Hey everyone, I'm a junior and I'll be taking APUSH this year. I'm struggling with writing DBQs (Document Based Questions) for our class assignments. Any tips, strategies, or links to resources on how to effectively structure and write a DBQ would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Hey there! I understand that writing a DBQ can be overwhelming at first, but with practice and some key strategies, you'll get the hang of it. Here are some steps to help you structure and write a solid DBQ:
1) Read and understand the question prompt: Make sure to carefully read the prompt, identify the main ideas it's asking you to focus on, and keep it in mind as you analyze the documents.
2) Analyze the documents: Read through each document and take brief notes on their main points. Also, make note of any biases or perspectives the documents may hold.
3) Group the documents: Identify connections between the documents and group them accordingly, usually in 2-3 groups. This will help you better organize your essay.
4) Develop a clear thesis: Create a well-defined thesis statement that directly answers the question and puts forward an argument that you'll support with evidence from the documents.
5) Write the essay: In your essay, aim to have a clear introduction, body paragraphs that analyze the documents and support your thesis, and a strong conclusion that reaffirms your argument. Remember to provide historical context and give credit to the documents when appropriate. You might find the resources from College Board and the CollegeVine blog quite helpful in your preparation.
Good luck, and happy writing!
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