Ok, so I'm finding writing DBQs for AP US History particularly challenging. How do you guys approach them? What do the graders want to see? I feel like I've tried everything, appreciate any input you guys have!
DBQs (Document-Based Questions) for AP exams can indeed be a bit challenging since they require not only knowledge of the subject matter but also crucial thinking and synthesis skills. Here's my approach:
First, spend about 10-15 minutes analyzing the documents. Start with the source information; it can help you with the context of the document and sometimes offers hints about what points the test creators might be funneling you towards. After that, get into the content of the documents. Look at them not just for the facts they present but also for the tone and perspective they represent.
Second, as you read each document, jot down quick notes. They could be about their main point or their bias if any. Doing this can help you quickly recall what each document contains when you begin to devise your essay.
Before you start writing, spend a few minutes planning out your essay. Identify a thesis statement that answers the prompt directly. This statement should also set up a line of reasoning.
In the body of your essay, each paragraph should ideally use at least one document as evidence to support your argument. Try to include an analysis of the document's point of view, purpose, historical context, or audience (the APPARTS strategy can be helpful here). Be sure to connect the evidence back to your thesis.
A complex understanding—and analysis—is rewarded by the AP score rubrics. Therefore, strive to include contradictions, corroborations, and other relationships among documents, while also considering and evaluating multiple perspectives within your essay.
Lastly, try incorporating outside evidence—facts or examples relevant to your thesis but not mentioned in the documents. This can help show your depth of understanding of the period in question. These could come from your class, textbook, or supplementary reading you've done in your own time.
Writing practice DBQs and getting feedback from your teacher (if possible) can really help as well. Good luck with your preparations!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.