How to Write a Long Essay Question (LEQ) for AP Exams

Overview

• LEQs are used in APUSH, AP World, and AP Euro exams.
• Final essay on the exam; 40 minutes to write.
• Questions are from known historical periods.
• Choose the question you're most familiar with.

Steps for Writing an LEQ

Step 1: Read the Prompt

• Thoroughly read and mark up the prompt.
  • Identify and underline the time period.
    • Avoid writing outside of this time period.
  • Identify the historical thinking skill (e.g., causation, comparison).
    • Frame your essay according to this skill.
  • Note the categories for comparison or analysis.

Step 2: Understand the Rubric

• Thesis Point
  • Must be historically defensible and establish a line of reasoning.
  • Use specific evidence to support your thesis.
  • Example: Restate the prompt's important parts because of A and B (specific evidence).
• Contextualization Point
  • Place your thesis in a larger historical context.
  • Write a paragraph with specific historical evidence relevant to the prompt.
• Evidence Points (up to 2 points)
  • 1 point for describing two pieces of evidence.
  • 2 points for supporting an argument with evidence.
  • Include a topic sentence that ties evidence to your thesis.
• Analysis and Reasoning (up to 2 points)
  • Historical reasoning: perform the historical skill (causation, comparison, etc.).
  • Complexity: Use at least four pieces of evidence to show nuanced understanding.
    • Support argument with two pieces; challenge with two pieces.

Tips

• Mark time periods, historical skills, and categories clearly.
• Establish clear line of reasoning in thesis.
• Contextualize with relevant, specific evidence.
• Structure paragraphs to support the thesis with topic sentences and evidence.
• Use multiple pieces of evidence to demonstrate a nuanced understanding of complexity.

Additional Resources

• Consider apsa crem course for more in-depth examples and video explanations for each rubric point.

By following these steps and tips, students can aim to earn a perfect score (6 points) on their LEQ by writing a clear, well-supported, and complex essay.