1. AP European History – FRQ and DBQ Essay Preparation
Planning effectively for an essay can dramatically increase your scores!

2. A Plan of Action Introduction:
Thesis – X. However, because of A, B, C, Y.
Paragraph 1: (Topic sentence for point A)
Outside information list
(a)
(b)
(c)
Paragraph 2: (Topic sentence for point B)
Paragraph 3: (Topic sentence for point C)

3. Consider the Prompt
Discuss the relationship between politics and religion by examining the wars of religion. Choose TWO specific examples from the following:
Dutch Revolt
French Wars of Religion
English Civil War
30 Years War

4. Plan your Introduction
2-3 sentences (Introduction)
Talk about the subject of the prompt in general terms
Mention a time period
DO NOT WRITEABOUT SPECIFIC INFORMATION TO ADDRESS THE PROMPT

5. Thesis
What is a thesis?
A proposition stated or put forward for consideration, especially one to be discussed and proved or to be maintained against objections: a subject for a composition or essay.
Your thesis should be placed at the end of the introductory paragraph (THE LAST SENTENCE)

6. “Road Map” Thesis Formula
X. However, because of A, B, C, Y.
X = strongest argument or position against your position
A = First point of argument (category)
B = Second point of argument (category)
C= Third point of argument (category)
Y = Your position (argument)

7. Example of a “Road Map” Thesis
Some argue the relationship between politics and religion was one of separation during the English Civil war and French Wars of Religion. However, because of the tight control over the church instituted by the French government, Queen Elizabeth’s tolerance, and the sharp contrast between the French Catholics and their counterparts (the Huguenots), the relationship between church and state was one of close proximity.

8. Consider the Specificity of the Points (A,B,C)
Each paragraph in the body of the essay must start with a topic sentence that connects to each point (A, B, C)
Topic sentence should be “general” and introduce the topic of your first point of argument
In most cases, you need at least 3 paragraphs for the body of your essay
Each paragraph should consist of at least 8-10 sentences

9. Topic Sentences Need to Connect with the “Road Map” Thesis
General
A B C
Politics Economics Social
Better
The desire for tense relationships class struggle
territorial gain between religions
Too Specific
Edict of Nantes Defenestration of
Prague

10. Example of a Topic Sentence (Point A)
Point A = the tight control over the church instituted by the French government
Topic Sentence – Paragraph 1

11. Now Try it for Yourself
Point B = Queen Elizabeth’s tolerance
Topic Sentence – Paragraph 2
Point C = the sharp contrast between the French Catholics and their counterparts
Topic Sentence – Paragraph 3

12. Conclusion
When writing a conclusion it is important to consider the following:
1. Never introduce new information
2. When in doubt JUST RESTATE YOUR THESIS