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

19685 Views

See similar History A Level tutors

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why did the Arab Conquests succeed?


How to correctly answer "To what extent" questions?


How should I tackle an essay question to receive top marks?


'The success of the Conservatives in the period 1886-1905 was the result of the Liberals' failures.' Assess the validity of this view.


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