I'm starting to prep for the AP US History exam and I've seen the term DBQ (document-based question) a few times. What exactly is a DBQ and how should I approach it in my studying?
A DBQ, or document-based question, is a type of question you'll encounter on the AP US History exam. It's designed to assess your ability to analyze historical documents, synthesize information from different sources, and construct a well-reasoned and cohesive argument in response to a provided prompt.
When approaching a DBQ, you'll be given a set of primary and secondary source documents (usually 5-7) related to a specific historical topic or period. Your task is to use evidence from these documents, along with your own knowledge of US History, to craft an essay addressing the prompt. The key is to effectively analyze the content of the documents, cite relevant information, and develop a clear argument supported by the sources.
In your studying, focus on practicing close reading and analysis of historical documents, and get familiar with key events and periods in US History. Make sure you're comfortable with time management, too, since you'll typically have about an hour to complete the DBQ section during the exam.
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