AP World History: Modern

Advanced Placement World History: Modern examining global developments from 1200 CE to present.

The Rise and Expansion of Empires (1200–1450)Transregional Interactions and Trade NetworksRevolutions and Transformations (1750–1900)
Imperialism and Its Global ImpactGlobal Conflicts and World WarsModern Globalization and Technological Change
Analyzing Primary and Secondary SourcesMaking Historical ArgumentsConnecting the Past to the Present
Mastering the DBQ (Document-Based Question)Effective Time Management on the Exam
The Rise and Expansi...Transregional Intera...Revolutions and Tran...Imperialism and Its ...Global Conflicts and...Modern Globalization...Analyzing Primary an...Making Historical Ar...Connecting the Past ...Mastering the DBQ (D...Effective Time Manag...
Study Strategies

Mastering the DBQ (Document-Based Question)

Conquering the DBQ Essay

The Document-Based Question (DBQ) is a major part of the AP World History exam. It asks you to analyze a set of sources and write an argumentative essay based on them.

Steps to Success

  • Read the prompt and documents carefully.
  • Group documents by themes or viewpoints.
  • Develop a clear thesis and use evidence from the sources.
  • Address context, point of view, and bias in your writing.

Practice Makes Perfect

The more DBQs you practice, the easier it gets!

Examples

  • Grouping documents about imperialism by economic vs. political motives.

  • Identifying the author's perspective in a historical letter.

Next
Effective Time Management on the Exam