1. How to be successful in a few easy steps.
Writing DBQs
How to be successful in a few easy steps.

2. What Is a DBQ?
An essay question that asks you to take a position on an issue that has several possible answers.
No “right” or “correct” response
You must craft a thesis based on your own knowledge and your interpretation of the evidence presented

3. DBQ Documents Charts, graphs, and maps Newspaper articles/editorials
Speeches
Letters
Diaries
Laws
Treaties
Executive orders
Editorial cartoons

4. Read the question carefully, then think about the following:
What is the essence of the question?
Is it a yes/no, “to what extent,” or “compare and contrast” question?
Does it have more than one part?
Are there bullets provided?
Is there a choice of responses?

5. How to cite a source within the essay
Herbert Hoover, in his 1932 Republican Party Presidential Nomination Speech, stated, “Two courses were open to us” (Document 4).
Herbert Hoover stated, “Two courses were open to us” (Herbert Hoover 1932 Republican Party Presidential Nomination Speech Document 4).

6. Steps to Success
1. Read all of the questions related to the documents first. Pay particular attention to the writing prompt/question.
2. Examine the writing rubric to see how you are going to be scored.
3. Examine the documents carefully.
4. Use specific information/quotes from each document in your answers.
5. Incorporate information from all relevant documents in your answer.
6.After you have written your answer, revise your work using the rubric to guide you.