches
• Superconductivity: Applications and Challenges in Technology
• The Physics of Sports: Analyzing the Mechanics Behind Athletic Performance
• Gravitational Waves: Detecting Ripples in Spacetime
• The Physics of Climate Change: Understanding the Science Behind Global Warming
• Particle Physics: Exploring Subatomic Particles and Their Interactions
• The Physics of Fluid Dynamics: Applications in Engineering and Nature
• Theoretical Physics and the Nature of Reality: Einstein's Legacy
• Quantum Teleportation: The Possibilities and Limitations
• The Physics of Traffic Flow: Modeling and Optimization
• Black Holes: Nature's Most Mysterious Cosmic Phenomena
• The Physics of Quantum Computing: Challenges and Breakthroughs
• The Physics of Roller Coasters: Designing Thrilling Rides
• The Role of Physics in Medical Diagnostics: Imaging Techniques
• The Physics of Materials: Properties and Applications
• Chaos Theory: Understanding Nonlinear Dynamical Systems
• The Physics of Nuclear Weapons: Science and Global Security
• The Higgs Boson: Unraveling the Mysteries of Particle Mass
• The Physics of Artificial Intelligence: Quantum Computing Perspectives
• Optical Illusions: Exploring the Physics Behind Visual Deceptions

EPQ Ideas for Computer Science

• Quantum Computing: Promises, Challenges, and Potential Applications
• Ethical Considerations in Artificial Intelligence: Bias, Accountability, and Transparency
• Blockchain Technology: Beyond Cryptocurrencies
• Cybersecurity Threats and Countermeasures in the Digital Age
• The Impact of Machine Learning on Healthcare: Diagnostics and Treatment
• Human-Computer Interaction: Designing User-Friendly Interfaces
• The Evolution of Programming Languages: From Assembly to High-Level Languages
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): Applications and Future Trends
• The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Vehicles
• Natural Language Processing: Challenges and Advances in Language Understanding
• Quantum Cryptography: Securing Communication with Quantum Mechanics
• The Ethics of Data Collection and Privacy in the Internet Age
• The Rise of Edge Computing: Redefining Cloud Computing Architectures
• Algorithmic Trading: The Impact of Automated Systems on Financial Markets
• Computer Vision: Applications in Image Recognition and Analysis
• The Intersection of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence: Creating Intelligent Machines
• Big Data Analytics in Business: Extracting Insights from Large Datasets
• The Role of Machine Learning in Predictive Policing: Benefits and Concerns
• The Future of Quantum Internet: Secure Communication with Quantum Entanglement
• Deep Learning: Neural Networks and Their Applications
• The Dark Web: Unveiling the Hidden Layers of the Internet
• The Impact of 5G Technology on Communication and Connectivity
• Programming Quantum Computers: Challenges and Opportunities
• The Role of Computer Science in Climate Modeling and Environmental Studies
• Voice Recognition Technology: Advancements and Challenges
• E-Learning Platforms: The Integration of Technology in Education
• The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Drug Discovery and Development
• Digital Forensics: Investigating Cyber Crimes and Security Breaches
• Internet of Things (IoT): Connecting Devices for a Smart Future
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Revolutionizing Engineering and Architecture

EPQ Ideas For Law

• The Impact of Cybercrime Laws on Digital Privacy
• Analyzing the Efficacy of International Human Rights Treaties
• The Legal Implications of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
• The Role of Constitutional Law in Shaping National Policies
• The Evolution of Criminal Law: From Traditional to Cyber Crimes
• Exploring the Legal and Ethical Dimensions of Euthanasia
• The Intersection of Law and Medicine: Medical Malpractice Cases
• Copyright Law in the Digital Age: Challenges and Solutions
• The Legal Status of Environmental Rights and Responsibilities
• Comparative Analysis of Legal Systems: Civil Law vs. Common Law
• The Impact of Social Media on Defamation Laws
• Legal Issues Surrounding Genetic Engineering and Human Cloning
• The Role of International Law in Addressing Climate Change
• The Legal Implications of Biometric Data Collection and Use
• Examining the Role of Legal Precedent in Judicial Decision-Making
• The Legalization of Marijuana: Impacts on Society and Legislation
• The Relationship Between Law and Economics: A Critical Analysis
• The Rights of Indigenous Peoples: Legal Protections and Challenges
• The Legal Dimensions of Cybersecurity: Policies and Practices
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Intellectual Property Law
• The Legal Implications of Mass Surveillance Programs
• The Role of International Criminal Law in Addressing War Crimes
• Laws Governing Digital Currency and Cryptocurrencies
• The Legal and Ethical Issues of DNA Profiling in Criminal Investigations
• The Legal Status of Privacy in the Workplace
• The Intersection of Law and Technology: Challenges in the Digital Age
• LGBTQ+ Rights: Legal Progress and Ongoing Challenges
• The Legal Implications of Autonomous Vehicles on Traffic Laws
• Legal Issues Surrounding Data Privacy and Social Media Platforms
• The Role of Legal Ethics in the Practice of Law

EPQ Ideas for Psychology

• The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health: A Psychological Perspective
• Exploring the Relationship Between Sleep Patterns and Cognitive Functioning
• The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
• The Psychology of Addiction: Understanding Behavioral and Substance Dependencies
• The Role of Positive Psychology in Promoting Well-being and Happiness
• Analyzing the Effects of Video Games on Aggression and Behavior
• The Psychological Effects of Social Isolation and Loneliness
• The Intersection of Psychology and Artificial Intelligence: Ethical Considerations
• The Psychology of Decision-Making: Factors Influencing Choices
• Understanding the Psychological Impact of Chronic Illness on Patients
• The Relationship Between Personality and Career Choice: A Longitudinal Study
• The Influence of Parenting Styles on Child Development
• The Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination: Exploring Implicit Bias
• The Effects of Mindfulness and Meditation on Mental Health
• The Psychology of Procrastination: Causes and Interventions
• Exploring the Connection Between Music and Mood: The Emotional Power of Music
• The Impact of Technology on Cognitive Development in Children
• The Psychology of Body Image: Media Influence and Societal Standards
• The Role of Attachment Theory in Understanding Interpersonal Relationships
• The Psychology of Leadership: Traits and Behaviors of Effective Leaders
• Analyzing the Psychological Factors Contributing to Eating Disorders
• The Influence of Gender Stereotypes on Career Choices: A Psychological Perspective
• The Psychology of Resilience: Coping Mechanisms in the Face of Adversity
• The Effects of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Anxiety and Depression
• The Psychological Impact of Environmental Factors on Human Behavior
• The Relationship Between Personality Traits and Academic Achievement
• The Role of Psychology in Criminal Profiling and Investigative Techniques
• The Psychological Effects of Virtual Reality: Immersion and Presence
• Understanding the Psychology of Humor: The Cognitive and Emotional Aspects
• The Impact of Social Support on Mental Health Outcomes: A Comprehensive Study

EPQ Ideas for History

• The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Society and Economy
• The Role of Women in Ancient Civilizations: A Comparative Study
• The Causes and Consequences of World War I: A Comprehensive Analysis
• The Significance of the Renaissance in European Cultural and Intellectual History
• The Legacy of Colonialism in Modern Africa: Social and Economic Impacts
• The Cultural and Political Effects of the Black Death in Medieval Europe
• The Rise and Fall of Ancient Empires: A Comparative Study of Rome and Persia
• The Harlem Renaissance: Cultural Flourishing in 1920s America
• The Impact of the Silk Road on Global Trade and Cultural Exchange
• The Cuban Missile Crisis: Cold War Tensions and Nuclear Diplomacy
• The Enlightenment and Its Influence on Modern Political Thought
• The Reconstruction Era in the United States: Successes, Failures, and Legacies
• The Role of Propaganda in Shaping Public Opinion During World War II
• The Cultural Revolution in China: Socio-Political Changes and Consequences
• The Mayan Civilization: Achievements, Decline, and Cultural Legacy
• The Causes and Effects of the French Revolution: A Historical Analysis
• The Role of Religion in Shaping Medieval European Society
• The Vietnam War: Causes, Course, and Legacy
• The Impact of the Bubonic Plague on Medieval European Society
• The Transatlantic Slave Trade: Historical Roots and Lasting Effects
• The Suffragette Movement: Women's Struggle for Voting Rights
• The Partition of India: Historical Roots and Socio-Political Consequences
• The Cold War Space Race: Scientific Achievements and Political Rivalry
• The Cultural Exchange Along the Silk Road: Art, Religion, and Ideas
• The Opium Wars in China: Imperialism and Its Consequences
• The Golden Age of Islamic Civilization: Contributions to Science, Art, and Philosophy
• The Crusades: Causes, Course, and Long-Term Effects
• The Impact of the Great Depression on Global Economies
• The Roman Empire and Its Legacy: Contributions to Law, Engineering, and Governance
• The Zulu Kingdom: Rise, Expansion, and Resistance to Colonial Rule

EPQ Ideas for Mathematics

• The P versus NP Problem: Unraveling the Complexity of Algorithms
• Fermat's Last Theorem: From Conjecture to Proof
• Fractals in Nature and Art: Exploring Mathematical Patterns
• Game Theory and Its Applications in Economics and Decision-Making
• The Riemann Hypothesis: A Deep Dive into Number Theory
• Graph Theory: Applications in Network Analysis and Optimization
• The Beauty of Mathematical Symmetry: Aesthetic and Structural Significance
• The Four Color Theorem: Coloring Maps with the Fewest Colors
• The Mathematics of Cryptography: Ensuring Information Security
• Knot Theory: Unraveling the Mathematics of Tangles and Knots
• The History and Impact of Calculus on Science and Engineering
• Prime Numbers and Cryptography: The RSA Algorithm
• The Applications of Probability Theory in Real-world Scenarios
• The Mathematics of Music: Harmonic Analysis and Composition
• Coding Theory: Error Detection and Correction in Data Transmission
• The Golden Ratio: Its Presence in Art, Architecture, and Nature
• The Traveling Salesman Problem: Optimization in Route Planning
• Hyperbolic Geometry: A Non-Euclidean Approach to Geometry
• The Application of Fourier Analysis in Signal Processing
• The Navier-Stokes Equations: Challenges in Fluid Dynamics
• The Mathematics of Climate Modeling: Understanding Global Patterns
• Zero Knowledge Proofs: Enhancing Security in Cryptography
• Combinatorial Game Theory: Strategies and Winning Strategies
• The Application of Fibonacci Numbers in Nature and Mathematics
• The Mathematics of Artificial Intelligence: Algorithms and Learning Models
• The Collatz Conjecture: An Unresolved Problem in Number Theory
• Mathematics in Ancient Civilizations: Contributions and Discoveries
• The Role of Topology in Understanding Shapes and Spaces
• The Mathematics of Quantum Mechanics: Probability and Wave Functions

EPQ Ideas for Film Studies

• The Evolution of Film Genres: A Comparative Analysis of Classic and Contemporary Approaches
• The Impact of Streaming Services on the Film Industry: Challenges and Opportunities
• The Representation of Gender and Sexuality in Contemporary Cinema
• Cinematic Adaptations of Literature: Analyzing the Translation from Page to Screen
• The Influence of Film Scores on Audience Perception and Emotional Engagement
• The Role of Film Festivals in Shaping Global Cinema and Cultural Exchange
• The Art of Cinematography: Exploring the Work of Influential Cinematographers
• The Rise of Independent Cinema: A Critical Examination of Indie Filmmaking
• The Use of Color in Film: Symbolism and Visual Storytelling
• The Impact of Digital Technology on Film Production and Special Effects
• The Representation of Mental Health Issues in Cinema: A Critical Analysis
• Film Censorship: Examining the Ethics and Implications of Content Regulation
• The Auteur Theory: Analyzing the Creative Vision of Film Directors
• The Portrayal of Historical Events in Film: Accuracy and Interpretation
• The Influence of Cultural Diversity on Film Narratives and Storytelling
• The Golden Age of Hollywood: Examining the Studio System and its Legacy
• The Impact of Social Media on Film Promotion and Audience Reception
• The Role of Sound Design in Film: Enhancing Narrative and Atmosphere
• Cinematic Representations of Identity: Race, Ethnicity, and Nationality
• The Use of Symbolism in Surrealist Cinema: A Study of Visual Metaphors
• The Influence of French New Wave Cinema on Filmmaking Techniques
• The Role of Costume Design in Period Films: Creating Authenticity
• Cinematic Depictions of War: Propaganda, Realism, and Anti-War Messages
• The Impact of Film on Cultural Memory: Examining Cinematic Histories
• The Intersection of Animation and Technology: Innovations and Trends
• The Representation of LGBTQ+ Characters in Mainstream Cinema
• The Legacy of Silent Cinema: Influence on Contemporary Filmmaking
• Cinematic Depictions of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics: Ethical Considerations
• The Use of Film as a Form of Political Activism: Case Studies and Analysis
• The Influence of Film Noir on Modern Crime and Mystery Genres

EPQ Ideas for Business

• The Impact of E-commerce on Traditional Retail: A Comparative Analysis
• Corporate Social Responsibility: Assessing its Role in Business Ethics
• The Rise of Gig Economy: Implications for Workers and Businesses
• Digital Marketing Strategies: A Comparative Study of Successful Campaigns
• The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Business Decision-Making
• The Influence of Globalization on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)
• The Future of Work: Examining Trends in Remote Work and Flexibility
• Entrepreneurship in the Digital Age: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
• The Impact of COVID-19 on Business Models and Economic Resilience
• Strategic Management: Analyzing the Approaches of Successful Companies
• The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership and Organizational Success
• Supply Chain Resilience: Lessons Learned from Global Disruptions
• Corporate Governance: Evaluating the Relationship Between Boards and Performance
• The Role of Innovation in Sustainable Business Practices
• The Effects of Consumer Behavior on Marketing Strategies and Branding
• Business Analytics: Leveraging Data for Informed Decision-Making
• The Impact of Diversity and Inclusion on Organizational Performance
• The Circular Economy: Shifting Towards Sustainable Business Practices
• Financial Technology (Fintech): Revolutionizing the Banking and Finance Industry
• Strategies for Managing Organizational Change: Case Studies and Best Practices
• The Role of Leadership Styles in Organizational Culture and Productivity
• The Influence of Corporate Culture on Employee Engagement and Performance
• Economic Impact of Mergers and Acquisitions: A Comparative Analysis
• The Role of Branding in Consumer Loyalty and Market Positioning
• The Integration of Blockchain Technology in Business Operations
• Corporate Innovation: Strategies for Fostering Creativity and Adaptability
• The Impact of Trade Policies on Global Business Operations
• Evaluating the Effectiveness of Employee Training and Development Programs
• Business Resilience in Times of Crisis: Strategies for Sustainability
• The Role of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems in Enhancing Business Success

EPQ Ideas for Medicine

• The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Diagnosing Medical Conditions
• The Impact of Telemedicine on Healthcare Accessibility
• Precision Medicine: Tailoring Treatments Based on Genetic Factors
• Exploring the Ethics of Human Gene Editing in Medicine
• The Relationship Between Gut Microbiota and Mental Health
• Analyzing the Effectiveness of Vaccination Programs in Preventing Diseases
• The Role of Stem Cell Therapy in Regenerative Medicine
• The Implications of CRISPR Technology in Genetic Medicine
• The Use of Nanomedicine in Cancer Treatment
• The Psychological Impact of Chronic Illness on Patients
• Global Health Disparities: Challenges and Solutions
• The Role of Artificial Organs in Transplantation Medicine
• The Intersection of Medicine and Artificial Intelligence in Imaging Diagnosis
• The Impact of Lifestyle Factors on Cardiovascular Health
• The Rise of Antibiotic Resistance: Causes and Strategies for Mitigation
• The Role of Epigenetics in Disease Development and Prevention
• The Ethics of Organ Transplantation: Allocation and Donor Criteria
• The Influence of Socioeconomic Factors on Healthcare Disparities
• The Use of Virtual Reality in Medical Training and Patient Care
• The Relationship Between Mental Health and Inflammatory Disorders
• Exploring the Potential of CRISPR in Treating Genetic Disorders
• The Impact of Climate Change on the Spread of Infectious Diseases
• The Application of 3D Printing in Medicine: Customized Implants and Prosthetics
• The Role of Medical Imaging in Early Disease Detection
• The Ethical Considerations of Human Cloning in Medicine
• The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Function and Mental Health
• The Use of Robotics in Surgery: Advancements and Challenges
• The Psychological Factors in Patient Adherence to Treatment Plans
• The Impact of Social Determinants on Maternal and Child Health

EPQ Ideas for Engineering

• The Future of Sustainable Transportation: Electric Vehicles and Beyond
• Smart Cities: Integrating Technology for Urban Development
• The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Engineering Design and Automation
• Renewable Energy Integration into the Power Grid: Challenges and Solutions
• Biomimicry in Engineering: Learning from Nature for Innovative Design
• 3D Printing in Aerospace: Advancements and Applications
• The Impact of Internet of Things (IoT) on Industrial Automation
• The Use of Drones in Civil Engineering: Monitoring and Surveying
• Hydraulic Fracturing (Fracking): Engineering Challenges and Environmental Impacts
• The Advancements in Materials Science for Aerospace Applications
• Designing Resilient Infrastructure: Strategies for Mitigating Natural Disasters
• The Role of Engineers in Space Exploration: Challenges and Contributions
• The Integration of Blockchain Technology in Engineering Systems
• The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Vehicles
• The Future of High-Speed Rail: Technological Developments and Challenges
• Biomedical Engineering: Innovations in Medical Devices and Prosthetics
• The Use of Virtual Reality in Engineering Design and Simulation
• The Impact of Climate Change on Civil Engineering Infrastructure
• The Potential of Quantum Computing in Solving Complex Engineering Problems
• Carbon Capture and Storage: Engineering Solutions for Climate Change
• The Application of Machine Learning in Structural Health Monitoring
• The Role of Engineers in Disaster Response and Emergency Management
• Human-Centric Design in Robotics: Enhancing Human-Machine Interaction
• The Challenges and Opportunities in Developing Smart Grids
• The Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare Engineering
• The Impact of 5G Technology on Communication Networks and Infrastructure
• The Engineering Behind Sustainable Architecture and Building Design
• The Future of Transportation: Hyperloop Technology and Maglev Trains
• The Role of Engineering in Water Treatment and Environmental Conservation
• The Challenges of Cybersecurity in Critical Infrastructure Systems

EPQ Ideas for Teaching

• The Impact of Technology on Classroom Learning: Opportunities and Challenges
• Inclusive Education: Strategies for Catering to Diverse Learning Needs
• The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Teaching Practices
• Examining the Efficacy of Flipped Classroom Models in Education
• The Influence of Teacher Expectations on Student Performance
• Integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) into the Curriculum
• The Use of Gamification in Education: Engaging Students through Games
• Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of Remote Teaching and Learning
• Culturally Responsive Teaching: Creating Inclusive and Equitable Classrooms
• The Impact of Early Childhood Education on Cognitive Development
• Teacher Burnout: Causes, Prevention, and Strategies for Well-being
• Assessment Methods in Education: A Comparative Analysis
• The Role of Mindfulness in Teacher Professional Development
• Parental Involvement in Education: Its Influence on Student Success
• The Integration of Project-Based Learning in the Classroom
• The Effectiveness of Cooperative Learning Strategies in Primary Education
• Teacher-Student Relationships: Their Impact on Academic Achievement
• The Influence of Educational Leadership on School Culture
• The Impact of Standardized Testing on Curriculum and Instruction
• The Role of Educational Technology in Special Education
• The Importance of Teacher Training in Addressing Learning Disabilities
• The Psychology of Motivation in Education: Strategies for Student Engagement
• Promoting Critical Thinking in the Classroom: Strategies and Approaches
• Teacher Professional Development: Models for Continuous Learning
• The Benefits of Outdoor Education: Enhancing Learning through Nature
• The Role of Educational Psychology in Teaching and Learning
• Innovative Teaching Methods: Exploring Unconventional Approaches
• The Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Educational Attainment
• The Influence of Teacher Feedback on Student Performance
• Educational Policies: Examining Their Effects on Classroom Practices

EPQ Ideas for Art

• The Evolution of Street Art: From Vandalism to Recognized Art Form
• Art and Activism: The Role of Visual Arts in Social Change
• Analyzing the Impact of Technology on Contemporary Art Practices
• The Influence of Cultural Diversity on Artistic Expression
• The Relationship Between Art and Mental Health: Exploring Therapeutic Benefits
• Art Conservation and Restoration: Balancing Preservation and Intervention
• The Intersection of Art and Artificial Intelligence: Creative Collaborations
• Feminist Art Movements: Examining Gender Representation in Art
• Surrealism in Contemporary Art: Resurgence and Modern Interpretations
• The Influence of Japanese Woodblock Prints on Western Art
• The Role of Public Art Installations in Urban Spaces
• The Representation of Identity in Contemporary Portraiture
• Exploring the Aesthetics of Environmental Art: Eco-conscious Creations
• The Impact of Photography on Traditional Painting: A Comparative Study
• Digital Art: Challenges and Opportunities in the Age of Technology
• The Psychological Impact of Color in Visual Arts: A Cross-Cultural Analysis
• Street Photography: Documenting Urban Life Through the Lens
• The Legacy of Abstract Expressionism: Influences on Contemporary Art
• The Role of Art in Holocaust Memorials and Commemoration
• Art as a Form of Protest: Examining Political Artistic Movements
• Cubism and Beyond: The Influence of Geometric Abstraction in Art
• The Impact of Social Media on Contemporary Art Practices
• The Intersection of Art and Science: Bioart and Technological Innovations
• Artistic Responses to Global Crises: War, Pandemics, and Climate Change
• The Representation of Women in Renaissance Art: Challenging Stereotypes
• Graffiti as an Artistic Expression: Breaking Down Stereotypes
• The Art Market: Commercialization and its Effects on Artistic Integrity
• The Influence of Indigenous Art on Modern and Contemporary Art Movements
• The Role of Museums in Shaping Artistic Discourse and Public Perception
• Art and Philosophy: Exploring the Relationship Between Visual and Conceptual Expression

EPQ Ideas for Politics

• The Impact of Social Media on Political Campaigns and Public Opinion
• Globalization and Its Effects on National Sovereignty
• The Rise of Populism: Causes, Consequences, and Challenges
• The Role of Women in Politics: Breaking Barriers and Redefining Leadership
• Climate Change Policy: Assessing International Cooperation and Challenges
• The Impact of Political Polarization on Democracy
• The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in International Relations
• Examining the Effectiveness of Electoral Systems: Proportional Representation vs. First-Past-The-Post
• The Ethics of Political Lobbying: Balancing Influence and Transparency
• The Relationship Between Economic Inequality and Political Instability
• Human Rights in the Digital Age: Challenges and Protections
• The Impact of Political Advertising on Voter Behavior
• The Influence of Political Cartoons on Public Perception
• Nationalism vs. Globalism: Debates and Implications in Contemporary Politics
• The Role of Political Satire in Shaping Public Discourse
• The Evolution of International Institutions: United Nations and Beyond
• The Impact of Cyber Warfare on International Relations
• The Rise of Authoritarianism: Global Trends and Regional Variances
• The Relationship Between Religion and Politics: Secularism vs. Theocracy
• Political Corruption: Causes, Consequences, and Strategies for Prevention
• The Politics of Immigration: National Security, Humanitarian Concerns, and Economic Impact
• The Impact of Disinformation on Elections and Democratic Processes
• The Role of Supranational Organizations in Shaping Global Governance
• The Politics of Climate Change: International Agreements and Domestic Policies
• The Influence of Political Ideologies on Policy Decision-Making
• The Role of Political Satire in Challenging Authoritarian Regimes
• The Impact of Political Activism and Protest Movements on Policy Change
• The Politics of Identity: Ethnicity, Race, and Nationalism
• The Role of Youth in Shaping Political Movements and Change
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Political Decision-Making

How Many UCAS Points are in an EPQ?

The EPQ carries up to 28 UCAS points, depending on what grade you achieve.

Essentially, the EPQ is worth half the UCAS points of an A-level. Here are the different UCAS points you’ll get for different grades on your EPQ:

How Many UCAS Points in an EPQ?

Is the EPQ the Right Step for You?

An EPQ is time consuming, but the UCAS points and its other benefits could very well be worth the effort.

The question you’ll need to ask yourself is can you comfortably dedicate the time needed for it? Are the extra UCAS points needed for your dream university?

Speak with one of our expert advisors to find out if an EPQ is the right step for the perfect application. Students working with Crimson are 7x more likely to gain admission to their dream university!

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EPQ essay stands for Extended Project Qualification essay. It is an independent research project undertaken by students, allowing them to explore a topic of their choice in-depth and produce an extended essay enhancing critical thinking and research skills.

As students begin their college assignments, they have to complete an independent research project that is long, intensive, and takes more time to complete.

So by completing EPQ essays, students uncover the ability to develop creative thinking and analytical problem-solving skills that will help them to get into their desired colleges.

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This comprehensive guide aims to provide valuable insights into EPQ essay examples, guiding toward crafting outstanding EPQ essay papers that demonstrate their academic prowess.

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What is EPQ Essay?

EPQ essays serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for individuals working on their EPQ projects. This write-up showcases the structure, content, and quality of essays that have achieved excellence. 

By examining successful EPQ essays, you gain a deeper understanding of effective research methodologies , critical analysis , and compelling presentation techniques.

How to Crafting an Outstanding EPQ Essay?

To create an EPQ essay that stands out, you should consider the following key elements to writing your own EPQ essay:

1. Choosing an Engaging Topic

Select a topic that aligns with your interests, which will keep you motivated throughout the research process . Additionally, ensure that your chosen subject has sufficient academic resources to support your analysis and arguments.

2. Effective Research Methodology

Devise a well-structured research plan encompassing primary and secondary research methods . This will enable you to gather a diverse range of information and perspectives, enhancing the credibility and depth of your essay.

3. Structuring the Essay

Organize your essay into logical sections, including an introduction, methodology, analysis, findings , and conclusion. This coherent structure allows readers to navigate through your work seamlessly, following your arguments and insights effortlessly.

4. Compelling Introduction

Begin your essay with a captivating introduction that clearly states your research question or objective. Engage your readers by providing context, significance, and a glimpse of what they can expect from your essay.

5. Thorough Analysis and Critical Thinking

Demonstrate your analytical skills by critically evaluating your research findings and existing literature. Incorporate different perspectives and theories to enrich your arguments and provide a well-rounded analysis of your topic.

6. Well-Supported Arguments

Back up your claims with credible evidence, such as academic research , case studies , or expert opinions. Ensure that your sources are reliable and properly cited, adhering to academic integrity standards.

7. Coherent Writing Style

Maintain a clear and concise writing style throughout your essay. Use appropriate academic language and terminology to convey your ideas effectively. Avoid excessive jargon and strive for clarity without sacrificing depth.

8. Effective Conclusion

Summarize your key findings and arguments in a concise and impactful conclusion. Emphasize the significance of your research and its potential implications. Leave your readers with a thought-provoking ending that encourages further exploration of the topic.

By incorporating these essential elements, you can create an outstanding EPQ essay that showcases your research skills and academic excellence.

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Example EPQ Essay: An Insightful Guide

When it comes to EPQ example essays, one aspect that captures attention is the word count. Many students wonder how to effectively manage an EPQ 5000-word essay example. Fear not, for we have carefully curated a diverse selection of EPQ essay examples to shed light on this matter.

• Abstract: This essay examines the various consequences of climate change on coastal ecosystems, focusing on the ecological disruptions caused by rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and extreme weather events.
• Methodology: The author employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining scientific research, statistical analysis, and case studies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the subject matter.
• Findings: The essay highlights the vulnerability of coastal ecosystems, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable practices and environmental conservation measures.
• Conclusion: The author concludes by emphasizing the importance of collective action in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change on coastal ecosystems.

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In the pursuit of academic excellence, EPQ essay examples offer a guiding light, enabling individuals to navigate the complexities of research, analysis, and presentation. By harnessing the power of these examples, you can unlock their full potential and produce outstanding work that contributes to the scholarly discourse.

So, let the rich and diverse world of EPQ essay examples inspire and guide you on your academic journey. Harness the power of these examples to unlock your own academic excellence and make a meaningful impact in your chosen field of study.

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1400+ EPQ Ideas That Guarantee An A* (For Each Subject)

In A-Level by Think Student Editor February 21, 2019 45 Comments

Disclaimer: These EPQ ideas are only here to inspire you and (hopefully) help point you in the right direction.

When creating this list, we researched all over the web to see what EPQ ideas people had in the past. We added the EPQ ideas, that we thought were suitable, to the list. However, many of these EPQ ideas were thought up by fellow students for the purpose of this article.

Anyway, we hope you find inspiration from at least one of the EPQ ideas below.

Table of Contents

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Medicine

1. do care homes provide adequate care to dementia patients.

This extended project idea is a fantastic one to explore if you are interested in the support networks that are available across the United Kingdom for patients that can’t look after themselves independently due to factors outside of their control (such as dementia). If you decide to pick an idea surrounding dementia, it is important to know a wide range of facts about the condition. Due to this, a helpful book on dementia might be worth reading  ( personal recommendation here). 

2. The ethical issues surrounding stem cell research

Stem cell treatment has been on the rise ever since its initial development. Along with the rise of stem cell treatment usage, a rise in ethical questions surrounding the practise has accompanied it. Below are some example of questions that could be discussed if you were inspired by this project idea:

• Is it right to destroy human embryos in order to harvest stem cells?
• If life doesn’t begin at contraception, does that make stem cell research more ethical?
• If stem cell research becomes highly effective, should we still research alternative treatments that don’t have ethical doubts?

If you want more information surrounding stem cells and their use in treatments,  take a look at this book.

3. Should self-inflicted illnesses be treated by the NHS?

There are so many different aspects that you could talk about when it comes to this EPQ idea, as there are so many unique situations that can be discussed. An interesting angle for this idea would be how the NHS would differentiate self-inflicted physical illnesses and mental illnesses – these two overlap heavily, therefore they would make for a really interesting talking point.

Another topic that could be discussed is the physical effects of mental depression on an individual. If you’re interested,  take a look at this book that talks about depression in significantly more detail.

4. How much should doctors and nurses be paid?

Many people would argue that doctors and nurses belong in the most important profession group there is – with the people who disagree with that, still thinking that they are extremely important to the operation of our society. Although there is wide spread agreement on how important doctors and nurses are, not many people agree on how much they should be paid for their work.

The disagreement, when it comes to medical worker’ pay, makes this idea an interesting and somewhat controversial point of discussion for your extended project.

5. At what point does gene editing become unethical?

With medical advancements becoming significantly more prevalent in modern day society, ethical issues are needing to be considered. Some scientific and medical experts are considered to be “narrow-minded” and too focused on their field, which many believe leaves them in a position where they perhaps overlook the ethical considerations surrounding their line of research.

Gene editing is one such area of contention, where people can find themselves feeling uncomfortable with the idea of modifying naturally-produced genes. CRISPR-Cas9 is a recent method used when performing gene alterations and if you decide to complete an EPQ project, based on gene modifications, an understanding of CRISPR and the Cas9 protein is essential. Some useful resources surrounding CRISPR-Cas9 are listed below:

• LiveScience – What is CRISPR?
• Amazon.co.uk – Gene-Edited Babies
• Amazon.co.uk – The Power of CRISPR

6. Is mass-cloning of livestock a good idea?

The financial potential of mass-cloning in the agriculture sector is massive and that is exactly why the idea of it has manifested into a reality. There is so much to talk about when it comes to not only the draw backs of mass-cloning, but also the advantages. I recommend that you take a look at  this book by Joseph Panno,  which explores the history of animal cloning, the experiments undertaken and the potential impact of the artificial development of the process.

7. Should we use medication to treat mental health problems or focus on other forms of treatment?

Relying on medication to control emotions is a problem and it is definitely not the correct method, if used in isolation. That being said, medication usage, with proper supervision, can be unbelievably effective in temporarily tough situations.

If choosing an EPQ that matches the theme of this idea, some medication that you could discuss are listed below  (more can be found here):

• Escitalopram
• Fluvoxamine

Alternatively, below are some treatments that do not require prescription drug usage:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Diet and Nutritional Input

8. Should animal testing, in regards to medications, be allowed?

The contributions of animals to the medical field have been monumental in the development of vaccines, treatments and cures. However, just because animal usage increases human safety and trial effectiveness, does that necessarily mean it should be allowed?

The book named  Animal Testing (Debating the Issues) by Gail Terp  discusses many views points surrounding the issue of animal testing.  Providing you don’t plagiarise any of his arguments or viewpoints,  it can be a really helpful resource for you when completing your EPQ.

9. Why is asthma raging out of control?

7.7% of American adults have asthma  according to a CDC study.  This means that asthma is extremely widespread and impacts millions of people each year. In addition to this,  asthma has been on the rise since the 1980s in all demographics.

In your extend project essay, you could discuss the factors that have contributed to asthma’s rise and you could even go as far to make projections as to when the “asthma curve” will plateau.

10. Could there ever be any viable medications for obesity?

Obesity is often the result of a lack of exercise, usually combined with an uncontrolled diet. However, obesity can also be complicated by factors out of someone’s control. These factors could include an underlying physical condition.

In these cases, where an underlying condition is causing obesity-related problems, could medication to treat that condition subsequently fix the obesity itself? If so, in your EPQ, you could discuss the factors that can cause obesity and which ones could benefit from either current or future medications.

11 – 70 Additional Extended Project Qualification Ideas

11. How should we define health and disease? 12. Is euthanasia ever appropriate and why? 13. How do abortion treatments affect the mind and body? 14. How often does overdiagnosis occur and what are the effects of it? 15. How effective are home remedies compared with pharmaceutical drugs? 16. How long will it be before our antibiotics stop working and what effect will this have? 17. How much is unnecessary healthcare costing the NHS? 18. What’s to stop another disaster such as the thalidomide scandal happening again? 19. Are the consequences of breaking patient confidentiality severe enough? 20. Should pharmaceutical companies be privately owned? 21. Are nurses and doctors trained appropriately for emergency situations? 22. Would the increased use of technology in hospitals reduce medical mistakes? 23. Are prejudice and racism affecting the performance of the NHS? 24. Who is to blame for the lack of knowledge in personal health across the UK? 25. How is our food supply chain affecting the effectiveness of antibiotics? 26. Is the UK healthcare system prepared for a pandemic? 27. How has medical error become so common in healthcare? 28. Medicinal marijuana and its effect on the brain and body. 29. Is addiction to painkillers properly managed by the NHS? 30. Why are so many people unaware of how common drugs work? 31. The ethics surrounding human experiments and trials. 32. Is bioprinting the future of organ transplants? 33. Were doctors responsible for the opioid epidemic? 34. What are the elements of nanotechnology and is it helpful in treating cancer? 35. The impact financial resources have on the NHS and its treatment success. 36. The role of antidepressants in treating depression. 37. Should homeless people have a right to free medical treatment? 38. Should heroin addicts be administered injections to recover from their substance abuse? 39. What role does the World Health Organisation (WHO) play in combating epidemics? 40. Can people with different ethnicities be affected differently by the exact same disease? 41. What are the steps taken when developing a new vaccine? 42. How does smoking influence the effectiveness of modern medicine? 43. Why does the NHS not have enough funding and are they spending their current funds inefficiently? 44. How to tell the difference between viral and bacterial infections. 45. What impact do support workers have on the NHS and what do they do? 46. Should junior doctors be trusted to carry out life-changing surgeries? 47. Are care homes run properly and should more detailed checks be carried out? 48. Is the main ingredient for a good healthcare system money? 49. Are our phones spreading colds, diseases, and cases of flu? 50. Is the mental health of doctors and nurses being taken seriously enough? 51. Should the NHS be privatised? 52. Does healthcare rely on technology too much? 53. Should vaccination be made compulsory? 54. Why is medical malpractice on the rise within the NHS? 55. Do clinical trials for new drugs take too long? 56. How have treatments for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s developed over time? 57. What effect does music have on the human brain? 58. Is a Vegan diet better for the human body? 59. Whose decision should it be to turn off life support for an ill baby? 60. What methods could be employed to completely eliminate Malaria? 61. Could there ever be a single cure for all cancers? 62. What really causes Alzheimer’s disease? 63. Could we ever stop ageing? 64. Is healthcare a human right? 65. Should medically assisted suicide be legal? 66. At what point does an embryo or foetus become alive? 67. How much control should doctors have over society’s choices? 68. Poliomyelitis and how it affects a sufferer within society 69. How big is the risk of someone waking up during a general anaesthesia? 70. How does long term stress affect your physical body?

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Psychology

1. is it ethical to use psychological ‘tricks’ to benefit the economy.

Psychology as a subject has a huge range of applications, and so it is important to consider where the uses of psychological ‘tricks’ are ethical and when they are not. There are plenty of ways that individuals can be manipulated to behave in certain ways, but should these be used in relation to the economy, or is it too unethical – even if it leads to overall benefits?

You may want to think about how psychology could be used:

• In marketing/advertising
• In persuading people to do essential things, such as paying bills

This idea gives you a wide range of things to think about and discuss, though you may want to get started by having a look at  this book about economic psychology.

2. How observations made by the trolley problem will become useful as self-driving cars are developed

The trolley problem is a well-known psychology experiment which has a huge ethical element. But how can it be applied to everyday situations? The development of self-driving cars is sparking many ethical debates, as well as concerns about safety.

A great idea for your project would be to consider how the trolley problem can be applied to the development of self-driving cars.

To get you started on this idea, you may want to consider the trolley problem in depth, and what the implications of the reaction to the problem are. Here is a  helpful book which might be able to get you started  on developing your answer to this question.

3. What goes on inside the brain of someone who is prejudiced?

Prejudice is a prevalent issue within society today, and understanding its causes in individuals, may enable us as a society to combat the issues that arise as a result of prejudice. This is an incredibly interesting area to look at, and would make for a great discussion in your EPQ.

Although prejudice is a very broad term, there are some books which may help you start thinking about your project, and one of my recommendations can be  found here . This is just a starting point, and may provide you with some insight into the research which you would like to find out more about in order to apply it to your question.

4. How someone’s brain changes when they are in love

Love is an ambiguous concept, and therefore understanding it, and the effect that it has on individuals is a very interesting subject to explore. You may find that love has an impact on the brain in a number of different contexts. Literature is available for different areas of this kind of research.

For example, you may be interested in studying the impact of love on the brain:

• In terms of romantic relationships
• In babies and infants

You apart from looking at published books, you may also be able to gain some insight into this topic from news articles, such as  this one . If a subject is of current interest and being covered in the news, it is likely that there will be more recent research for you to use in your project.

5. Why do some people combat depression by excessive eating?

Depression, its causes, and possible treatments are all topics of huge general interest at the moment. Researching the coping mechanisms of some individuals who are going through depression incorporates an interest in mental health issues with a current and relevant problem.

In more general terms, you may want to consider the impact that diet has on depression, and whether it should be emphasised to individuals who are suffering from depression. There are many books and research papers out there which may inspire your project, including:

• Anxiety & Depression: Eat Your Way to Better Health
• The Inflamed Mind

6. How the Asch Conformity experiment contributed to the field of Psychology

One of the key experiments in the psychological field is Asch’s conformity experiment. It has led to the development of new ideas in the field of social influence (i.e. conformity), and has also produced real-world knowledge and applications.

You may be interested in finding out about the wider implications of this research in the field of psychology, and there are a number of specific impacts which you could discuss in your work. There is already some literature out there which discusses classic studies such as these, and you may want to use them as a starting point for your own research.  This book  may be a good place to start.

7. Was John Money’s gender reassignment experiment unethical?

Ethics are an important part of psychology, and controversial research studies such as the one conducted by John Money are incredibly interesting to discuss (a summary of Money’s research can be  found here ).

Gender and its role in society and individuals’ lives is an incredibly relevant topic now and the implications of study such as this could have wide implications (if valid), but were the techniques used ethical? And could the findings be generalised to the wider population?

If you are interested in psychology, a project which demonstrates your understanding of ethics is something that will be incredibly useful.

8. How does child abuse affect someone’s mind later in life?

Child abuse is a very sensitive topic, and the impacts of it can be huge. Although this may be a difficult subject to investigate, it is incredibly important that we have an understanding of issues such as these.

Some of the areas which you may want to discuss include:

• The impact on future romantic and peer relationships
• The impact on having children of your own

You may also want to look into individual stories about abuse and its impacts, as well as the coping strategies that people use to make it possible for them to move forward in their lives as best as they can. An example of a story from a survivor can be found  here.

9. Would children with mild learning difficulties perform better if they weren’t told about their disadvantage?

This is a huge debate in psychology, and would be a really interesting topic to tackle in your EPQ. The impact of mild learning difficulties on the lives of individuals is something important that should be understood in detail.

The impact of a diagnosis could be huge, and there is a debate about whether individuals should be told about learning difficulty diagnoses if it does not impair them in their everyday lives. You may want to think about:

• In which scenarios is it not useful to give a diagnosis?
• Is it ethical to withhold a diagnosis, even if it may have a negative impact on the individual’s life?

10. Which parenting style is the best for a child’s future?

Every parent thinks that their parenting style is the most effective and beneficial for their children in the long term, but is there one way to raise children that is really the best for them?

This topic is great for an EPQ idea, as there are so many aspects which you could discuss. There is also a wide range of literature available out there to guide parents through parenting techniques, and you may want to take a look at these as a basis for evaluating techniques in terms of how effective they are. An example of useful literature could include  this book.

You may want to narrow down this topic by looking at specific techniques which are beneficial for one specific age group.

11. How do hallucinations affect the brain and its functions? 12. Borderline personality disorder – its elements and the methods used to treat it. 13. What psychological effects do animals have on the human brain? 14. The Stanford prison experiment and its effects on modern psychology. 15. Does spending more time within nature positively influence mental health? 16. How does being an only child impact social development? 17. Have the methods utilised by rehabilitation centres proven to be effective? 18. The effects of PTSD on family relationships. 19. How do diet and exercise affect the mind? 20. How necessary is social interaction for a human? 21. Should therapy be free for people who witness extraordinary violence? 22. How have suicide rates developed in the last century? 23. The elements and effects of Lyme disease on the brain. 24. What is the psychological impact of drinking alcohol? 25. Does premature birth always impact a child’s cognitive development? 26. Do parents’ expectations of their children affect their mental health? 27. Can you generalise the results of animal testing for humans? 28. How does the body repair itself after severe brain damage? 29. The detrimental effect of attachment issues on relationships. 30. What is the best experimental design for observing natural human behaviour? 31. What were Konrad Lorenz’s contributions to the field of psychology? 32. What are the implications of conditioning in psychology? 33. How did Albert Bandura’s studies aid the understanding of violence in children? 34. When do babies first start remembering and for what duration? 35. What factors influence the likelihood of getting dementia? 36. In what ways can you slow down the development of Parkinson’s? 37. What are the potential effects that vitamin deficiencies can have on a babies development within the womb? 38. How does ADHD arise in young children and what are the factors leading to it? 39. Schizophrenia and its impact on children. 40. Do genetics have a part to play in depression? 41. The ways concussion can have lasting effects on the brain’s functions. 42. Autism on a spectrum and its diagnosis. 43. How does connectivity within the brain affect the ability to learn new skills? 44. The ongoing effects of epilepsy on patients and their families. 45. How does the brain of someone with bipolar disorder work? 46. What are the complications involved in treating elderly patients with dementia? 47. Psychosis in children and its difficulties. 48. Is it possible for the brain to be in a complete state of concentration? 49. How does a hearing impairment impact balance and the brain? 50. How does the perception of colour occur and what effect does it have on our emotions? 51. What does someone’s non-verbal behaviour say about them? 52. How governments control a population’s behaviour on a massive scale. 53. What characteristics make someone a good leader? 54. How often do mental disorders stem from previously occurring physical disabilities? 55. To what extent could an obsession with a particular individual be classed as a mental illness? 56. The long-lasting effects of PTSD across Britain after World War 1. 57. Do we know what causes an addictive personality yet? 58. The impact of OCD on a sufferer within today’s society. 59. The advancements being made within the field of programmed consciousness. 60. The psychological effects loneliness can have on an individual. 61. What makes a child become a bully? 62. Does letting a child play violent games make them more aggressive? 63. What do someone’s dreams really say about them? 64. Why do people struggle so much to focus in the short term to achieve long term goals? 65. Why does the brain create false memories? 66. What makes a child antisocial? 67. Why do people have irrational phobias? 68. How someone’s social cognition develops over time 69. How does someone’s mind-set change as they get older? 70. What causes someone to be attracted to a particular person?

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Law

1. is capital punishment justified.

In 1955 the last women in the UK to ever be subject to capital punishment was hanged  (learn more here).  Since the abolishment of the death penalty, many have felt as if some criminals don’t face the same justice they did back in the day. However, is this thought process itself unjustified or does it have merit?

In your extended project, you could talk about so much to do with capital punishment. You could even go as far as to contrast how different countries have (and haven’t) abolished capital punishment over the years. If you decide to take on a capital punishment themed EPQ project,  this book by Simon Webb  may be useful in your research phase.

2. Is claiming insanity a loophole for criminals?

It is theorised that the association between someone with a mental illness and a someone who commits certain types of criminal activities is great. In short, crime can often be directly linked or indirectly associated with a particular mental illness.

However, would you just be cynical if you thought that some criminals use this fact as an excuse? How much merit is there in this particular accusation? If you are interested  take a look at this book on Amazon.co.uk,  regarding the relationship between mental illness and crime.

3. How does science help us solve crimes?

Forensic studies can be a fascinating field and a wide reaching one two, so why wouldn’t you write an EPQ essay about it? From DNA testing to old fashioned fingerprint recognition, there is so much you could discuss on the topic of crime and detection.

There really isn’t one particular avenue to go down with this idea, pick something you enjoy researching and writing about and go for it!

4. What are the most effective ways to lower the crime rate?

Crime is usually a topic commonly discussed at a localised level. The stories you hear about crime are usually related to a particular case or incident. However, an interesting EPQ could discuss the ways crime could be addressed at a national level, or even an international level.

Some methods that are used at a national level are as follows (all of these you could discuss in your essay):

• Reducing particular cash payment methods
• Increased background checks on specific purchases
• Enabling more transparency by use of various different disclosure schemes

A book you might find worth reading surrounding this topic  can be found here.

5. Which police interrogation method is most effective?

With lots of interrogations now being recorded, there is plenty of content out there for you to draw conclusions from, in relation to the methods used by state police during interrogations.

One angle here might be to discuss the efficacy of a particular questioning method, whilst contrasting it to how ethical said method is. Furthermore, you could also start to bring in other factors such as how difficult or easy the method is to perform. Afterall, it doesn’t matter if a certain interrogation method is 100% effective if no police officer can be trained to follow it out.   

6. What is the role of mass media during a high-profile investigation?

There is constant controversy when it comes to mass media. The height of media controversy was revealed to the public in 2016, where the “fake news” scandal hit the US and spread its wings internationally.

So, when it comes to investigations that are in the public eye, what effect does the media have on the following:

• The ability for an investigation to be carried out in a timely manor
• The outcome of an investigation
• The reliability of an investigation’s results

Fantastic books regarding the field of Criminology and the media are all over. If you find yourself wanting to go down the route of an EPQ relating to this idea, I highly recommend you find yourself a good book on the topic. An example of one such book  can be found here.

7. What special laws are there to control gangs and how do they work?

Gangs normally prop up into conversation when prisons are discussed, however, this is most definitely not the only place where gangs can form. Gangs often form in everyday society and only sometimes stretch out to prison systems.

Throughout an EPQ project, you could discuss how various different gangs have had impacts on different societies across the globe through history. After discussing the impact of gangs, I would recommend that you contrast the impacts before and after particular legislation was introduced. This way you could dive really deep into which laws worked and which ones didn’t and draw some very interesting conclusions on the best legislation to fight gang related crime.

8. The history of Scotland Yard

Scotland Yard (officially now, the New Scotland Yard), in contrast to the name, is responsible for most areas of Greater London. Not many people have significant knowledge surrounding the headquarters and it might make for a fascinating EPQ project to discuss the HQ’s impact over time.

9. How can the government undo previous wrongful convictions?

Wrongful convictions are not as rare as most people believe. In the US alone, it is estimated that between 2.3% and 5% of all prisoners currently incarcerated are innocent  (read more).  With such staggering margins of error, an evaluation on how justice systems wrongly convict innocents would be a very strong project idea.

When completing an EPQ project that discusses mischarges of justice, I believe that it would really helpful to have a bank of stories that are relatable to the idea of wrongful convictions. Due to this I personally recommend getting  this book off Amazon.co.uk.  This book is full of true stories of people who have been wrongly convicted.

10. How do international courts work and when are they used?

Not dissimilar to crime in general, courts are usually discussed on a local level. That said, international courts do exist and they can often be very, very confusing. A brief discussion on how they work would be enough to make up an entire EPQ project alone, however, putting it alongside a discussion on when they should be used would make it all the more interesting.

11. Should the UK be introducing more environmental laws? 12. Are our immigration laws sufficient? 13. Why do we still have useless and old laws that are not acted upon in today’s modern society? 14. Are the laws concerning evidence and procedures in a courtroom fair? 15. How does our legislation reflect the country’s moral principles? 16. Do legislators only pass laws for political reasons? 17. How is male rape treated differently to female rape in court? 18. How long should paternity leave be and is it a fair concept? 19. Is it possible to tamper with an employment contract? 20. At what point can law representatives intervene in family life and is there ever a justifiable reason to do this? 21. How do human rights differ in different countries? 22. How can a person’s incompetence be determined from a legal perspective? 23. Should laws be employed surrounding the area of tax avoidance? 24. To what extent is it possible to accidentally commit tax fraud? 25. Should there be limits on free speech? 26. Should voting be mandatory by law? 27. To what extent would bringing back the death penalty impact crime rate? 28. Should genetically modified food be banned under the law? 29. The blurred lines of Copyright law. 30. Should a law be introduced where all police encounters are recorded? 31. Should prenuptial agreements be more widely accepted? 32. Does modern technology aid the legal system or does it simply add unneeded complexity? 33. What should the age of criminal responsibility be, should it be different for certain crimes? 34. Should artificial intelligence be introduced into our legal system? 35. Is the hierarchy of the main civil courts the most effective way to run the legal system? 36. Are the rules regarding legal fees fair and just? 37. Have the laws successfully kept up with the times or is our current legal system outdated? 38. Should people be detained without bail before they stand trial? 39. In what circumstances should prisoners have the right to vote? 40. Is employment protection sufficient or does it need updating? 41. How do intellectual property rights affect the economy? 42. Are crimes actually enforceable? 43. What is the role of the legal system in preventing domestic violence? 44. To what extent should scientists influence the law? 45. How effective are the probation laws in the UK? 46. What effect has Brexit had on EU and UK laws? 47. How effective is the supreme court in carrying out its roles? 48. Are junior lawyers experienced enough to manage high-responsibility cases? 49. Data protection and its many faults. 50. How does the law determine what qualifies for negligence? 51. Which legal systems support refugees and how do these systems work? 52. The differences between the UK and US police forces. 53. To what extent do anti-gun laws infringe on people’s individual liberty? 54. Which methods are most effective at detecting whether or not a prison has been rejuvenated? 55. What is diplomatic immunity and why does it exist? 56. How are war crimes prosecuted? 57. At what age should children have access to the internet? 58. Is allowing women to work as front line police officers safe? 59. How can the misuse of power by the police force be dealt with effectively? 60. Should the seat belt law be removed in the UK? 61. How the internet has bred new forms of crime, such as revenge porn 62. Are the laws regarding cybercrime outdated? 63. Why can a single crime have so many different punishments? 64. How accurate are eyewitnesses to a crime? 65. How should we deal with false convictions? 66. Do police cameras violate people’s right to privacy? 67. Should prostitution be legal? 68. Where did the UK’s laws originate from? 69. Are anti-terrorism laws inflicting on people’s privacy rights? 70. How much would it economically benefit the UK to bring back the death penalty?

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Economics

1. how fair is the progressive income tax.

The first progressive income tax system was implemented in order to be fairer to each member of a country’s population, regardless of their income. From the moment the tax system was implemented, there have been widespread arguments about whether or not the system did what was intended.

The concept behind the progressive income tax system is that the more money someone makes, they higher the proportion of their income they should pay towards taxes. At least that is the idea. In reality, the proportionality of taxable income only increases in “wealth bands” which many people disagree with.

In your extended project, you could contrast the currently accepted progressive income tax system to a one of the below different tax systems:

• Regressive Tax System
• Flat Tax System

2.  Should there be a minimum wage?

National minimum wages were introduced to protect workers from getting underpaid in the workplace. A minimum wage, enforced by the government, requires every employer within a nation to pay above a certain hourly rate.

However, the concept of a minimum wage does not bring just advantages, it also can have its drawbacks. Some argue that a minimum wage can lead to unemployment and in certain cases, actually make no difference to the general population’s average wage.

If you are interested in exploring this EPQ idea,  take a look at this book on Amazon.co.uk.  It talks about the direct and indirect effects of the introduction of a minimum wage.

3. Why is inflation bad for the economy?

Inflation is something we all hear about on the news and we often don’t really have a full understanding of the economic term.

Before even considering this idea, you need to take a step back and learn what inflation is and how and why it fluctuates. Without a good understanding on the financial concept, you will struggle to draw up conclusion within your EPQ.

There are plenty of absolutely free resources on the internet that you can use to learn about inflation. Below, I have listed a few some fellow students found useful:

• Khan Academy

4. How has the UK’s economy developed over time?

With the height of the UK’s economic influence being during the British Empire, it would make for a fascinating project to explore how the UK economy changed before the Empire and since its collapse.

This is a massively broad topic as there are numerous aspects of the economy you could talk about, with each aspect having sub-aspects you could delve deep into. With this idea, it really is down to your economic preference.

5. What affect has Brexit had on the UK economy?

The Brexit vote took place in 2016 and the UK finally left the European Union in 2020. In the four years preceding the actual “divorce”, as many are calling it, the uncertainty alone had huge impacts on the UK economy. So, if just the thought of Brexit shuddered the economy, what will Brexit actually happening do to the economy?

Trade, diplomatic relations and finance are all topics you could discuss within an extended project. All of which promise to be just as controversial as the last. When completing an EPQ, make sure you are factual and try your best to be unbiased when analysing statistics.

6. What affect does illegal immigration have on the UK economy?

Immigration by itself seems to cause arguments over the dinner table, but illegal immigration is an entirely different ball game.

Many are sympathetic to illegal immigrant’s reasoning and feel that, as a country, we should be significantly more accepting of people from more challenging backgrounds. In direct contrast, some people feel as though everyone has an opportunity apply for citizenship legally and illegal immigrants should be treated with firm policy.

An interesting book by Elizabeth F. Cohen  talks about the American immigration system and its many failures. It may be worth a read, if you are considering this EPQ idea.

7. What affect does legal immigration have on theUKeconomy?

We’ve talked about illegal immigration, now let’s talk about legal immigration. Immigration is the foundation of many countries across the globe. Arguably the most powerful country in the world, the United States, was completely built up from immigrants.

If this is the case, why do so many people hate the idea of immigration and why are they often hostile to immigrants? After all, if they came to the country legally, what is the problem? Well, you could address all of those questions within your EPQ project!

8. How did the 2008 financial crisis affect the UK economy?

The 2008 crisis had wide reaching implications on economies across the globe. An essay on how different parts of the UK in particular suffered during the economic crisis may be interesting.

You could talk about the following economic statistics and how they changed:

• Unemployment rate
• Average household debt

9. The myth of “trickle down” economics

During the 2016 US presidential election, trickle-down economics was featured a few times more than once. The theory behind trick-down economics, is that when the wealthiest within a society acquire more wealth, they purchase products and this subsequently “trickles down” into the pockets of less wealthy Americans.

However, many believe that in practice the concept is a myth and rarely works. An EPQ project with an angle of “The Myth of Trickle-Down Economics” could be seriously interesting. Read more about trickle-down economics  here.

10. The effect trade tariffs have on associated countries

Trade tariffs and their place in the global economy is unknown to many people. So, an EPQ educating people on what they are and the effects they have could be really useful. Take a look at some of the questions you could address below:

• What are trade tariffs?
• Do trade tariffs benefit countries equally?
• Why is there so much controversy surrounding trade tariffs?

11. Does the UK have the financial ability to accommodate more immigrants? 12. How may a consumer’s preferences affect their decision to purchase a product? 13. How have monetary and fiscal policies changed in recent years? 14. What is the role of the financial markets in a world of uncertainty? 15. How helpful are SWOT and PESTLE analysis in the economic world? 16. Why might an economy experience disequilibrium? 17. How can Marx’s theories be applied to today’s economies? 18. The future of economics regarding artificial intelligence and modern technology. 19. How did Brexit affect the EU economies? 20. The influence of behavioural economics on globalisation. 21. Can environmental economics solve the problem of climate change? 22. What does the future look like for emerging economies? 23. What is the difference between economics and finance? 24. The economic theory surrounding diamonds and water and how it is applied. 25. What is the impact that demand and supply have on pricing during an economic crisis? 26. Is perfect competition ever possible? 27. Are the world’s wealthy economies built on debts? 28. How do unemployment rates affect the economy? 29. How will the decline of high street stores impact the economy? 30. How petrol and diesel prices fluctuate over time and how these prices mirror real-world events. 31. What are the chances of another global recession? 32. The contribution of higher education towards the economy. 33. How can countries maintain a balance of trade in a crisis? 34. Does the government properly manage fiscal policy? 35. How does a country control its consumer spending? 36. Why can economics often fail to account for the value of housing? 37. Why are most countries moving towards a free-market economy? 38. How can irrational consumer behaviours damage an economy? 39. Economics as a social science. 40. How do economies successfully allocate and utilise scarce resources? 41. The relationship between marginal benefit and supply and demand. 42. How do economies account for surplus amounts of supply? 43. How and why does a market fail? 44. The effects of income and prices on consumption choices. 45. How to effectively benefit from economies of scale. 46. The consequences of exiting a market. 47. Is the policy regarding monopolies strict enough? 48. The impact of a trade union on employment. 49. What are the factors that shift the demand for labour? 50. How has economics been affected by the change in our lifestyles? 51. The many misconceptions surrounding the gender pay gap. 52. The impact that a 35-hour working week has on an economy. 53. How can cartels manipulate oil and gas prices? 54. Is the high street really dying or just evolving? 55. Can the high street bounce back from the recent downturn in revenue? 56. Which factors contribute to a high unemployment rate? 57. The importance of coffee price fluctuations over time. 58. What is the fairest income tax system? 59. Would a flat tax rate aid the economy more than a progressive tax rate? 60. Which factors determine house pricing? 61. 11. What causes inflation? 62. What are the effects of having a high minimum wage? 63. Are the European economies too reliant on each other? 64. What affect did WW2 have on the economies of the world? 65. Why do socialist economies always fail? 66. How has the global demand for oil changed over time? 67. The pros and cons of a privatised health care system 68. Why does capitalism cause monopoly’s? 69. How can people get out of the poverty trap? 70. Why wealth inequality is not as big of an issue as people think

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To English

1. how to have an effective debate.

The ability to have debates is an important skill, and can be applied to many different jobs and scenarios. It is essentially the ability to form rational, fact-based, well-structured arguments, and be able to understand and respond to the counter-arguments in a reasonable, effective way.

This is a great English EPQ idea because it is not only focused on language skills, but also has a wonderful range of applications, which can be used in your life in the future.

In order to start this project, you may want to consider looking at a broad book which details some debating techniques, such as  this book , which gives a wide range of information about debating.

2. What impact did literature have during WW2?

Literature has always been a tool that has been used to record experiences, as well as to aid people in getting through difficult times. You therefore may want to consider doing some research about the type of literature that was produced during World War 2, and the impact that it had on people at the time.

You could consider discussing:

• How much literature actually was published in the war years?
• Who were the most influential writers?
• How did the literature written impact the people during the war?
• How has the literature continued to affect people since the war?

3. Are girls better at English than boys?

The gender differences that are of aren’t present with certain skills or subjects can be really interesting to explore. In terms of relation to English, you can explore the differences between girls and boys in their general abilities in the subject, and either confirm or challenge the stereotypes.

Subjects such as these give you the opportunity to really debate whether or not there is a difference, and the reasons why or why not this is true.

You could start by looking at some existing arguments alongside academic research around these subjects.

• ‘Gender differences in Girls and Boys Brains appear Biological’
• ‘Sex differences in early communication development’

4. Should English literature be optional at secondary school?

As you know from doing your GCSEs, you don’t technically have to pass English Literature (its English Language that is the core subject). So, should all GCSE students be forced to study English Literature?

This idea would give you the opportunity to express your opinion in a structured, evidence-based way, and would be a great way to show off your English abilities in terms of debating skills.

• What are the benefits of teaching English Literature to all students?
• How could the time spent teaching English Literature to students be used if students did not have to engage in the subject? Would there be benefits to this?

5. How did literature change in the 1800s?

Looking at the development of literature over the years is a really interesting route to go down for your EPQ. The 19th century was an era of change for a number of reasons, and obviously this had a huge impact on the literature at the time.

There were major changes in general opinions and outlooks about the world due to new scientific research and publications. Theories such as Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution brought into question general, well-established views of the world, and this was reflected in the literature of the time.

For this project idea, you may want to follow a love of reading, and evaluate specific books of the time, comparing them to literature before the 1800s. You could also have a look at books which provide a summary of the societal changes in the 1800s and their causes.  My recommendation can be found here.

6. Why is mass media so biased?

Bias in the media is another societal issue which would be interesting to discuss in your project. English and journalism are very linked, and you may want to consider looking at:

• The reasons for bias in the media
• How bias in the media is represented – what kind of language techniques are used?
• How can bias in the media be combatted?
• What are some examples of biased media?

7. What techniques do writers use to make the reader agree with a particular opinion?

English techniques can be incredibly persuasive, and the use of specific techniques can be a really interesting area to consider for an EPQ project. There are a variety of ways which you could approach this subject, and this is one of the things that makes this a great choice.

This is an idea which could not only enable you to recognise and understand the techniques that writers use, but it can also help you to improve your writing, and persuasive skills.

There is some literature about this subject already, and an example of a  useful book can be found here . You could also consider analysing specific speeches and pieces of literature which have had impact in the world.

8. To what extent are journalists at risk of being replaced by computers?

The takeover of jobs by computers is a concern for many people, and so it is interesting to consider what makes a job something which just a human is capable of doing. Is journalism one of these careers? What are the reasons for your judgement?

You may want to look at subjects which are in the news currently, and some examples of these news pages can be found here:

• Microsoft ‘to replace journalists with robots’

This may lead you to some further information, and could start your consideration of the elements of journalism that could be replaced, as well as the reasons that we need human journalists.

9. Are books becoming obsolete?

Literature has always been an important part of society. It gives people the chance to escape from struggles which they are facing, and also often reflects the context in which it was written. We can look back on literature from certain time periods and gain insight into the experiences and beliefs of people at the time.

However, there are so many forms of media at the moment, and you might be able to argue that literature is starting to lose its impact. Your project could discuss:

• What are books being replaced by?
• What are the reasons for this?
• What impact does this have on society?
• What impact will it have on future generations?

10. What made Shakespeare’s plays so unique?

Shakespeare is arguably the most famous English writer in history, and you will have certainly come across his work in school, and heard about Shakespeare in general society. But what made Shakespeare so influential? What was unique about his writing?

You can look at the works produced by Shakespeare in order to discuss his plays, and identifying the unique elements yourself is something that will make your EPQ a very strong essay. You can find a  book of Shakespeare’s complete works here .

You can also find books which show you the analysis skills which you will need to evaluate Shakespeare’s work,  such as this one here . You may want to use these as a starting point for your project.

11. How did Shakespeare present the effect of tragic madness in Hamlet? 12. How has creative writing changed throughout the course of history? 13. Will technology influence the originality of creative writing? 14. Why are the best books in history being turned into films and do the films live up to the books? 15. How do literary techniques affect the reader’s perspective? 16. How Jane Austin used her novels to address feminism and its effect at the time. 17. To what extent has literature addressed mental illness in the 20th century? 18. How has the perception of love and relationships changed in English novels over the last century? 19. Is poetry the same as it was 100 years ago? 20. Is the use of narrators becoming outdated? 21. How did the English language evolve and is it still evolving? 22. Will Shakespeare’s work stop be being taught due to a lack of understanding? 23. Is “text speak” undermining the English language? 24. Do the common abbreviations we use today actually make sense? 25. Should English teachers take on a more practical approach? 26. Is knowing how to spell important anymore with spell check to do it for you? 27. Do English teachers properly prepare students for university exams? 28. The importance of authentic English. 29. What are the most effective ways to teach young people the correct vocabulary? 30. The role of language teaching for dyslexia students, does it work? 31. Why general English is not enough for employability?. 32. How do you tailor English skills for specific jobs? 33. Does the ability to communicate effectively impact confidence? 34. Can gaming support language learning? 35. The importance of grammar in modern language. 36. Should English be considered an art or an academic skill? 37. Do different motivations change how students learn English? 38. Does homeschooling affect the ability to learn English properly? 39. Why is learning English so different from learning other subjects? 40. Can English minimise cross-cultural communication challenges? 41. Why has English grammar always changed? 42. Does the type of language we use influence the way we think? 43. What does the future of the English language look like? 44. Is the way we analyse literature outdated? 45. Why is English so widely spoken? 46. Why has the representation of masculinity not changed in the English language? 47. Why are more neologisms used today? 48. How has our pronunciation changed? 49. How Greek mythology is portrayed in English novels. 50. How is argumentative writing taught in schools? 51. What effect does illiteracy have on a person’s career? 52. How does literacy rate affect the development of a country? 53. What are the most accurate methods to determine someone’s reading age? 54. How does dyslexia affect a child’s ability to learn how to read and write? 55. Is it right for GCSE and A-Level English exams to be timed? 56. Is the demand for English graduates increasing or decreasing? 57. The rise of gothic literature. 58. What effect has the internet had on journalism? 59. To what extent do the writing styles of men and women differ? 60. Are native English speakers advantaged over others? 61. How have gender roles changed in novels over time? 62. Evaluating the political agenda behind many poems 63. How was religion portrayed in 20th century British novels? 64. Evaluating the importance of symbolism in literature 65. What contributions did Shakespeare make to literature? 66. Did Shakespeare actually write the plays he’s famous for? 67. How have attitudes towards literature changed over time? 68. How has our use of language changed since the development of the internet? 69. How does literature affect culture? 70. The origins of punctuation and why it was needed

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Business Studies

1. how should market monopolies be addressed.

A market monopoly is commonly known to occur when a single company or a cluster of companies have an extremely high percentage of a share of the market. Market monopolies are bad for many reasons; some are listed below:

• Monopoly-driven markets often have higher prices than markets driven by competition.
• Monopolies can gain too much power over a democracy if the nation is small enough, or the company is big enough.
• If a company has a monopoly, increased efficiency is not incentivised, therefore, innovation can be less.

If you want more advantages and disadvantages of market monopolies,  take a look here.

2. How can the UK government incentivise entrepreneurship?

High levels of entrepreneurship would be a great thing for the UK government. After all, the more people who wish to start their own businesses, the more businesses there will be. More businesses will always lead to more jobs, which is a good thing for everyone.

So, if everyone wants more entrepreneurship, how can we incentivise it in our society effectively? This is the question you should aim to answer if you take on this EPQ project idea. There are many different avenues you can take with this idea, ranging from government grants to decreased taxation.

What you will find during your EPQ is that for every incentivisation that effectively leads to increased levels of entrepreneurship, there will be plenty of drawbacks. For example, decreased taxation very well may increase the number of start-ups incorporated, but short-term, may lead to lesser government revenues.

3. How much do taxes hurt small business owners?

When people think of taxes, they usually let their minds sway towards their personal income tax. However, income taxes are not the only tax and small business owners most definitely know it. Below, I have listed some of the other taxes that business owners have to worry about:

• Corporation Tax
• National Insurance
• Value Added Tax (VAT)

Many small business owners, especially in the retail and hospitality sectors, have razor thin margins already and taxes can often push them to their budgeting limits. This can sometimes lead to closures and shutdowns, which over the course of a medium to long term period, can have the reverse effect of the government collecting less in taxes. This leads to the question of is it really worth having all of these taxes?

To understand more information on taxes that business owners are subject to, I recommend that you  take a look at this book on Amazon.co.uk.

4. Should the corporate tax be lowered?

Corporate tax has been the central point of many arguments over the decades. Lots of business owners and some policymakers feel as though it punishes companies that have finally made a profit. Making a profit can be a yearlong venture for many companies and some argue that when they finally cross the threshold of sustainability, they should be rewarded, not punished.

If the corporation tax was lowered, would the economy gain from the move or would the government not only receive less tax revenues in the short term, but also the long term? This a great question that you could discuss during your EPQ.

5. What factors have influenced marketing and how?

Marketing has been significantly influenced by the growth of the online sector. However, marketing has changed in many other ways than just the move to online. In your EPQ, you could discuss either the online transition or the many other ways marketing has changed.

Before starting an EPQ project of this nature, I would recommend take a look at some marketing-themed books, that instruct businesses on how to market their products  (example here).  This will give you a good idea of what methods companies are using today.

6. The psychology behind advertising

One such way marketing has changed has been related to the increased understanding of human psychology. “Psychological tricks” are often used in marketing campaigns. This has led to many people questioning whether the use of these “tricks” have led to consumers not having a true fair choice when deciding on a purchase.

If you want to know more about the relationship between psychology and corporate marketing,  take a look at this book.

7. What creates a good business leader?

Everyone can think of a least one business leader they have heard of, whether it be Steve Jobs, Elon Musk or any one of the thousand others. Business leaders are required to possess extraordinary organisation and communication skills. Although there are some pretty standard traits of successful business leaders, they are all very different.

Due to this, a study into what characteristics lead to the absolute best business leaders would really interesting. Below are some characteristics that have been rumoured to be effective at predicating a good business leader:

• Charismatic

Although you should not take it as fact,  this book  will get you thinking about the characteristics of a business leader.

8. What factors motivate employees and how?

Working for someone else is often seen as a bad thing, but it doesn’t have to be. What can a business do in order for it to motivate its employees to not only be happier in their line of work but also be more productive.

Some business owners have gone down the route of offering shares in the company to their employees. This leads to the employee feeling a significantly more direct impact of their work as they themselves directly benefit from the company performing well.

Below, I have listed some techniques business owners have attempted. Each one is linked to a resource where you can learn more about the particular case study.

• Offering shares to employees.
• Implementing a minimum salary, above the minimum wage.
• Making offices super nice!

9. What is a fair salary for a CEO?

CEOs work very hard in a lot of cases. In return, they are usually paid the big bucks. However, many people have the opinion that CEOs pay is not proportional to the amount of work they do. Why not express your views on this topic within your EPQ Project? You could discuss one set of views and then directly contrast it to other people’s views who do not agree with you.

Ensure that for every opinion that you discuss, you provide subsequent evidence – ideally with references. To find more information about what a CEO’s job entails,  take a look at this article.

10. To what extent has mobile technology changed advertising?

Mobile phones have taken over the technology market and advertising has adjusted to the new audience. How has it changed and in what ways will it continue to change over the coming years? There is lots to discuss on this idea and I’m certain it would make for a great project.

11. The effect of refinancing a business. 12. Why would a business want to diversify into a new market? 13. What are the complications of globalisation for a well-known business? 14. What is the impact of the decline in high street stores for larger corporations? 15. How does operational performance affect a business’s share price? 16. Is Amazon the reason for the decline in high street stores? 17. The importance of creativity within a business. 18. The value of becoming a private limited company. 19. Is a business’s life cycle set in stone? 20. Does organisational structure affect the internal performance of a business? 21. Should corporate social responsibility be adopted by all businesses? 22. The ways to control a business’s supply chain. 23. What are the stages of decision making within large corporations? 24. Do shareholders put too much pressure on businesses for dividends? 25. Does an increase in autonomy improve performance of employees? 26. How do businesses decide on their sources of finance? 27. How to evaluate the risk involved with new ventures. 28. How does politics intervene in the business world? 29. How do businesses use big data within marketing? 30. The important elements within entrepreneurship that lead to success. 31. How is project management run? 32. How does organisational culture differ in the largest businesses in the world? 33. The relationship between accounting and business. 34. The legal and ethical considerations that need to be made when operating in other countries. 35. The role of research and development for a company. 36. How the leaders and managers of a business influence the attitude of the entire organisation. 37. Which methods classify as sustainable manufacturing? 38. Is constant innovation needed to compete in a sector? 39. How do businesses change their strategies? 40. The value of planning and control within a business. 41. How to properly analyse a market. 42. How economics impacts business activities. 43. How to build good relationships with consumers. 44. How to improve product quality. 45. How to manage intellectual property within a business. 46. What are the processes within the administration of a company? 47. How helpful are business models for managers? 48. Should business studies be taught in all schools? 49. What are the attitudes of a successful entrepreneur? 50. How important is stock control? 51. How much should a company pay its employees? 52. How has the airline industry developed over time? 53. How has automation affected the world’s economies? 54. To what extent is Spotify’s business model sustainable? 55. How does VAT affect UK businesses? 56. Do big international companies pay their fair share in taxes? 57. How are successful start-ups formed? 58. What is the real impact of a strike on a business? 59. The ethical problems surrounding a business outsourcing their work. 60. Are the government incentivising start-ups enough? 61. Has the music industry been hurt by the rise of the internet? 62. How and why do business adapt their marketing strategies? 63. How can companies tackle the issue of climate change? 64. Evaluating the case for a single global currency 65. How apple became the tech giant it is today 66. The value of apprenticeships for employers and employees 67. How does a business change when transitioning from private to public? 68. Why is amazon protected from current monopoly laws? 69. How can oligopolies result in market collusion? 70. How to make an effective logo for your business

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Ethics

1. the complicated ethics surrounding self-driving cars.

Self-driving cars raise a variety of ethical issues, and this is a really interesting issue that is currently relevant, and would therefore be very interesting to discuss in an EPQ.

This is because situations arise where drivers are required to make choices about who to protect in terms of traffic accidents. For example, should self-driving cars prioritise their passengers or pedestrians?

These issues require great consideration, and from an ethical standpoint, they can be discussed in a broad way. This is great for an EPQ, and you may choose to make your discussion more specific (i.e. you could focus on one specific ethical issue that arises from the use and development of self-driving cars).

2. Should we experiment on embryo’s for medical research?

This is an enormous area of debate, which has many different viewpoints, which are influenced by a number of different factors. This idea can give you the chance to voice your own view, and reflect on how different elements have shaped your opinion on the topic.

You can consider a variety of different viewpoints, as well as the things that influence them, perhaps making use of recent news articles. The things that you may think about which have an impact on views on this issue could include:

• Whether you believe the benefits of this kind of research are worth the costs – do you have examples of where they are or aren’t?
• When you think embryos should be considered as human lives
• What other alternatives to this research are there?
• How does religion and other cultural/upbringing factors affect these views?

3. What determines someone’s inner moral compass?

How can you define a person’s moral compass? It is an ambiguous concept which can be defined in various ways, and has lots of potential influences. But what what is it? And what makes a persons moral compass good or bad?

You may want to consider how the idea of a moral compass has changed over time, and what this means for peoples behaviour.  A good place to start could be here  – this book should give you an overview of the history of morals.

4. Should the death penalty be brought back?

The death penalty has been a seemingly common punishment for crime in the past, but should its use have been removed? Is it’s use in other countries ethical? This idea is a great way to bring together a love for history as well as an interest in History. You could start your research by finding out more about the death penalty –  this book may be useful for that .

You could discuss:

• Is the death penalty fair for those accused of murder?
• How do you eliminate the problems of false convictions?
• What problems and benefits are there with bringing back the death penalty?
• Is it moral to kill even in response to a crime?

5. Should euthanasia be allowed in the UK?

Euthanasia is something which has been a controversial issue in the UK for a very long time. Should people have the choice to die? This is something that is a great ethical dilemma for a variety of reasons. You may want to consider discussing:

• The alternative help available for those who want to be euthanised
• What circumstances euthanasia should be allowed in
• What the moral issues euthanasia raises
• Does the fact that it is not allowed in the UK now mean that people don’t get euthanised? Or does it just mean that it is not fairly available?

6. How moral is intense animal farming?

Animal rights and whether animal farming is ethical is a hugely controversial, and easily debatable subject at the moment. There are many resources out there from animal rights organisations about the brutality and potential lack of morality surrounding animal farming.

You can use this available information to evaluate pre-existing views on the topic – perhaps a good book to start off your evaluation of this subject could be  ‘The end of animal farming..’ which can be found here .

This book   may also be a good starting point for a discussion-based project on the topic of the ethics of animal farming. This could make for a great EPQ, and your interpretation of evidence and conclusion would be really valuable.

7. Are society’s perceptions of what’s right and wrong based on Christianity?

Religion and its role in society is a really interesting topic to consider. Whatever religion you follow (or even if you don’t follow a religion), the impact of particular religions on what are considered to be basic, widely-held beliefs is something that is really great to discuss – perhaps more of your cultural upbringing has been influenced by religion than you thought!

There are already publications around this subject,  such as this book  which I would recommend to start your consideration of this subject. However, it is important that you approach this subject in a very analytical and evaluative way, as much of the literature in this area is likely to have a bias – identifying these limitations in your EPQ is also certainly a skill which you want to showcase!

8. Is it ethical to raise a child in a purely religious environment?

Religion and upbringing is also another really interesting relationship to explore. Religious beliefs tend to run in families – but should this be the case?

There are a variety of different ways that you could approach this question, though you may want to consider the following ideas in order to come to a judgement:

• Should children have a choice in the religion which they are following?
• From what age are children able to make this choice?
• Is stopping parents from making religion a big part of their children’s lives going against their religion and therefore a violation of their freewill?
• At what point does the amount of religion in a child’s environment too much?

9. Should we impose measures to control the global population?

The population has been growing and growing over the years, and is continuing to do so.  The world population is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050.  But what does this mean for us now? Are there actions which we should take to prevent a huge spike in the number of people in the global population?

For your EPQ, you may want to consider:

• The reasons for controls – is it ethical to let the population grow that much?
• Previous impositions of population control and the related ethical issues – were they successful? You could take a look at the one child policy in China (1979-2016), and  this book  may be an interesting, related read for you to start with .

10. How should we distribute the wealth that has been created by machines?

Machines taking over jobs is a concern for many, and perhaps this is partly because companies could make a lot more profit using machines which they don’t have to pay to carry out tasks which they would otherwise have to employ an individual to do.

However, the increasing use of machines in workplaces and other areas raises the question of where the money which has been essentially generated by machines should end up? Surely it is not ethical to simply give all of the money earned to big tech companies, and the companies who use their machines? Is there a way to distribute the wealth produced in a fair way which would be beneficial to society?

This is a very modern issue which presents new ethical issues, and is therefore incredibly interesting to discuss in your EPQ – your take on these issues (if presented in an effective way) could be your way to an A*.

11. How can the government stop criminals benefiting from natural disasters? 12. Should all animal testing be banned? 13. Does the government need to stop the production of plastic? 14. Are psychological research methods ethical? 15. Should prenatal scans be allowed? 16. Is the way we farm animals moral? 17. Is the population on its way to becoming vegan? 18. How is fast fashion affecting the climate? 19. Why does overfishing still occur? 20. Should we only be allowed to buy fruit and vegetables that are in season? 21. Is the tax system in the UK ethical? 22. Should the promise of patient confidentiality be trusted? 23. What are the different ways to consent? 24. Should women who incorrectly accuse men of rape be severely prosecuted? 25. Is it morally right to kill an embryo? 26. Charities and how they are not always ethical. 27. Why has lying become so common? 28. Why does torture still occur in the world? 29. The ethics surrounding war. 30. Why is slavery still going on? 31. Forced marriages and their impact on young women. 32. Is the idea of capitalism unethical? 33. Why does fraud occur so often? 34. Are people born racist or do they become racist? 35. How can we accept the LGBT community? 36. Is privacy online important? 37. Should we give AI the right to kill? 38. Should we create synthetic lifeforms? 39. Is it right to colonise other planets? 40. At what point do we start population control? 41. Is science destroying the planet? 42. The issues involved with organ transplants. 43. Should everyone receive free healthcare? 44. Should social media be banned? 45. Why are care homes run so poorly? 46. The impact of mental disorders on younger generations. 47. Are IVF treatments ethical? 48. What are the ethical implications involved with neuroscience? 49. The ethical issues surrounding hormone therapy. 50. Should we screen for genetic diseases in all cases? 51. Is it ethical to invest money in space exploration considering the state of our planet? 52. Do care homes provide adequate care to dementia patients? 53. Are homeless people to blame for their situation? 54. Should everyone receive a universal income for absolute necessities? 55. Is the use of corporate jargon ethical? 56. How many immigrants should wealthy countries accept? 57. Should immigrants have a right to claim benefits within the UK? 58. What is the ethical minimum wage? 59. The ethics surrounding employees stealing company time. 60. Is it unethical for countries to possess nuclear weapons? 61. How can we be sure to eradicate AI bias? 62. Is it right for humans to ever control AI? 63. Should we be allowed to edit our child’s genes before birth? 64. Do we have the right to terraform other planets? 65. Should we always respect a patient’s choice (even if it’s wrong)? 66. Should we introduce non-human DNA into our genome? 67. Should people be forced to die if ageing is ever cured? 68. At what point does an embryo or foetus become a human life? 69. Do embryos have rights? 70. Can only humans have rights?

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Foreign Languages

1. why do people speaking foreign languages sound like they are speaking fast.

If you have an interest in languages, you may have found that when you listen to other people speaking in a language which is not your native language seem to be speaking very fast! Perhaps you have wondered if this is something which is universal for everyone learning second languages, or whether it is just that certain languages are spoken more quickly than others.

You can look at some research to answer this question, and  this piece of research may be a good place to get you started .

This is a great idea for an EPQ, as it will be research based but also gives the opportunity for discussion.

2. What is the hardest language to learn?

The perception of the hardest language to learn is something which is very subjective and dependent on a number of different factors. You could consider this in terms of these factors. For example, you may want to narrow down your project by looking at:

• The hardest language for people from a specific country to learn
• The most complex language to learn in terms of grammatical and other skills
• The most difficult pronunciation
• The most and least spoken languages and their perceived difficulties

3. Do children learn particular languages faster?

This is a really interesting area to research. The idea that children learn languages quicker is widely accepted, but is this true for every language? Which languages are easier for children to learn overall?

You may want to consider discussing the things that can have an impact on a child’s ability to learn a language, including:

• Whether their parents speak the language
• How they learn the language (through books, tv, school etc)
• When they learn the language

These are all important factors to consider, and could lead to a more knowledgeable approach to teaching children second languages.

4. How much easier is it for children to learn a foreign language compared to an adult?

There is a generally widely-accepted view that children can learn languages more easily than adults. But to what extent is this true? There is a wide range of research done in this area, and it can lead to some interesting discussions about:

• What age is the best to introduce a second language to a child?
• Should all children be taught second languages?
• What are the best methods for teaching a second language to students?

This is an area where (if you were interested), you could put forward evidence-based views around the applications of the idea that languages are more easily learned by children.

5. Should everyone be forced to learn a foreign language at school?

This is another issue related to language and children. If the best time to learn a language is when you are a child, but many parents don’t speak more than 1 language, is it essential that children are taught languages from a young age? If so:

• What language should be taught as a compulsory subject?
• Between which ages should a language be taught to children?
• How should language abilities be applied in the rest of school life?
• How should the languages be taught?

The use and teaching of language in schools is another real debate topic, and gives you the chance to show off your debating skills and ability to interpret evidence to form an opinion. These are great skills to showcase for your EPQ.

6. Is Latin dead?

Latin is a classic language, which is not seen in modern society. However, it is still relevant. You may want to discuss a range of topics in an EPQ on this subject area. For example, you could consider:

• What are the benefits of learning Latin?
• Can knowledge of Latin make learning other languages easier?
• How has Latin influenced the languages which we speak today?

You could use the information you find on these topics to evaluate the status of Latin, and whether or not it should be considered to be a ‘dead’ language.

7. What makes French the world’s most romantic language?

French is widely recognised or considered as an incredibly romantic language. But was has led to this belief? Is it the way that the language sounds? Is it the culture found in France? Is it the landscape or the buildings (i.e. the physical environment)? Do French people find the language ‘romantic’?

If you are interested in language, doing a project about the preconceptions about a language such as French is a great way to go with your EPQ. You could consider discussing what makes the language ‘romantic’, as well as whether or not some of these specific elements are found in other languages.

8. How has English affected the German language?

The interaction between languages, and the influences that they have on each other is something that will give you the chance to look at a variety of different elements which would be very interesting to discuss in your project.

You could research the relationship between any 2 languages, and the things that you may want to consider include:

• The similarities between English and German
• The differences between English and German (you may want to look at  this book about English and German grammar )
• The reasons for similarities/differences – where are the languages derived from? Has there been any interaction between the formation of them?

9. Why is the internet dominated by the English language?

Around 20% of the world speak English , so why is it so commonly seen in media, such as on the internet? The domination of English as a language across the world is something that is incredibly interesting, especially as the number of English speakers is actually a lot lower than you would perhaps expect.

This is a great idea for an EPQ, because it gives you the chance to look at the prevalence of the English language, and how it’s used in the Inernet. You may want to consider:

• How the broad use of the English Language has affected the number of native English speakers who are bilingual.
• What language is the most commonly used across the world? Why is this?
• What has made media in English so highly available?

10. Why Google Translate doesn’t work sometimes

Google Translate is notorious for not working properly, and this is something that every language teacher warns their students to be wary of. But why does Google Translate not work?

There are so many different elements which go into speaking a language effectively, and these are things that you would be able to discuss in your essay.

• Differences in grammatical techniques
• Differences in meanings of particular words (or dual meanings)
• The context of sentences and its importance in terms of meaning

One of the great things about this subject is that you can apply it to any language, and therefore it can be relevant to both your A-Levels and perhaps even the degree which you would like to do.

11. What is the best way to learn a second language? 12. Should all parents aim to teach their children another language? 13. How useful is mandarin within the business world? 14. What are the psychological barriers to learning a new language? 15. Does listening to foreign music and films help with pronunciation? 16. How does language learning differ in other countries? 17. What are the benefits of being bilingual? 18. What language was Jesus believed to speak and is at all similar to modern-day language? 19. How helpful are language learning apps in becoming fluent in another language? 20. Should language teachers take on a more practical approach? 21. How have different dialects of the same language evolved? 22. What are the most similar languages to one another? 23. How does a language portray its origin country’s culture? 24. Is there a certain pattern for learning a language? 25. Does the way you learn a language effect your pronunciation? 26. Why does the German language seem aggressive and was it always that way? 27. Do teachers only teach ways to pass the exam and not learn languages in detail? 28. Are language examinations fair? 29. To what extent does it take intelligence or a good memory to learn a foreign language? 30. How has language learning changed throughout history? 31. Is it important to understand the culture of a language? 32. How accents can affect understanding dramatically. 33. How is motivation built to learn a second language? 34. How can you forget a language you were once fluent in? 35. Why is it so common to get anxiety when learning a new language? 36. What is the most common language found in music? 37. How difficult is it to learn sign language for a deaf person? 38. What are the origins of the English language? 39. The complications surrounding the Arabic language. 40. How do dyslexic people manage language learning? 41. Why do people still learn and use Latin, what is its value in modern society? 42. Are programming languages considered just as hard to learn as verbal languages? 43. Has “text talk” ruined the complexity of people’s vocabulary? 44. What is the best age to learn a new language? 45. Is it easier to learn a third language once you have already learnt two? 46. How difficult is language reading compared to speaking and listening? 47. How does grammar change with different languages? 48. The importance of cross-language communication. 49. Does language learning help bridge the intellectual inequality gap? 50. How do people pick up accents? 51. Why does the English language not have clear masculine and feminine classifications? 52. How do certain words evolve into insulting words over time? 53. How different are alphabets between languages? 54. What is the official process followed when adding words to a language? 55. What is the field of Mathematics dominated by the Greek language? 56. What was the first verbal language humans spoke? 57. Why has Latin become somewhat obsolete? 58. The origins of the Arabic language. 59. How strict are punctuation rules across different languages? 60. Which foreign language has the most dialects and why? 61. How has human language evolved over time? 62. Which world language conveys more information per word? 63. Which type of language conveys more information: verbal or body? 64. Why can some words not be translated between languages? 65. The origins of the Japanese language 66. How English is used in the Japanese media 67. Is it fair to say that china only has only a single language? 68. How have foreign immigrants integrated into Japanese society since WW2? 69. Is Japanese an isolated language or part of a broader language family? 70. Is how people use body language universal across the world?

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Biology

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To History

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Art

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Sport

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Architecture

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Computer Science

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Engineering

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Politics

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Chemistry

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Geography

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Physics

70+ EPQ Ideas Relating To Maths

I’m looking for ideas for an EPQ based on primary school teaching. Any suggestions?

i was wanting to do something using this topic, what did you do in the end? 🙂

To what extent to primary school teachers effect the personal development of children. Or how does the environment created by primary schools affect a child mental and cognitive development

it isn’t a primary school qualification

Should boys receive exclusive lessons on feminism in primary school? How can we teach primary school students about internet safety? How can we teach primary school students about their rights over their own bodies? Is the way we teach obesity in school harmful to overweight or obese children? Is the Education system indoctrinating students? The importance of girls in primary school having role models in STEM. Why banning mobile phones in school does more harm than good. Why our education system fails to pick up students with dyspraxia. Why we should allow students to move around the classroom as they …  Read more »

Do primary teachers have an impact on people’s morals even when they become adults?

Is primary school teaching restricting Young children?

I was thinking a maths and gambling based epq. Any suggestions?

theory of probability in casinos?

Would an essay about disabled rights be good idea for EPQ

I think that is a great topic to construct your EPQ about. Just ensure that you have enough to say about this topic.

anyone got any suggestions for a drama/theatre related artefact based EPQ????

shakespeares use of masquerade in his plays – like in romeo and juliet and linking it to the era it came from and its links to italy as well

write, direct and perform in a play- could be a parody of a Shakespeare play?- for mythology do a modern version of a classic myth?- link to a topic you are interested in

Any ideas on a travel based EPQ

maybe look at the impact of tourism on low income countries or CO2 emissions from travel

I live in cornwall and iIO what about how will covid 19 aefffect the tourisum industry (please ignore my spelling by back button is broke)

Do you go to Callywith (only school i know doing EPQ in Cornwall lol) ? Also have you decided on an EPQ yet because I have no idea

I’m struggling to think of a good EPQ question based on health care, the NHS or paramedics. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thankyou!

How the nhs negatively affected the uks economy, could the uk survive without the nhs, is the pay of nhs workers fair, how did COVID 19 effected the nhs and especially the workers, should the uk follow in the steps of other countries and have privatised health care, the history of the nhs and how it impacted the uk, will the nhs be around forever or will it collapse? Literally so many you can do with the nhs although I may have to combine different aspects to get enough content to write about, good luck !!!

hi im struggling to find an epq that would be linked to a diplomat career with international relations or law any help would be appreciated

should countries be allowed to sue each other

hello friends, im from portugal and would like a topic for my IPQ that relates to wine, does anyone got any ideas ?

hi everyone, i’m thinking of doing an epq based on interpretations of love and love languages, can anyone come up with a question for that? or would that not be a good route to take?

doing A-Level EPQ at sixth form and I do not know what to do for my EPQ and I don’t have a question. I have to link it to Religious Education as it is a catholic school. Do you have any recommendations. thanks

should RE be compulsory in school.

yikes I go to a catholic school and we don’t have to do that… should the uk be a secular society / is the world losing faith / can war be ethical / religious/ethical duty to protect the environment

Why are people so obsessed with religion, even to the point of killing and being killed for it, and is this obsession healthy?

I’m looking at medicine for Uni, do you think an EPQ about “can you die from a broken heart” is any good?

Looking for EPQ ideas in relation to the Armed Forces!! Any suggestions welcome, thanks

(^^)/ What about history of armed forces?

looking for an epq linking Applied science and Psychology together. Any ideas????

Hey what topic did u end up doing I’m interested in those 2 subjects too x

Hi! I’m looking to do an EPQ about genetics. Any ideas?

Hey everyone, I was thinking to do an EPQ based on the e-commerce. Any suggestions about it?

I’m struggling to think of any decent EPQ topics regarding music. Anyone got any ideas? 🙂

does music have an impact on the brain? does listening to music whilst revising help? is music a form of art? is music a form of therapy? why do people find comfort in music?

can I do Can physics prove evolution or any of the physics ideas if I already do physics a level or are they too similar?

any ideas on a media epq

Ideas for food based epq ideas that include making an artefact

are synthetic/man-made chemicals used for food processing and packaging, ethical ?

Hey I need to decide on my topic for my EPQ and I have 4 that I can’t choose between: To what extent will future development of genome sequencing and synthetic life impact the field of AI?

Could humanity ever achieve biological immortality?

What are the conditions required on a planet for intelligent life to evolve?

What if Pangea never broke apart?

Favourites?

I love the first two! im also thinking to do one something linked with computer science or biology/biomed

I’m interested in doing an epq to do with criminology does anyone have any suggestions for questions/topics?

im looking for an epq to do with maths and comp sci, any suggestions?

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How to Approach EPQ Research (EPQ Advice #3)

Thursday 25 july 2024, applicant, sponsored articles ucas media service, three reasons you should attend a ucas exhibition, make the most of your open day, do you need to take an english test to study at university in the uk.

• About Chris Rand

How to get a 100%, A* EPQ mark – some tips

• 20 August 2019 27 June 2024

My son did his Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in 2018, at Hills Road Sixth Form College, Cambridge, and it was really interesting to watch. For something worth just half an A-level (and in reality when it comes to university applications, worth nothing), it required an astonishing amount of work. For busy sixth-formers to find the time or the motivation requires some dedication. That said, the EPQ is a good introduction to doing a properly planned and structured research project, so I encouraged my son to take the trouble. He did so, and his project was eventually marked 100% (A*) in 2019.

My best advice is to reverse-engineer the whole exercise. Remember, the EPQ is not about your project itself, but about the process of planning and executing it. So get the detailed marking scheme from the exam board’s website, and painstakingly go through every single item, noting what needs to be done to get full marks. Keep this in mind throughout the project.

Show how you’ve developed a range of skills by creating as much supporting material around the project as you can. For example, the core product from my son’s project was always going to be a dissertation. But along the way he also created a blog (to use as the project diary), a video and a podcast. He interviewed real people for comments, created an illustration in Adobe Illustrator and found out how to use Microsoft Excel for a Gantt Chart. All of these gave him new things to learn, and more importantly to write about.

There’s no way around it: if you want to get a really top mark in your EPQ, you’re going to have to devote all the time they suggest, and possibly more. But it can be an interesting experience.

My son’s project was eventually picked up by a campaigning group which I belong to, and published on their website . However, the best place to see the project in full is at the website he created to showcase the work here .

3 thoughts on “How to get a 100%, A* EPQ mark – some tips”

Hi, great tips. I will definitely use these.

I don’t know how I got here, but this was a really interesting read with good insight and advice. Congratulations to your son. My daughter did an EPQ in engineering materials and biomimicry and was very proud of it. Unlike you, I didn’t get to see it! She was a shy worker. So much work and dedication can go into such a project (including travel to attend a conferences, writing to researchers, waiting for replies, etc). She messed up a bit in her A level results, but her EPQ helped get accepted on her course. So in her case it did count. She ended up being a top mark student in her university course.

Really interesting that the EPQ counted for something, Mari. And so pleased your daughter’s hard work paid off!

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EPQs: finding and using evidence

Finding the evidence that will help you understand a topic or answer a question is an important stage in the research process. And once you have found it, you will need to examine it closely and carefully, to judge how reliable it is and whether it is useful to help you answer your question.

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an opportunity for you to work independently on a topic that really interests you or that you think is important. It is equivalent to an A-level qualification. These articles are designed to help you if you are enrolled on an EPQ.

  See previous article in series: Designing your research question

Before working through this article, you should have settled on your research question .

This article will support you through the next steps in the research cycle (Figure 1): collecting evidence (or data) to help you answer your question and starting your analysis of that evidence.  First, let’s look at collecting data.

What is already known about your topic?

The first step in answering a research question is usually to do a ‘literature review’ or ‘research review’.

These articles focus on the ‘research review’ type of EPQ, in which collecting and analysing evidence from what other people have written will be a major part of what you do.

Researchers need to do research reviews for two reasons. First, they want to uncover what is already known. A lot is already known about some topics and they want to be sure that they are researching a novel question. Second, they want to get a balanced view of what is known, rather than jumping in and relying on the first pieces of information they find.

A literature review starts with focused and serious reading, to help you develop your knowledge and understanding of the topic, and begin to gather evidence that will help you answer your question.

Julia , a researcher in AstrobiologyOU, whose research explores the possibilities for habitable environments in the Solar System, demonstrates how she starts a literature review. As you read through, think about the process Julia describes and how you could apply the steps she takes to your EPQ research review.

• Starting a literature review.

When you’re starting a literature review, where do you look for evidence? 

Any literature review requires a well-defined topic. Let’s assume the topic is something in planetary science!

Find an exciting topic: https://solarsystem.nasa.gov provides a good overview of our Solar System.  Let’s pick Mars.

Define a specific question. How did Valles Marineris form? 

Learn about Valles Marineris. You can use Wikipedia as a starting point and look up the references given there.

Use Google Scholar to find specific literature (e.g. search words such as *formation of Valles Marineris*). Look up research cited in the papers you read if they are also relevant to your topic. Make sure you always cite your sources.

My colleague Julia is a research fellow in AstrobiologyOU. She uses computer modelling to understand geological processes on planets such as Venus and Mars. For her, the process of starting a literature review is all about starting broad and gradually narrowing down. So, assuming that the topic is something in planetary science, start with something that gives you an overview. In this case, it’s the whole solar system. Then gradually coming in a step, first of all, focusing on one planet: Mars. Coming down to something on that planet; how did Valles Marineris form? And then having decided on the specific topic, learning more about it, Julia suggests using Wikipedia as a starting point, but looking up references given from it, and then using Google Scholar or other research engines to find specific literature, to look up research, and to find papers that are relevant to your topic.

Comments on Julia’s approach 

You’ll notice that Julia starts from the ‘big picture’ and gradually focuses down to more specific material. This is very similar to the process you followed in article 1 ( Designing your research question ) to move from ‘this is a topic I’m interested in’ to ‘this is the question I want to ask’.

You’ll also notice that Julia moves from a quite open, broad source of evidence (Wikipedia) to using more serious sources (Google Scholar). There’s more on where and how to look for evidence in Section 4.

You will know that Wikipedia, despite having information about hundreds of thousands of topics, is not a 100% reliable source. Wikipedia can be a good place to start your research, get your ideas moving and find places where you can look for more information, but you should always cross-check any information you find there against another source.

Finding keywords.

With so much information available online, how do you begin finding relevant material? Most researchers start by assembling a collection of keywords that relate to the topic and can be used to search for more information. But how do you find those all-important keywords?

In some ways, deciding on your keywords is like the ‘ten words’ activity you used in Article 1 to help you move from topic to question.

• Watch how Devyani creates a mind map
• Ann’s summary

Photo of mind map

But how do you come up with those all-important keywords? Devyani, who is a PhD student in AstrobiologyOU, gave me a few thoughts. As a PhD student, she’s just been through this process herself. 

She suggested looking for key concepts and words in the main topic, perhaps splitting your question up and looking at separate elements of it. So for her, space technologies, sustainable development, SDGs, would be good keywords. Perhaps writing down similar words to the keywords that you've identified, using a thesaurus to help you find alternatives. 

Once you start searching, using things like Google Scholar or the Web of Science, you can use advanced search options such as ‘and’ and ‘or’ functions to help you link topics that you need to look for. 

We’ll come on to different places you can actually do your searches in a couple of minutes.

You might want to try Devyani’s method, or you could try  this quick activity  from The Open University to get started on finding good keywords. 

Going back to the example research question we used in Article 1:  ‘ How did young people use social media for activism?: comparing the content of Instagram posts on #blacklivesmatter and #FridaysForFuture during 2020’

What keywords might you use to search for relevant material to help answer this question?  Perhaps you’d come up with ideas like “social media”, “activism”, “black lives matter”, “Fridays for future”.

As you can see, keywords can sometimes be more than one word!

Searching for evidence.

Having identified your keywords, the next step is to use them to start searching for evidence that will help you answer your research question.

Evidence can come from many sources: books; academic articles (often called ‘papers’); reports from businesses, charities and other organisations; newspaper articles; radio and television; websites; social media … the list could go on!

With so much material out there, it’s helpful to make a plan before you start your search. Think about:

• the keywords you will use
• the most useful places to search
• the time you have available for searching.

Keeping track .

You will gather a lot of information, so you should keep good records. Knowing what you’ve looked for, where you looked and what you found there will help you avoid repeating something you’ve already done. You’ll also be able to fully acknowledge the sources you have used in your research (this will be discussed further in Article 3 ). Make notes of:

• what keywords and combinations of keywords you used (your ‘search terms’)
• where you looked
• what documents you downloaded or read online
• notes you made about what you read.

You could keep a record in a simple table, perhaps on a spreadsheet (you can download  an example here ).

For any documents you find, you’ll also find it useful to keep records of:

• the name of the author(s)
• when it was published
• the title of the article, report, book or chapter
• where it was published – i.e., the title of the journal, book or website
• a link to the document or its DOI (digital object identifier)
• (for books) the name of the publishing company and where it’s based.

The digital object identifier (DOI):  You might not have come across a DOI before. Most academic articles have a DOI – a unique string of numbers and letters that is permanently attached to an article. If you paste a DOI into a browser, it will take you straight to that article. Try this one: https://doi.org/10.14324/RFA.05.2.14

When it comes to writing up your dissertation, these notes can be good evidence in themselves, showing how you carried out your review, so it’s sensible to get your record-keeping method set up before you begin searching.

Where should I search?

It’s very likely that you will carry out your search using online resources. But there are so many to choose from that it can be difficult to know where to start.

• Search engines
• University repositories
• Social media
• Researchers’ websites
• Scholarly databases
• Collections
• Journal websites

You can use the well-known search engines, such as Google, Bing or Yahoo, but you will get more reliable results if you use a specialised search engine such as  Google Scholar , which returns links to articles and academic papers produced by researchers in universities and research institutions.

Many of the papers, articles, newspaper pieces and other items that you will find in your searching – but not all – will be  open access,  which means they are free to view and you can download them. 

Many universities have repositories that store the work of researchers at that university. The Open University’s repository is called  Open Research Online (ORO) . Most UK and international universities have something similar. Universities maintain these repositories because they want to make the work of their researchers available for others to use.

Repositories are often looked after by the university’s library team, so if you can’t find the repository easily, try looking on the library pages on the university website.

Online repositories usually allow you to search by a topic, or by the name of the author if you are trying to get hold of a particular resource.

If you’re interested in the work of a particular research group (such as  AstrobiologyOU ) or a specific researcher, you’ll often find them on social media. Most research groups keep copies of work published by their researchers; it’s always worth contacting them. Explain that you want to use the research for your EPQ.

Researchers often have their own websites ( here’s an example ), which you can find using a search engine. If you can’t get hold of an article that you need for your work, email the researcher. Researchers are often willing to share copies of their work to help other researchers, so explain that you want to use it for your EPQ.

Many researchers keep copies of their papers and articles on networking sites such as  ResearchGate , which also allow you to search by topic. However, these records are kept up to date by the researchers themselves, so you should always check against another source if you can.

Professional databases, such as Web of Science and EBSCO , bring together research from thousands of researchers across the world.

However, you will have to create an account, or pay a subscription to make full use of sites like this, which might not be practical for you.

If you find the researcher on the database but the paper you want isn’t there, use the database’s facilities to contact the researcher. Again, tell them why you want to read the article.

Universities and research institutions are increasingly bringing their resources together into large collections.

CORE  is the world’s largest collection of open access research papers and articles.

ARXIV.org  has more than a million articles, mainly in physics, mathematics and engineering.

Journals are the places where researchers publish the articles that discuss their research. There are many thousands of academic journals in existence, covering every topic imaginable.

For example, try typing the phrase "ecology journal" (complete with speech marks) into a search engine. You will find a long list of possible titles is returned.

On the journals’ websites, you can search by topic to find relevant articles. If you are searching for a specific paper, and know the journal it was published in, you can use the journal’s search function to find it. However, many journals are commercial organisations and keep articles behind a ‘paywall’, meaning they are only available to people or institutions that subscribe to them.

Fortunately, more and more journals (for example PLoS – Public Library of Science ) are fully open access and many journals make some articles freely available.

Print media: If you’re looking for material published in newspapers or magazines, first try the website of the newspaper or search for their digital archive. If you can’t find it online, try your local public library; they often have access to hard-copy archives or can advise you where to find them.

Book publishers:  There are many academic publishers, such as  Ubiquity Press , that produce open access books you can download.

Organisations:  research funders, such as the  Wellcome Trust , make available copies of papers and reports written by their researchers. Other organisations’ websites, such as those from the government or charities, often have copies of project reports or annual reports available.

Public libraries: Finally, don’t forget your local public library. Even if they don't have the exact article or book you’re looking for on the premises, they have trained librarians who can help you find it or suggest alternative routes to get the information you need.

Refining your search.

Even if you use very specific keywords, an online search might return hundreds, if not thousands of results. How can you cut hundreds of results down to a sensible level?

Focusing and refining the keywords you use for your search will help you be realistic, making the best possible use of the limited time you have available for the EPQ, and cutting down your results to an amount that you can realistically deal with.

• Thoughts from Michael

Here are Michael’s key tactics for refining your searches:

• Linking several search terms to narrow down your search.
• Starting broad and then refining – he used a personal example where he started by looking for ‘bacteria associated with plants’ and narrowed down to ‘bacteria associated with peas’.
• Keeping track of your topics and sub-topics with a list, spreadsheet or mind map.
• Remembering you don’t have to read every single resource you find.

My colleague Michael, who’s a microbiologist, is particularly interested in looking at life in extreme environments on Earth that might be similar to places such as Mars. 

He had some useful ideas on how to start refining your searches. He suggests linking search terms, so when searching online you can use symbols such as the plus sign and quotation marks that are incredibly helpful. Typing in ‘this’ plus ‘ that’ will return results that have both of those elements. Conversely, typing ‘this’  minus ‘ that’ will mean you only get results that include the phrase ‘this’. You can use quote marks to make phrases stick together, so quote marks "this stuff" and plus quote marks "that thing", will enable you to find papers that refer to both of those topics. 

Michael also suggested it’s good to start broad and then refine searches. For example, for his PhD, he had to write several chapters for his thesis about bacteria that are associated with plants. The first searches were in the obvious place ‘plant-associated bacteria’, which he then refined to think about specific types of plant, such as ‘pea-associated bacteria’ or ‘legume-associated bacteria’. Those initial searches and papers allowed him to identify other useful terms that then meant he could be even more specific with his searches. For example, searching for ‘nitrogen’ plus ‘ plant-associated bacteria’ or ‘legumes’ minus ‘ disease’.

When searching, he also suggested it’s really helpful to keep track of topics and subtopics with a list, spreadsheet or a mind map. Whatever works for you. He found this helped him keep his notes organised and meant he didn’t have to repeat searches, because he had a record of what he had looked for.

But the most important point, he felt, was not to feel overwhelmed when doing a literature review. It’s possible to turn up hundreds of papers on any topic, but you don’t have to read all of them. As a start, he suggested that you look for review papers. These are papers in which the authors have pulled together material from several other sources. They give a really good introduction and overview of a topic, and can give you some clues on where to look next.

Practising searching using Google Scholar.

Google Scholar is a freely-available search engine that only returns links to scholarly literature, so it’s a good place to practise your searching techniques.

Imagine  that you have decided to research this question:

What are the health benefits of people spending time in nature?

What are the keywords you could use in your search? You might think of:

• health               
• nature therapy              
• green health                 
• forest bathing

Experiment with entering the search terms into Google Scholar . For example, type the words ‘ green health ’ into the search box and press enter. 

Using a simple search term like this can generate a long list of articles. In this example (Figure 10) it was somewhere around five million, which is  far too many for you to review meaningfully!

Combining search terms and using punctuation to keep two or more words together can help you focus your search and return fewer results to look through. Try typing “forest bathing” + health + ”open access” into the search bar:

Quote marks (“…”) keep words together. With quote marks (“forest bathing”) the search will return articles about forest bathing. Without them (forest bathing), you’d get articles on woodland and swimming pools (among other things!).

Using the + symbol combines “ forest bathing”  AND  health.  Adding + “ open access ” means you will only see results where you have free access to the full article.

This cuts down the number of results to around 1600 (Figure 12):

You can then click on the search results to access the articles. Clicking the  top link   brings up an article about forest bathing (at time of writing – the top result may well have changed since then).

To refine your search even further, Google Scholar has filters you can use to tweak your search. For example, if you are only interested in very recent material, you could filter so that only material published after 2021 is shown. This is useful if you want to access material published in a particular time range.

Most search engines or search facilities on repositories, collections or websites have an  advanced search  function that allows you to refine your search to cut down the number of results to something more useful. You can search for material published before or since a specific date, include or exclude specific words, or look for articles by a specific author.

To access advanced search on Google Scholar, click on the menu hamburger in the top left.

What is the right number of resources to include in your EPQ research?

It’s difficult to give an exact number of resources you should aim to use in your EPQ research. You could keep going for ever – new articles come from researchers in a constant stream! A rule of thumb is to stop reading when you sense you are no longer finding new ideas.

Credibility.

Even a refined search is likely to throw up lots of material from a range of sources. Wherever your material comes from, you should always scrutinise it carefully. But how do you decide what you can trust (therefore making it useful), and what you can’t?

Assessing a source’s credibility is a good place to start. Making sure you draw your evidence from credible, believable, trustworthy sources is very important for your research.

Quiz: judging credibility.

Comments on credibility of sources.

In order of least to most credible, below we explain why each source is credible or not:

• Tabloid newspaper article:  this kind of reporting puts a priority on the sensational and doesn't always give a full and balanced story.
• Podcast:  podcasts often present the podcaster’s personal opinion, and it’s not always obvious whether that’s based on research.
• Popular science books:  authors usually draw material from a range of sources, and sometimes interview the researchers to get a first-hand view.
• New Scientist article:  this magazine has a good reputation for serious science journalism, and the articles usually have links to the original research so the reader can investigate further for themselves.
• Original research paper:  research papers usually give the reader the evidence that the researchers gathered, so the reader can review it for themselves.

Judging credibility – Thomas’ thoughts.

Thomas, who is a lecturer in space governance, discusses the credibility of materials. As you watch his video, listen out for the ways in which he judges credibility.

‘How do you judge the credibility of a source? That is, what questions do you ask yourself when you read or review a source?’

So this is one of the more important questions for any researcher, particularly one in the humanities such as myself. It’s also one of the hardest, especially when you’re just starting out because the honest answer is: it’s experience. I’ve learned enough about my field that I can differentiate between ‘I don’t agree with this’ and ‘this is nonsense’ but obviously that wasn’t always the case. So in the early days, in high school and undergraduate, there are a few things you can look at to get an understanding of what makes a good source. First port of call is always what your teachers and lecturers recommend, they’ve got that experience that you don’t have, so they’ll be pushing you in the right direction. Pay attention to how those sources are written, that’ll give you clues as to what makes a good source.

But how to find them on your own? Well again, when just starting out, it’s best to be conservative, to err on the side of caution, so there are a few things you can look to. First is publisher. Academic presses (like Oxford University Press) specialise in publishing scholarly work, so that acts as a form of quality filter. Author is another one. Who is this person, why are they qualified to write an article or a book on this topic? There are other indicators you can use. For example: are there footnotes, references, a bibliography? What sort of sources do they use? How up-to-date are they?

Then there’s the work itself. Is it well-structured and thought out? Do they actually make an argument? Do they explain their reasoning to you, or do they just declare things to be true? ("Well of course it’s true, I said it" – it happens more often than you would think it does!)

Finally, you need to read widely and broadly. You need to read authors you agree with, and authors that you disagree with, and then work out what you think. Gradually you’ll be able to work out what constitutes a good source without being dependent upon some of these indicators – which is good, they’re not ironclad rules; some excellent works of history have been written by people without history degrees. And more importantly, you’ll be able to discern the difference between ‘I don’t agree with this’ and ‘this is nonsense’.

Thomas’ main points

Thomas’ main points were:

• Ask people you trust, such as teachers, what they recommend.
• Look at the quality of the writing – good sources are well-written and well-structured, with evidence to back up the arguments they present.
• Go to reputable sources such as academic publishers.
• Look at the writer’s qualifications on the topic.
• Look at the sources the writer has used.
• Read lots for yourself and build your ability to judge gradually.

Judging credibility – Charlotte's thoughts.

Charlotte, who is a researcher in geochemistry, also has some thoughts about how she judges credibility.

• Thoughts from Charlotte

Figure 16 Charlotte, a researcher in geochemistry Show description A photograph of Charlotte

• the data support the conclusion the authors have come to
• the methods are appropriate and up-to-date
• they haven’t cherry-picked the best data and ignored others
• the authors don’t have any financial interest in coming to a particular conclusion.

If it’s an area she’s less familiar with, she starts with newspapers, online news and experts. She looks for:

• links to the original research
• what qualifies the writer to be an expert in that area
• whether other experts agree with the author
• any hint of conspiracy theories
• whether the authors have any financial interest in a particular conclusion.

Another colleague, Charlotte, who’s interested in extremophiles – life that lives in very extreme environments on Earth – said that for her, essentially the rule of thumb that she uses is, one: peer-reviewed research. This is a term that means that the paper, before it’s published, has been looked at by two or three colleagues who are knowledgeable in the area. They offer comments and the original authors are then able to improve what they’ve written.

Peer-reviewed research is typically what’s published in academic journals, and that’s the most credible source. Everything else; social media, newspapers, online news forums, is less credible. Charlotte says that when she is reading or researching in the field that she’s an expert in – geochemistry – she always develops her ideas using peer-reviewed academic articles, asking herself: do their data support their conclusions? Are they using the most appropriate and up-to-date methods?

Are there signs that they’re cherry-picking the best data, or ignoring data that doesn’t quite fit what they want it to be? And, super important: do the researchers have financial interests in the conclusions? You might not necessarily trust someone who was working for a toothpaste firm to give you the absolute disinterested best data on tooth decay.

However, Charlotte said that when she’s reading about a topic that’s outside her field of expertise, perhaps in something in health and medicine, she finds it much harder to read and understand the peer-reviewed literature, as sadly it will often use specialist language or jargon. Therefore, in such situations, she often uses a larger range of sources, which might well include newspapers, online news, and things written by people who have been deemed experts.

In that case, some of the questions she asks herself are things like: does the expert or the news article refer back to the original research?  Is the news article or expert giving an opinion that’s backed up by a range of research? If it’s someone giving their opinion, what qualifies them to give that opinion? Is there anything about conspiracy theories? Those red flags that Thomas talked about. And again, do the authors seem to have a financial interest in the opinion that they’re pulling out? If the sources she looks at refer to specific academic articles, it  makes her think that these sources may be more credible than those that don’t. And if the experts on news articles are spreading an idea that feels like conspiracy, has been widely debunked, or for which there is very limited evidence, then she doesn’t count that as a credible source.

• Similarities and differences
• Similarities
• Differences

What are the similarities and differences between how Charlotte and Thomas judge credibility? Charlotte is a science researcher, whereas Thomas is a law researcher – do you think this affects their processes? 

Thomas and Charlotte both:

look at where the article has come from – a reputable source or one where work is reviewed by experts

consider the writer’s qualifications to be an expert on a subject

review whether other experts or sources agree with the writer

• check that the arguments or conclusions are supported by data.

Charlotte will look for  links to the original research and any  evidence of financial interests.

Thomas will look at the quality of the writing and the structure of the article.

Whether you use PROMPT, RAVEN or another method of assessing credibility, this will help you determine that you have the best sources possible for your project. Then it is time to get started reading for the literature review.

More about the PROMPT checklist

PROMPT stands for:

• P resentation: Is it clearly written, and can you follow it?
• R elevance:   Does it meet your needs?  Tip: for a speedy check, read the first and last sections (often called the Introduction and Conclusion) and decide whether it’s worth reading the rest.
• O bjectivity:   Does the author make their position clear? Are there any ‘hidden’ interests such as advertising or sponsors?
• M ethod:   Is there any information about how the work was done? For example, if the paper is about the results of a survey, do they tell you what the questions were?
• P rovenance:   Where does the article come from – university? Government? News media? Someone’s personal website? How much can you trust the source?
• T imeliness:  W hen was the information produced? Could it be out of date? Have ideas changed? (But remember that old is not necessarily bad; you could use older information to compare with current thinking.)

Try using the PROMPT checklist on the articles you have found.

There is more information about  PROMPT  on the OU’s Library Services website. Click here for a downloadable and printable version.

• Reading critically

A good research review is more than just a list of ‘she says this ... they say that … he says the other’. It’s an opportunity to test and show the strength of different arguments and the contribution they have made to your thinking.

The key is to  critically read   the material you have found.

The aim of critical reading is to assess the strength of the evidence and the argument. It is just as useful to conclude that a study, or an article, presents very strong evidence and a well-reasoned argument as it is to identify the studies or articles that are weak.

As you read, it is useful to keep asking yourself questions such as:

Why am I reading this? –  Because it’s interesting? Useful? Has good information for me?

Do I trust the source? –  What evidence do I have that the source is trustworthy?

What claims are the authors making? –  Have they included their conclusions?

Do I think those claims are trustworthy? –  Have the authors given me the evidence they are basing their claims on so I can judge for myself?

Imagine you were researching the question: ‘what is the influence of advertising on people’s consumption of junk food?’

Remembering that you will find material from a range of sources. Here we’ll use an article from the  Guardian newspaper’s website.

What information in the article do you think would be relevant or useful to help you answer this question? Use the questions in the ‘Reading critically’ tab to help you reflect.

What did you think about as you read the article?

You might have picked up points such as:

• Why am I reading this?
• It is about the effect of advertising on people buying junk food, so it is relevant to the question.
• Do I trust the source?
• It comes from the Guardian , a well-known UK newspaper.
• The writer is named, so you could check on other things they have written – for example, if they specialise in writing articles about food or have a background in food science.
• What claims are the authors making?
• That a ban on junk food advertising has led to a reduction in purchasing of unhealthy food.
• Do I think those claims are trustworthy?
• The article mentions that the research was done by researchers at a university – you could look for them on the university website.
• One of the researchers is named and there is a quote from them.

At this stage, no one expects you to come up with all these possibilities! But keep those critical questions at the front of your mind as you search for and examine the evidence. Remember to ask:

For more ideas on how to judge the credibility of the material you find and think critically about the contents, watch this short video on critical thinking , produced by the BBC and The Open University. It discusses five key strategies you can use to sharpen your critical thinking.

In this article, we have looked at the second part of the research cycle – how to find the evidence that will help you answer your research question, and how you can start to read it critically and analyse its relevance to your question. When you have finished searching, reading and analysing, you are ready to move on to the next step: writing your dissertation.

Other articles in this series...

EPQs: designing your research question

You’ve already decided to do an EPQ, so it might seem a little odd to start this resource by asking you to consider why you want to do a research project. People do an EPQ for all sorts of reasons. Why do you want to do an EPQ?

EPQs: writing up your dissertation

You have collected and analysed your evidence and considered it in relation to your research question. The next step is to communicate all that you have done. Your dissertation is the element of the EPQ that is read and assessed by others who haven’t been involved in your research.

EPQs: why give a presentation?

What are the guidelines for the presentation?

Become an OU student

Ratings & comments, share this free course, copyright information, publication details.

• Originally published: Wednesday, 3 May 2023
• Body text - Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 : The Open University
• Image 'Photo of Julia' - Copyright: AstrobiologyOU
• Image 'Photo of Mars' - Copyright: Image by  WikiImages  from  Pixabay  
• Image 'Photo of Valles Marineris' - Copyright: Image by  Alexander Antropov  from  Pixabay  
• Image 'Devyani's mindmap' - Copyright: Devyani Gajjar, AstrobiologyOU
• Image 'Scattering of keywords printed out and cut up' - Copyright: The Open University 
• Image 'An illustration depicting the research process' - Copyright: Ann Grand
• Image 'Photo of Michael, a researcher from AstrobiologyOU.' - Copyright: Michael Macey
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191+ Unique EPQ Ideas For Students With PDF

September 26, 2024

The EPQ gives students a chance to explore something they love. It’s a deep dive into a topic that interests you, like a personal learning adventure. You can create something unique, solve a problem, or learn more about a subject that excites you. 

The project also teaches essential skills like research and time management, which are helpful for school and beyond. 

Plus, it looks great on college applications. The best part is you follow your passion and show your abilities. The EPQ journey offers many new learning experiences and rewards.

Must Read : 151+ Best Animal Cell Project Ideas To Try On

Table of Contents

What Is An EPQ (Extended Project Qualification)?

An EPQ is a research project for UK students aged 16-19. It is worth half an A-level and helps students show their ability to study independently. Students pick a topic, plan it out, research, and create a final product like an essay, report, or something they made. 

They also give a presentation and write about the project in a log. EPQs help students build essential skills like critical thinking, managing time, and writing for academic purposes. Topics can cover anything, from science to history.

This project makes students stand out when applying to universities and prepares them for college. EPQs are self-led, letting students explore their interests beyond what they learn in class.

EPQ Ideas Across Various Categories

Here are the latest unique EPQ ideas across various categories:

Medicine EPQ Ideas:

• How gut bacteria affect mental health
• New ways to treat antibiotic-resistant infections
• Using virtual reality for pain management
• Gene editing to cure inherited diseases
• 3D printing organs for transplants
• Personalised cancer treatments based on genetics
• Telemedicine’s impact on rural healthcare access
• Nanotechnology in targeted drug delivery systems
• Brain-computer interfaces for paralysed patients
• Stem cell therapy for spinal cord injuries
• AI-powered early disease detection methods
• Robotic surgery advancements and patient outcomes
• Microbiome’s role in autoimmune disorders
• Wearable tech for real-time health monitoring
• Gene therapy for blindness and vision disorders
• Drug repurposing for rare disease treatments
• Epigenetics in cancer prevention strategies
• Immunotherapy breakthroughs in cancer treatment
• Bioprinting human tissue for drug testing
• Psychedelic drugs in mental health treatment
• Gut-brain axis in neurodegenerative diseases
• CRISPR technology in genetic disorder treatments
• Artificial wombs for premature babies
• Precision medicine in diabetes management
• Exoskeletons for mobility in elderly patients
• Optogenetics in Treating Neurological Disorders
• Bioengineered vaccines for emerging infectious diseases
• Microfluidics in rapid disease diagnostics
• Regenerative medicine for heart disease treatment
• Smart pills for medication adherence tracking
• Focused ultrasound for non-invasive brain surgery
• Nasal spray vaccines for respiratory infections
• Biomaterials in wound healing acceleration
• Digital twins for personalised healthcare planning
• Extracellular vesicles in regenerative medicine
• Neurofeedback therapy for ADHD treatment
• Biodegradable electronics for temporary medical implants
• Gut microbiota transplants for obesity treatment
• Organoids in drug discovery and testing
• Liquid biopsies for early cancer detection

Engineering EPQ Ideas:

• Self-healing Concrete for sustainable Infrastructure
• Hyperloop transportation system feasibility study
• Vertical farming techniques for urban agriculture
• Algae-based biofuels for sustainable energy
• Smart textiles for health monitoring
• Ocean Plastic Cleanup Technologies comparison
• Earthquake-resistant building design innovations
• Graphene applications in electronics manufacturing
• Solar roadways for energy generation
• Drone delivery systems for urban areas
• Waste-to-energy conversion technologies assessment
• Biomimicry in sustainable product design
• 4D printing applications in construction
• Artificial photosynthesis for clean energy production
• Swarm robotics in disaster response operations
• Piezoelectric energy harvesting from footsteps
• Space elevator concept and engineering challenges
• Fog harvesting systems for water-scarce regions
• Magnetic levitation in transportation systems
• Bioplastics from agricultural waste materials
• Origami-inspired deployable structures in space
• Metamaterials in invisibility cloak development
• Quantum dot solar cells efficiency improvements
• Hydroponics systems for Mars colonisation
• Self-driving car ethics and decision-making
• Soft robotics in minimally invasive surgery
• Wireless power transmission for electric vehicles
• Carbon capture and storage technologies
• Shape memory alloys in aerospace applications
• Neuromorphic computing for AI efficiency
• Acoustic cloaking devices for noise reduction
• Biodegradable electronics for e-waste reduction
• Plasma propulsion for deep space exploration
• Robotic exoskeletons for industrial workers
• Artificial muscles from smart materials
• Hypersonic aircraft design and challenges
• Biomechanical energy harvesters for wearables
• Self-assembling nanobots for targeted drug delivery
• Acoustic levitation in manufacturing processes
• Transparent aluminium in armour applications

Computer Science EPQ Ideas:

• Quantum computing in cryptography breaking
• Federated learning for privacy-preserving AI
• Brain-inspired neuromorphic computing architectures
• Edge computing in the Internet of Things
• Explainable AI for medical diagnosis systems
• Homomorphic encryption for secure cloud computing
• Adversarial machine learning in cybersecurity
• Swarm intelligence in traffic management systems
• Natural language processing for mental health
• Blockchain in Supply Chain Transparency
• Computer vision in autonomous driving safety
• Emotion recognition AI in education
• Quantum machine learning algorithms development
• Reinforcement learning in robotics control
• DNA-based data storage technologies
• Virtual reality in phobia treatment
• Generative Adversarial networks in Art Creation
• Cognitive computing in financial fraud detection
• Graph neural networks for drug discovery
• Augmented reality in surgical training
• Evolutionary algorithms in antenna design
• Sentiment analysis for social media monitoring
• Distributed ledger technology in voting systems
• Computer-generated holography display technologies
• Bioinformatics in personalised medicine development
• Quantum sensing in navigation systems
• Machine learning in climate change prediction
• Natural language generation for automated journalism
• Deep learning in seismic data interpretation
• Robotic process automation in healthcare
• Conversational AI in customer service
• Quantum dots in next-generation display technology
• Edge AI for smart city management
• Differential privacy in data anonymisation
• Neuroevolution in game AI development
• Haptic feedback systems in virtual reality
• Topological data analysis in complex networks
• Quantum error correction in fault-tolerant computing
• Computational creativity in music composition
• Fuzzy logic in industrial control systems

Economics EPQ Examples:

• Cryptocurrency’s impact on traditional banking systems
• Universal Basic Income Economic Feasibility Study
• Behavioral economics in public policy design
• Circular economy models for sustainable growth
• Carbon pricing Mechanisms Effectiveness analysis
• Gig economy effects on labour markets
• Algorithmic trading impact on market volatility
• Green bonds in financing environmental projects
• Sharing economy influence on consumer behaviour
• Microfinance in poverty alleviation strategies
• Blockchain technology in remittance services
• Nudge theory applications in healthcare economics
• Artificial intelligence in economic forecasting
• Game theory in international trade negotiations
• Digital currencies in developing economies
• Network effects in platform business models
• Behavioural nudges in retirement savings plans
• Crowdfunding impact on startup financing
• Freemium business model economic viability
• Dynamic pricing strategies in e-commerce
• Peer-to-peer lending platforms economic analysis
• Social impact bonds in public service delivery
• Tokenomics in decentralised finance systems
• Subscription economy effects on consumer spending
• Prediction markets in political forecasting
• Time banking in community economic development
• Attention economy in digital marketing strategies
• Sovereign wealth funds in national economies
• Reputation systems in online marketplaces
• Gamification in Employee Productivity Incentives
• Collaborative consumption impact on the retail sector
• Fintech disruption in traditional financial services
• Smart contracts in supply chain management
• Data monetisation strategies for businesses
• Intergenerational wealth transfer economic implications
• Macroprudential policies in financial stability
• Nowcasting techniques in economic indicators
• Longevity economy opportunities and challenges
• Inclusive capitalism models for equitable growth
• Consumer economy in energy markets

Mechanical Engineering EPQ Ideas:

• Biomimetic robots for deep-sea exploration
• Thermoelectric materials in waste heat recovery
• Compliant mechanisms in precision instruments
• Magnetorheological fluids in shock absorbers
• Triboelectric nanogenerators for energy harvesting
• Auxetic materials in impact-resistant designs
• Acoustic metamaterials for noise cancellation
• Origami-inspired deployable space structures
• Piezoelectric actuators in precision positioning
• Self-healing materials in automotive applications
• Cloaking devices using transformation optics
• Biomechanical energy harvesters in prosthetics
• Negative stiffness mechanisms in vibration isolation
• Morphing wings for adaptive aircraft design
• Fluidic artificial muscles in soft robotics
• Friction stir welding in aerospace manufacturing
• Magnetocaloric materials in refrigeration systems
• Tensegrity structures in deployable antennas
• Phononic crystals in thermal management
• Ferrofluid-based adaptive optics systems
• Kirigami-inspired stretchable electronics
• Vortex-induced vibration energy harvesting
• Functionally graded materials in thermal barriers
• Pneumatic artificial muscles in rehabilitation devices
• Perovskite materials in thermoelectric generators
• Bistable mechanisms in energy-efficient actuators
• Phononic waveguides in ultrasonic imaging
• Electrorheological fluids in haptic feedback systems
• Triboelectric effect in self-powered sensors
• Topological optimisation in lightweight structures
• Magneto-active polymers in soft actuators
• Aerogels in thermal insulation applications
• Ferroelectric materials in energy storage devices
• Biomimetic adhesives inspired by gecko feet
• Thermoacoustic engines for space power generation
• Magnetically levitated bearings in turbomachinery
• Phase-change materials in thermal management systems
• Dielectric elastomers in artificial muscles
• Photonic Crystals in structural colour applications

How To Get An A * In EPQ?

To get an A* in EPQ:

• Pick a topic that is interesting and unique
• Plan your project carefully
• Research using trusted sources
• Develop strong analytical and critical skills
• Write clearly with good structure
• Show independent thinking and creativity
• Manage your time well
• Keep a detailed production log
• Reflect on your process deeply
• Practice your presentation skills a lot
• Go beyond the basic requirements
• Get regular feedback from your supervisor
• Revise and improve your work often
• Show passion for your subject
• Connect your project to other areas
• Address counterarguments in your work
• Use data and evidence well
• Check for errors carefully
• Show original insights and conclusions
• Relate your project to a bigger context

Top 20 EPQ Questions

• How does social media affect teen mental health?
• Can vertical farming solve world hunger?
• Are self-driving cars safer than human drivers?
• How effective are current cancer treatments?
• What impact does AI have on job markets?
• Can renewable energy fully replace fossil fuels?
• How do video games influence cognitive development?
• Is space colonisation possible shortly?
• Do violent video games cause more aggressive behaviour?
• How can we reduce plastic pollution in oceans?
• Are GMOs the solution to global food shortages?
• Can mindfulness meditation treat anxiety disorders well?
• How does sleep loss affect school performance?
• Is universal basic income possible in the economy?
• Can CRISPR technology safely cure genetic diseases?
• How does music education affect brain growth?
• Are cryptocurrencies the future of world finance?
• Can lab-grown meat help with environmental issues?
• How good are current programs to stop bullying?
• Does being bilingual delay the start of Alzheimer’s disease?

Also Read: Best 17+ Cell City Project Ideas for Students 2024

EPQ Ideas lets students explore topics they enjoy. The Extended Project Qualification is a big project that requires you to choose what to study. You can write a long paper, create something, or run an experiment. It’s all about learning and showing what you’ve discovered. 

EPQ projects can cover anything—from space to music to sports. You’ll learn to research, manage time, and share results. 

This project helps you prepare for college and future careers. Teachers offer support, but you lead the work. EPQ Ideas lets you be creative and explore subjects that interest you. It’s a great way to learn and grow.

I am a creative professional with over 5 years of experience in coming up with project ideas. I'm great at brainstorming, doing market research, and analyzing what’s possible to develop innovative and impactful projects. I also excel in collaborating with teams, managing project timelines, and ensuring that every idea turns into a successful outcome. Let's work together to make your next project a success!

Best 17+ Cell City Project Ideas for Students 2024

Top 20 movie poster project ideas for students.

This discussion is now closed.

• Are supervisors allowed to read over EPQ?
• Psychology EPQ advice
• I got an A* for my EPQ - ask me anything!
• How to get an A at EPQ
• are these good a level choices?
• will my chosen a levels be too difficult?
• are EPQs worth it (doing one with 3 a levels)
• NEA Investigation English Language Structure
• I got these grades. Ask me anything
• How to get an A/A* in the AQA EPQ
• EPQ Artefact Essay
• EPQ ideas - Physics
• Is my EPQ topic good?
• EPQ Exemplars
• Should i do an EPQ?
• Huddersfield Headstart

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