How to write a dbq

1. Writing the DBQ:
Document-Based
Question

2. What is the Document-
Based Question?
A document-based question
requires students to defend
an assertion by using an
analysis of historical
documents and outside
knowledge (previous
knowledge) of a specific time
period and topic.

3. Solving a Mystery
Writing a DBQ is similar to
solving a mystery or a crime
You need to use your
previous knowledge along
with the evidence (the
documents) to help solve
the mystery – the question
that is being asked.
As is true with a mystery or
crime, some evidence is
better than other evidence!

4. Six Steps to Answering a
Document-Based
Question
1.Read the question,
and make sure you
understand all parts
of the question.
2.“Cluster” outside
information (use a
web) to establish
outside/previous
knowledge.
3.Read the
documents, and
analyze each
document as you
read.
4. Make an assertion –
formulate a thesis,
ensuring that it
directly answers the
questions.
5. Use the “Yes/But”
Strategy to form the
defense of your
assertion and to test
your assertion.
6. Write the essay. (Note:
on the AP exam
students have 60
minutes to work on
the DBQ. Spend 15-20
minutes on the first
five steps. Spend 40-
45 minutes writing the
essay.

5. Step Five: Yes/But
Here is where you will up your score by
recognizing the other side of the assertion
you made – and then destroying it in your
writing.
“Although slavery was morally and
socially wrong, the thirteen colonies
could not have been economically
successful without the institution of
slavery.”
You recognize that slavery is wrong, you
do not hide this fact, but will convince
the reader that the economic situation
made it a “necessary evil.”

6. Basic Facts
DBQ essays with no outside
information or analysis will
receive a score no higher
than a four.
Students need to stay within
the time period of the
question
Students who effectively use
Yes/But statements drive
their scores up.
Avoid quoting long passages
– focus on analysis, not
regurgitation.

7. Basic Facts, cont.
Analyze and make
inferences, do not simply
repeat what the document
says
Always refer to the
document parenthetical by
the title of the document,
NOT by its letter!
Students should use the
introductory paragraph to
define terms, provide
historical background,
define the time period, and
state points of validation.
Keep introductory
information to a minimum.

8. Basic Facts, cont.
Students should use
specific names, terms
and events
Always make sure that
you keep returning to the
main topic/your thesis –
do not wander!
Lastly, use as many
documents as you can,
but you do not need to
use every single one.
Aim to use half plus one.
Know the difference
between description and
analysis

9. Citing Documents
When citing documents do’s and don’ts
Do no begin a statement
 “….. as seen in document A”
“In document B …..”
“Document C stated….”
Write about the document – make
inferences at the end (doc A)

10. Ready, Set, Go!!
Now you have the
basic formula for
writing a successful
DBQ.
We will work on this
skill together all year
long -- HOW
EXCITING!!!