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AP World DBQ writing advice?

I'm taking AP World this year and I need some pointers on how to write a strong DBQ for the exam. What have you guys found helpful in terms of resources, strategies, or advice?

2 years ago

When it comes to writing a strong AP World History DBQ, there are several strategies and tips that you can consider to help you succeed. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to approach the DBQ:

1. Understand the prompt: Before diving into the documents, make sure you carefully read the prompt and understand what it's asking. Create a clear and precise thesis statement that responds to the prompt directly.

2. Analyze the documents: Go through each of the documents and take notes on their main ideas, possible biases, and historical context. As you do so, start thinking about how the documents relate to the prompt and how you can use them as evidence.

3. Categorize the documents: Group the documents into categories based on common themes or perspectives. This helps you organize your thoughts and more effectively incorporate the documents into your essay.

4. Outline your essay: Create a brief outline with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. In each body paragraph, include a topic sentence that supports your thesis statement and connects to the categories you've identified. Also, make sure to plan for the points you'll make about sourcing, context, audience, purpose, or point of view (HIPP analysis) in each paragraph.

5. Write your essay: Start your essay with a clear and concise introduction that includes your thesis statement. In your body paragraphs, provide specific evidence from the documents as well as from your own knowledge of world history. Don't forget to analyze the documents using HIPP analysis and connect the evidence back to your thesis. Finally, conclude your essay by summarizing your main points and restating your thesis.

Some resources to consider:

- College Board AP World History: Modern resources: The College Board provides sample DBQs, rubrics, and guidelines that can help you understand what is expected in a DBQ response for the AP World History: Modern exam.

- Your AP World History teacher or tutor: If you have questions or uncertainties, ask your teacher or tutor. They will be able to provide guidance specific to your writing style and abilities.

- AP World History prep books: Study guides like "Barron's AP World History: Modern" and "The Princeton Review's Cracking the AP World History: Modern Exam" can provide useful tips, strategies, and sample DBQs to practice with.

- Online forums and study groups: Join online forums like College Confidential, Reddit's /r/APStudents, or even form a local study group to share tips, strategies, and insights on writing DBQs.

Remember, practice is key! The more you practice writing DBQs and analyzing documents, the better prepared you'll be for the AP World History exam. Good luck!

2 years ago

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