How To Write a DBQ Conclusion: Mastering the Final Impression

The Document-Based Question (DBQ) is a cornerstone of many history courses, testing your ability to analyze primary source documents and construct a reasoned argument. While the body paragraphs, filled with evidence and analysis, often steal the spotlight, the conclusion is the crucial final impression. It’s where you synthesize your findings, reiterate your thesis, and leave the reader with a lasting understanding of your argument. This guide will break down the process of writing a compelling DBQ conclusion, helping you elevate your essays and achieve top marks.

The Importance of a Strong DBQ Conclusion

Why bother crafting a dedicated conclusion? Isn’t the main work done in the body? Absolutely not. The conclusion serves several vital purposes:

• Reinforces Your Thesis: It reminds the reader of your central argument and reinforces its validity.
• Synthesizes Information: It draws together the threads of your analysis, showing how your evidence supports your overall claim.
• Provides Closure: It signals the end of your essay and leaves the reader with a sense of completion.
• Demonstrates Understanding: A well-crafted conclusion shows that you grasp the broader historical context and the significance of your argument.
• Elevates Your Score: A strong conclusion can significantly boost your grade, especially in scoring rubrics that prioritize holistic understanding.

Deconstructing the Components: What to Include in Your Conclusion

A successful DBQ conclusion typically includes a few key elements, skillfully woven together.

Restating Your Thesis (But Not Just Repeating It)

This is the cornerstone. Don’t simply copy and paste your thesis statement from the introduction. Instead, rephrase your thesis in a fresh and insightful way. Summarize your main argument, but do so with the benefit of the analysis you’ve already provided. Show how the evidence you presented has proven your initial claim. For example, if your thesis was about the impact of the printing press, your concluding thesis restatement should reflect the specific evidence used to support that impact.

Summarizing Key Supporting Evidence

Briefly recap the most crucial pieces of evidence you used to support your argument. This isn’t a rehash of your body paragraphs; it’s a concise summary of the most compelling evidence. Focus on the documents that were most critical to your analysis and the key insights they provided. Think of it as a highlights reel of your argument.

Synthesizing Your Findings: Connecting the Dots

This is where you show the true power of your analysis. Go beyond simply listing evidence; synthesize the information to demonstrate how the different pieces of evidence fit together to support your overall claim. Show the relationships between the documents and how they contribute to your understanding of the historical event or period. This requires critical thinking and a clear grasp of historical context.

Broader Context and Historical Significance

This is where you elevate your essay from a simple recitation of facts to a nuanced historical analysis. Place your argument within a broader historical context. Consider the significance of your findings. Why does your argument matter? What were the long-term consequences or implications of the historical event you explored? This shows a deeper understanding of the material.

Avoid Common Mistakes: Pitfalls to Sidestep

Certain errors can undermine even the most carefully crafted conclusion.

• Introducing New Information: Never introduce new evidence or arguments in your conclusion. This should be a summary and synthesis, not a place for new revelations.
• Ignoring the Prompt: Make sure your conclusion directly addresses the question posed by the DBQ. Don’t go off on tangents.
• Being Vague or General: Avoid sweeping generalizations or overly broad statements. Be specific and grounded in the evidence you presented.
• Repeating Body Paragraphs: Don’t simply rewrite your body paragraphs. Summarize and synthesize.
• Apologizing or Weakening Your Argument: Avoid phrases like “In conclusion, I think…” or “This might be true…” Be confident in your analysis.

Crafting a Powerful Conclusion: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s break down the process of writing a compelling conclusion into manageable steps.

1. Review Your Essay: Before you start writing, reread your introduction and body paragraphs. Refresh your memory of your thesis and the key evidence you used.
2. Rephrase Your Thesis: Write a new version of your thesis statement that reflects the insights gained from your analysis.
3. Summarize Key Evidence: Identify and summarize the most important pieces of evidence used to support your argument.
4. Synthesize Your Findings: Explain how the evidence connects and supports your thesis. Show the relationships between the documents.
5. Provide Broader Context: Explain the historical significance of your argument, placing it within a larger context.
6. Write a Concise and Compelling Conclusion: Combine all the above elements into a cohesive and well-written paragraph or two.
7. Proofread and Revise: Always proofread your conclusion (and the entire essay) for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Examples of Effective DBQ Conclusion Strategies

Let’s look at some examples of how to structure and phrase your conclusion:

• The “Echoing Thesis” Approach: Start by echoing your thesis with a slightly different phrasing. Then, succinctly summarize the key evidence used to support it, and conclude by explaining the broader implications of your argument.
• The “Synthesis and Significance” Approach: Briefly restate your thesis, then synthesize your findings by highlighting the relationships between documents. Finally, explain the historical significance of your argument and its impact on the larger context.
• The “Looking Forward/Looking Back” Approach: Briefly restate your thesis, summarize the evidence, and then look back at the historical situation you have written about. You can also look forward to the consequences of the situation.

Refine Your Approach: Tips for Success

Here are some additional tips to help you write outstanding DBQ conclusions.

• Practice: The more DBQs you write, the better you’ll become at crafting effective conclusions.
• Analyze Model Essays: Read high-scoring DBQ essays to see how other students have successfully structured their conclusions.
• Seek Feedback: Ask your teacher or classmates to review your conclusions and provide constructive criticism.
• Focus on Clarity: Ensure your conclusion is clear, concise, and easy to understand.
• Be Confident: Believe in your argument and present your findings with conviction.

Frequently Asked Questions About DBQ Conclusions

How long should a DBQ conclusion be?

A DBQ conclusion should be concise, typically spanning one to two paragraphs, depending on the essay’s length and complexity. The goal is to summarize, synthesize, and provide broader context without being overly verbose.

What if I don’t have enough space to write a comprehensive conclusion?

Even with limited space, you can still write an effective conclusion. Focus on the core elements: restate your thesis, briefly summarize key evidence, and briefly explain the broader significance. Prioritize clarity and conciseness.

Can I use direct quotes in my conclusion?

While it’s generally not necessary, you can include a short, impactful quote from a document if it perfectly encapsulates your argument. However, prioritize your own analysis and synthesis.

Is it okay to make my own opinion known in my conclusion?

A DBQ requires you to analyze historical evidence and form a reasoned argument based on the documents. While your opinion should be supported by evidence, avoid subjective statements.

How can I make my conclusion stand out from the others?

Go beyond the basics. Demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the historical context, providing a fresh perspective or offering a nuanced interpretation. Show that you can make connections and draw meaningful conclusions.

Conclusion: Mastering the Final Word

Writing a strong DBQ conclusion is an essential skill for any history student. By restating your thesis, summarizing key evidence, synthesizing your findings, and providing broader context, you can craft a conclusion that reinforces your argument, demonstrates your understanding, and leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Remember to avoid common pitfalls, practice your writing, and seek feedback to refine your skills. With practice and a solid understanding of these principles, you can master the art of the DBQ conclusion and elevate your essays to the next level.