How to Approach Short Answer Questions (SAQs) for AP History Exams

Introduction

• SAQs in AP World, AP Euro, and APUSH can be challenging.
• Objective: Understand the question and answer using a three-part formula.
• Importance of clarity due to recent changes in scoring.

Types of SAQs

• Two types:
  1. With a stimulus (document/image) followed by three prompts labeled A, B, C.
  2. Without a stimulus, only three prompts.
• Scoring: Usually 1 point per prompt, occasionally 2 if two tasks are required.
• On the exam: Choose and answer 3 out of 4 SAQs.
• Answers: Should be concise (2-3 sentences).

Step 1: Understand the Stimulus and Prompts

• Avoid starting with the stimulus; begin by reading the prompts.
• Mark up the prompts to identify:
  1. Category (e.g., economic development, political development).
  2. Time period (answers must fall within the specified years).
  3. Historical thinking skill (e.g., causation).

Example

• 2022 AP World Exam: Mark economic, political development, time period, and causation.

Step 2: Analyze the Stimulus

• After understanding the prompts, analyze the stimulus to find relevant information.

Step 3: Answering the SAQ

• Use the acronym T-E-A-T:
  1. Topic Sentence: Restate prompt, identify evidence.
  2. Explanation of Evidence: Define the evidence.
  3. Analysis: Show how evidence proves topic sentence.

Example

• AP Euro Exam: Describe intellectual change (e.g., humanism during the Renaissance).
  • Topic sentence: Restate prompt, identify change.
  • Explanation: Define humanism.
  • Analysis: Explain how humanism illustrates change.

Changes in Advice

• Previously: "Identify" prompts required only a topic sentence.
• Now: Even "identify" requires explanation due to inconsistent scoring.
• Recommendation: Always use T-E-A-T to avoid inconsistencies.

Conclusion

• Scoring changes necessitate a thorough approach.
• For additional resources, consider the AP SAQ Cram Course and other writing videos.