AP European History

Advanced Placement European History studying European civilization from 1450 to present.

Study Strategies

Mastering Document-Based Questions (DBQs)

How to Tackle DBQs

Document-Based Questions are a key part of the AP European History exam. To succeed, practice analyzing sources, grouping them by theme, and crafting a clear thesis. Use evidence from the documents and your knowledge to build strong arguments. Organize your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs for each group, and a conclusion. Remember to address point of view and context for each source.

Examples

  • Grouping sources about the Reformation by religious, political, and economic perspectives.

  • Using a letter from a factory worker to support an argument about industrial working conditions.