How should you approach a history source-based question?

Often with source-based questions you're required to argue one source is more "valuable" or "reliable" in helping you to understand a certain subject. Therefore it should come as no surprise that you should focus closely on the information that contextualises the source; who they are (their position, political affiliation, rank), when or where they said it (who was the audience, does this influence what they are saying), the date they said it (is it a contemporary source or retrospective). Considering these details, what points does the source make relating to the question being asked- does this present reality, an exaggeration, or a fallacy? Working through methodically will, ultimately, allow you to write an informed conclusion about which source is indeed more valuable, and summerise why it is more valuable.

AB
Answered by Adam B. History tutor

5330 Views

See similar History A Level tutors

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

‘Henry’s treatment of his sons was a more important cause of the Great Rebellion than his baronial policy.’


How can I get the best mark in an A-Level History long answer essay?


Outline the reasons for which the charge that ‘he must tax food’ was problematic for Chamberlain’s Tariff Reform campaign?


What variables dictated the position of women in English society during the period 1066-1330?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences