Historical skills · Both
History Essay Technique
Strong history essays answer the question directly, use precise knowledge, and reach a judgement – they do not dump everything you revised.
Structure
1. **Brief intro** – line of argument
2. **Paragraphs** – point, evidence, explanation, link to question
3. **Conclusion** – answer the question; no new random facts
For “how far” / “main reason” questions, weigh factors and decide.
Common weaknesses
• Narrative with no argument
• No specific dates, names or acts
• Ignoring the second half of a statement question
• Conclusion that merely repeats the intro word-for-word
Practice questions
1. What belongs in a history conclusion?
2. What makes evidence ‘precise’?