Constructing an APUSH DBQ Outline

Hey fellow APUSH students, I've been having trouble structuring a good DBQ outline. It's like the arguments and documents just don't fit together right in my mind sometimes. Can you share any tips or strategies that have helped you in the past?

Building a DBQ outline can sometimes be tricky, especially as you try to align your arguments and documents in a cohesive manner. Here are a few strategies that may help:

1. Understand the prompt: Before you start outlining, ensure that you fully understand the question asked in the DBQ prompt. This will guide your argument and help identify how each document contributes to your thesis.

2. Create a thesis: Your thesis should be a concise statement that articulates your argument or perspective clearly. This will function as the backbone of your entire outline.

3. Categorize the documents: Usually, you'll receive 5-7 documents. After analyzing each document, categorize them according to the points they make or perspectives they offer. Most documents will usually support one of two or three different points of view.

4. Write the body paragraphs: For each category that you've identified, write a body paragraph summarizing the main points of the documents within that category. Remember, each paragraph should have one main idea that aligns with your thesis and uses the documents as evidence to support that idea.

5. Use outside knowledge: If you can, reference your own knowledge of the period to supplement your arguments. This shows that you understand the bigger picture and can place the documents within their historical context.

6. Plan your conclusion: Your conclusion should summarize your arguments and the evidence you provided. It may also point to areas for further study or questions that were not answered.

Remember, the most effective DBQ's have a clear and persuasive argument that uses the documents as evidence, so keep aligning your outline to your thesis.