Hello fellow students! I'm struggling a bit with DBQs in my history class. Do any of you have examples of what a well-structured DBQ looks like, or any advice on how to approach writing one?
Sure, happy to share some tips on how to tackle DBQs (Document-Based Questions).
To structure a DBQ well, start with an introductory paragraph that includes a brief context of the time period and a clear thesis statement. The thesis should answer the question and show direction for your essay. For example, "Despite increased tensions, the Civil War could have been avoided if there were better negotiations about slavery."
Your body paragraphs should relate back to your thesis. Each paragraph should include these components:
- Topic Sentence: This sentence should directly refer back to the thesis.
- Evidence: This involves quoting a document, discussing specific information from a document, or referencing an image or data.
- Analysis: Explain how the document supports your thesis.
- Outside Evidence: Refer to historical facts or events that are not mentioned in the documents but support your argument.
- Connection: Link your paragraph back to your thesis.
Remember, each paragraph should analyze at least one document, but often you'll need to use multiple documents per paragraph.
In conclusion, restates your thesis and summarizes your argument. No new information should be introduced here.
And some general tips:
1. Before you start writing, take time to understand what the question is asking and make a rough plan or outline.
2. Analyze the documents critically. Do not just summarize them. Instead, use them as evidence to support your argument.
3. Make sure each paragraph ties back to your thesis in some way.
4. Always cite your sources. This is usually done by inserting the document number in parentheses after each reference (for example, “(Doc 1)”).
5. Don't forget to address any provided perspectives or viewpoints on your topic and show understanding of historical context.
Working on DBQs can certainly be challenging, but with practice and these tips in mind, you'll improve over time. Good luck!
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.