How to Write a DBQ Essay

How to Write a DBQ Essay: A Complete Guide

A DBQ (Document-Based Question) essay is a key component of history exams such as the AP U.S. History, AP European History, and AP World History exams. It tests a student’s ability to analyze historical documents, formulate a thesis, and craft an argument supported by evidence from these sources. In this guide, we’ll break down the steps to write a successful DBQ essay, explain its structure, and share tips to help you achieve the best results.

What Is a DBQ Essay?

A DBQ essay is designed to assess a student’s historical analysis skills. It requires students to analyze a series of documents—letters, speeches, newspaper articles, charts, maps, etc.—and use them to support an argument in response to a prompt. Unlike traditional essays, a DBQ provides the evidence, so students are evaluated on how well they can interpret and utilize these documents, as well as integrate them into a coherent essay.

Steps to Writing a DBQ Essay

1. Understand the Prompt
   • Before diving into the documents, carefully read the DBQ prompt to fully understand the question. It typically asks for an explanation of causes, effects, or changes in a historical period or event. Pay attention to keywords such as “analyze,” “compare,” “evaluate,” or “assess,” which guide your approach to the essay.
2. Read and Analyze the Documents
   • Once you understand the prompt, proceed to analyze the provided documents. Most DBQs include 5-7 documents. While reviewing, note the author, time period, and perspective of each document. Ask yourself:
     • What is the author’s intent?
     • How does this document support or contradict others?
     • What historical context is necessary to understand this document? Jot down brief notes or mark key points that you can reference later in your essay.
3. Develop a Thesis Statement
   • Your thesis is the backbone of your DBQ essay. It should directly respond to the prompt and present a clear argument. Aim for a specific, nuanced thesis rather than a broad or vague statement. Example of a strong thesis: “The rise of industrialization in the 19th century led to significant social and economic changes, particularly for urban workers, as evidenced by increased labor strikes and the emergence of labor unions.”
4. Group the Documents
   • After analyzing the documents, identify patterns or themes that can help you group them into categories. Most DBQ essays benefit from organizing the documents into 2-3 categories based on themes or arguments. For instance, you could group documents that share similar views or those that present opposing perspectives.
5. Include Outside Knowledge
   • While the DBQ provides historical documents, it also requires you to bring in your own knowledge of the period. Reference key facts, events, or figures not included in the documents to strengthen your argument. This demonstrates a deep understanding of the historical context.
6. Create an Outline
   • To ensure a clear structure, create a rough outline before writing your essay. Your outline should include:
     • Introduction: Present the context, introduce the main themes, and state your thesis.
     • Body Paragraphs: Organize by themes or categories (based on your document grouping). Each paragraph should support a specific aspect of your thesis, citing 2-3 documents as evidence.
     • Conclusion: Summarize your argument, restate the thesis in different words, and briefly reflect on the broader historical significance.
7. Write the Introduction
   • Begin with a brief introduction that sets the historical stage. Provide context by summarizing the time period or event you’re writing about. Include your thesis statement at the end of the introduction, making it clear how you will answer the DBQ prompt.
8. Write the Body Paragraphs
   • Each body paragraph should focus on one key point related to your thesis. For each point, analyze the relevant documents and explain how they support your argument. Avoid merely summarizing the documents—always relate them back to your thesis.
     • Cite documents properly: When referring to a document, label it as (Doc A), (Doc B), etc. depending on how they’re identified in the DBQ.
     • Incorporate outside information: Integrate relevant historical facts, events, or examples to show a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
9. Write the Conclusion
   • In the conclusion, briefly summarize your main arguments and restate the thesis. If possible, comment on the broader historical context or the implications of your findings. Avoid introducing new arguments or documents in the conclusion.

Tips for Writing a Strong DBQ Essay

• Stay organized: A clear, well-structured essay is easier to follow and more likely to score well. Keep your paragraphs focused and ensure each one relates back to your thesis.
• Use a balanced mix of documents: Incorporate as many documents as possible into your analysis, but avoid over-relying on one or two. This shows a well-rounded understanding of the evidence.
• Cite documents appropriately: Always reference the documents in your essay, but avoid long quotes. Instead, paraphrase key points and analyze them.
• Be concise: You’ll be working under a time limit, so avoid unnecessary details and focus on building a strong, evidence-based argument.
• Proofread your essay: If time permits, quickly review your essay for grammar mistakes, unclear sentences, or misinterpretations of the documents.

DBQ Essay Structure Example

Introduction:

• Contextualize the prompt by providing historical background.
• State the thesis that directly answers the prompt.

Body Paragraph 1:

• Focus on the first theme or category.
• Use 2-3 documents to support your point.
• Include outside knowledge to bolster your argument.

Body Paragraph 2:

• Introduce the second theme or category.
• Analyze another set of documents.
• Incorporate additional outside information.

Body Paragraph 3 (if needed):

• Introduce a final theme or category.
• Discuss the relevant documents and provide your analysis.

Conclusion:

• Restate your thesis and summarize key points.
• Reflect on the broader implications or significance of the argument.

Final Thoughts on Writing a DBQ Essay

Writing a DBQ essay can seem daunting, especially when you’re working under exam conditions. However, with careful analysis, proper organization, and thoughtful argumentation, you can craft a well-structured and persuasive essay. Remember to analyze each document in relation to your thesis and demonstrate your broader historical knowledge. Practice these strategies, and you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any DBQ essay that comes your way.