What are the expectations for DBQ responses?

I'm finding DBQs quite challenging and I really want to get it right. What exactly are examiners looking for in a DBQ response? Is there a specific structure or approach I should be using?

When grading a Document-Based Question (DBQ), examiners are generally looking to ensure that you've managed to accomplish a few key tasks.

Firstly, being able to contextualize the documents is important. This means providing some background information in your introduction that sets the scene for the rest of your response. To score high marks, aim to situate the documents within their broader historical context, detailing the relevant time period, significant historical events, and any critical cultural or socio-political significance.

Secondly, examiners will assess your ability to accurately interpret and analyze documents. This means you'll need to summarize each source, explain the author's point of view and purpose, and relate the document's content to your overall argument. Avoid merely describing what's in the documents; you should also draw conclusions about what they mean and why they're important.

Additionally, using the documents to support your thesis is essential. This is called "document usage" and it involves using facts, examples, or details from the documents to support your argument. You should aim to use all or almost all of the documents in your response.

Exam graders also focus on your ability to bring in outside knowledge. This refers to incorporating relevant factual information that's not included in the documents to boost your argument. This should be distinct evidence, not something that's clearly inferred from the documents themselves.

On the question of structure, a five-paragraph essay format can work well for DBQ responses. You should have an intro paragraph with a clear thesis statement, three body paragraphs each focusing on analysis of one or more documents, and a conclusion that reiterates your thesis and wraps up your argument.

Lastly, don't forget about your writing style and adherence to conventional grammar rules. Examiners typically appreciate clean, concise, and organized writing that's free of major grammatical errors.

Remember to take a few minutes at the beginning of the test to read through the documents carefully and plan your response. Writing a strong DBQ is an exercise in creating a well-reasoned and well-supported argument, and taking a little time at the beginning to plan can really help make your argument clear and persuasive.