How to Write LEQ: A Step-by-Step Guide for Success
Learning how to write LEQ (Long Essay Question) responses is crucial for students taking AP history exams. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from understanding the LEQ format to crafting a high-scoring response. Whether you’re preparing for AP US History, AP World History, or AP European History, mastering how to write LEQ essays will significantly boost your exam performance.
Table of Contents
- Understanding the LEQ Format
- Breaking Down the LEQ Rubric
- Prewriting Strategies for LEQ
- LEQ Structure and Organization
- Writing the LEQ Step-by-Step
- Pro Tips for LEQ Success
Understanding the LEQ Format
The LEQ (Long Essay Question) is a key component of AP history exams, designed to assess your ability to construct a historical argument using evidence. Unlike the DBQ (Document-Based Question), the LEQ doesn’t provide specific documents, requiring you to draw entirely on your own knowledge.
Key Characteristics of LEQ
- Time limit: Typically 35-40 minutes
- Length: About 2-3 well-developed paragraphs
- Content: Requires historical reasoning skills
- Focus: One of four historical reasoning processes (causation, comparison, continuity/change, periodization)
Breaking Down the LEQ Rubric
Understanding the LEQ rubric is essential for writing a high-scoring response. The rubric evaluates your essay across several categories:
LEQ Scoring Criteria
- Thesis/Claim (1 point): Must respond to the prompt with a historically defensible claim
- Contextualization (1 point): Situates the argument within broader historical context
- Evidence (2 points): Provides specific examples to support argument
- Analysis and Reasoning (2 points): Demonstrates historical thinking skills
Prewriting Strategies for LEQ
Effective LEQ writing begins with solid prewriting. Spending 5-10 minutes planning can dramatically improve your essay’s quality.
Effective Prewriting Techniques
- Analyze the prompt: Identify the historical reasoning skill required
- Brainstorm evidence: Jot down relevant facts, events, and concepts
- Develop a thesis: Create a clear, arguable claim that addresses all parts of the question
- Outline your essay: Plan your paragraphs and main points
LEQ Structure and Organization
A well-structured LEQ follows a clear organizational pattern that makes your argument easy to follow.
Recommended LEQ Structure
- Introduction: Context + thesis statement
- Body Paragraph 1: First main point with supporting evidence
- Body Paragraph 2: Second main point with supporting evidence
- Conclusion: Restate thesis and connect to broader context
Writing the LEQ Step-by-Step
Now let’s break down how to write LEQ responses section by section.
Writing the Introduction
Your introduction should:
- Provide historical context (1-2 sentences)
- Present a clear thesis statement that responds directly to the prompt
- Outline your main arguments if space permits
Developing Body Paragraphs
Each body paragraph should:
- Start with a topic sentence that connects to your thesis
- Include specific historical evidence (names, dates, events)
- Provide analysis explaining how the evidence supports your argument
- Use transitions to connect ideas
Crafting the Conclusion
Your conclusion should:
- Briefly restate your thesis (in different words)
- Connect your argument to broader historical developments
- Avoid introducing new information
Pro Tips for LEQ Success
These advanced strategies will help you master how to write LEQ responses that earn top scores.
Time Management Strategies
- 5 minutes: Analyze prompt and prewrite
- 25 minutes: Write your essay
- 5 minutes: Review and edit
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Writing a vague or off-topic thesis
- Including irrelevant historical information
- Failing to provide specific evidence
- Neglecting to analyze the evidence
Conclusion: Mastering the LEQ
Learning how to write LEQ responses effectively takes practice, but by following this structured approach, you’ll be well-prepared for your AP history exam. Remember to focus on developing a strong thesis, supporting it with specific evidence, and demonstrating your historical reasoning skills. With consistent practice using these techniques, you’ll be able to tackle any LEQ prompt with confidence.
Ready to practice your LEQ skills? Try writing timed responses using past AP exam prompts, and have your teacher or peers evaluate them using the official rubric.