1. Conquering the DBQ Essay
AP U.S. History

2. Step 0
Identify the time period (navigation point)

3. Step 1: Take Inventory
List all relevant information that comes to mind about the topic at hand
Do not spend a lot of time on this. No more than 1-2 minutes.. 
Personalities/Major Events/Significant Dates/Historians’ Titles good areas of focus

4. Step 2: The Prompt Read the Question
What the author is asking from the student
BREAK DOWN THE QUESTION INTO PARTS!

5. STEP 3: The Outline
Write down your basic plan of attack as you begin your investigation.
15 minute recommended reading period. How to slow down?  
A Basic Outline
Introduction + Thesis
Setting the Scene (StS)
Example A
Example B
Example C
Concession Statement
Conclusion

6. Step 4: Intro + Thesis Do not restate questions/prompts
1-2 sentences of background information + Thesis
Thesis
What the essay is all about
Thesis Statement, Not Thesis Sentence

7. Step 5: Setting the Stage
Write about the time period
Use the Period breakdowns as bookends
Write about events and how they are influenced by different time periods
4-6 sentences
Benefits: Place question in context, establish parameters, and demonstrates credibility

8. Steps 6-8: Presenting Your Case
Evidence: Shoot for three topics with three pieces of evidence for each topic
Look for similarities and differences
Guidelines
Note the prompts
Develop essay in linear (sequential) fashion
Name sources
Use a parathetical citation

9. Steps 6-8: Presenting Your Case
Guidelines
Use all or all but one of the documents
Names/Major Events
Cultural references
Naming different historians
Return to the Inventory if stuck
Remember, this is a first draft!
Do not take controversial stands

10. Step 9: Rebuttal/Concession Statement
Explain the fundamental argument of the opposing position…….THEN REFUTE IT!!!
Shows you understand point from different perspectives

11. Step 10: Conclusion
Tell them what you said and, as always, try to extend your thesis
You should be employing synthesis throughout the essay, but the conclusion can also offer an opportunity to do this.