What is the best way to approach analysing a historical source?

Firstly it is important to cover the who, what, when and where of the source to gain a better understanding. Next, the content of the source should be picked apart to find the true point of it. This should help you begin to form an answer to whatever type of question you have been given.  All of these things will affect the bias of the source and its content; this is where you begin to come onto the 'why' and a good analysis of the 'why' can give you a much more advanced answer. 

It is important to remember not to just state that the author of the source is biased, almost all sources are to an extent biased. Instead, use all of the information you have gathered about the source to discuss how this, potentially biased source, can aid your understanding of the period or topic you are studying. 

JV

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

The success of the civil rights movement in the years 1947 to 1957 was dependent on the NAACP [National Association for the Advancement of Colored People]? (past exam question)


To what extent did the Norman Invasion influence Scotland?


How do I answer a questions that begin with "To what extent"?


How do you answer a ‘how far do you agree with the statement’ question?