Understanding the AP Euro Long Essay Question (LEQ)

The Long Essay Question (LEQ) on the AP European History exam is a crucial component of your final score. It evaluates your ability to construct a well-developed argument, apply historical reasoning, and support your thesis with evidence. Understanding how to approach and excel in this section can significantly enhance your overall performance.

Breaking Down the LEQ Rubric

The LEQ is scored based on a specific rubric that outlines the criteria necessary for a high score. Familiarizing yourself with these criteria is essential. The rubric generally encompasses four main components: a thesis or claim, contextualization, evidence, and analysis or reasoning.

1. **Thesis or Claim**: Your thesis must be a clear, concise statement that addresses the prompt and lays the groundwork for your argument. It should be historically defensible and provide a roadmap for your essay.

2. **Contextualization**: This involves situating your argument within a broader historical context. Demonstrating an understanding of the time period and relevant events or trends is key to scoring well in this area.

3. **Evidence**: Using specific evidence to support your thesis is crucial. This can