How do you structure source based essays?

Source based essays are ones in which your own opinion shouldn't be the predominant aspect of your answer. In the introduction you should briefly identify the main points of each source, without giving away your argument. Then, each paragraph (maybe 3 or 4) should centre on a theme (taken from the essay question) and the student should use all sources to compare and contrast how they do or do not support this theme. The conclusion should be short and concise and sum up why the sources do or do not support the question. 

SJ
Answered by Sophie J. History tutor

19920 Views

See similar History A Level tutors

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

How much did Mary I's marriage to Prince Philip of Spain influence Britain's foreign policy?


Why was the New Economic Policy (NEP) introduced?


To what extent was the Great Terror a result of ecconomic difficulties within the Soviet Union?


Why did Kennedy and Johnson escalate the conflict in Vietnam?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning