How do I improve my history essay writing skills for a source-based question so that I am able to achieve the top band/level?

    Firstly, planning and structure are very much key to your success in a history exam. Ensure that before you begin writing your exam response for a source-based question you have a clear argument in your head and have spent a few minutes planning your answer so that you have a short introduction, two or three main points, and a conclusion in mind. In terms of the actual content of the main paragraphs, you should include information on the provenance of the source, the source’s content, your own knowledge, and your overarching argument.   Furthermore, in order to achieve the best possible grade, the way in which you use your knowledge in relation to the source is incredibly important. You must employ your knowledge to decide whether the source is reliable and if the content is relevant, whilst also ensuring that you are not getting carried away listing the information and facts that you know. Your answer should be based around the argument which you are making rather than telling a story of this particular event, period or time in history. Therefore, specific facts should always be used to back up the point which you are making rather than making generalisations. This will demonstrate to the examiner that you can effectively construct an answer that is both concise and informative; thus, allowing you to gain the marks required for a top-level result.