DBQ

DBQ is an acronym that stands for "Document-Based Question." It is a type of essay question commonly used in standardized tests, particularly in the United States, to assess students' ability to analyze and interpret historical documents. The DBQ format typically involves providing students with a set of primary and secondary source documents related to a specific historical event, issue, or theme. Students are then required to write an essay that addresses a prompt based on these documents.

The purpose of a DBQ is to encourage critical thinking, historical analysis, and the ability to synthesize information from multiple sources. The essay usually consists of an introduction, a body with analysis of the documents, and a conclusion. The introduction sets the context for the essay and the historical question being addressed. The body of the essay involves a detailed analysis of the documents, where students discuss the significance of the documents, their historical context, and how they relate to the prompt. The conclusion summarizes the main points and provides a final interpretation or answer to the historical question.

DBQs are designed to be challenging and time-consuming, often taking up to an hour to complete. They are used in various standardized tests, including the SAT, ACT, and Advanced Placement (AP) exams. The format is intended to simulate the kind of historical research and analysis that historians and scholars engage in, making it a valuable tool for assessing students' historical literacy and analytical skills.