DBQ Essay

DBQ Essay Writing

Thesis Statement

  • If proficient in thesis writing, DBQ should be manageable.
  • Same structure as other essays; focus on organizing documents into categories.
  • Categories become the three main points discussed in the body paragraphs.
  • Thesis goes in the introductory paragraph, along with contextualization.
  • Thesis sets up the three body paragraphs.
  • The DBQ essay should consist of 4 paragraphs in total.

Paragraph Structure

  • Total Paragraphs: 4
  • Introductory Paragraph: Thesis + Contextualization
  • Three Body Paragraphs: Supporting thesis with document analysis and outside evidence.

Contextualization

  • Contextualization can be before, during, or after the DBQ's time period.
  • Connect the DBQ prompt/event to a broader historical context.
  • Aim to make an effort to contextualize the prompt.
  • The contextualization cannot be reused as outside evidence.

Evidence

  • Use documents to support the thesis.
  • To get one point need to properly use three documents.
  • To get two points, use all documents - generally seven documents are provided.

Evidence Beyond the Documents

  • Incorporate outside evidence to support the thesis.
  • Use external information to strengthen the argument.

Document Sourcing

  • Cite documents using (Doc #) format. E.g., (Doc 1), (Doc 2), etc.
  • Avoid direct quotes.
  • Paraphrase or put information into your own words.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the document's meaning and relevance to the thesis.

Analysis and Reasoning

  • For two of the documents, sourcing is required.
  • Sourcing should not be placed at the end of the essay, but within the body paragraphs. For example, you can reference the point of view of a historical figure by saying, "The point of view of Lincoln was this."
  • Once a document is sourced, it doesn't need to be referenced again.
  • Stick to the chosen categories in the documents. If a document supports category one, only use it in the first body paragraph.
  • Choose the category that a document best supports.
  • Can analyze documents using purpose, historical situation, etc.; historical situation is often easiest.
  • Consistency is acceptable, e.g., using historical situation for all documents.

Complex Understanding

  • Demonstrate a solid, airtight argument.
  • Use every document to get the complex understanding point.
  • Source four documents to get the complex understanding point.
  • Demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of different perspectives relevant to the prompt.

General Advice

  • Present the thesis and argument, then provide evidence to support it.
  • The complex understanding point is attainable.
  • When discussing a document, cite it using (DOC #).
  • Do not use direct quotes; paraphrase instead.
  • Use documents to support the argument.
  • Aim to complete the organization in about 10 minutes.
  • If a document fits multiple categories, choose the best one.
  • There is no definitively right or wrong choice; focus is on how documents support your argument.

Scoring

  • Total points possible: 7
  • Goal: Aim for 5 points.

Additional Tips

  • DBQ is typically related to a significant historical event.
  • Only one piece of outside evidence is needed.
  • Avoid repeating information within the documents.
  • It is acceptable to reference the same document back to back if needed to support a point and reinforce its importance. E.g., "doc 3, and then I want to reiterate with doc 3".