How should I answer a 10 Mark history essay question during an exam?

From my experience, when answering a ten mark question, especially during the exam, a key factor is do not overwrite, but put emphasis on quality over quantity during your answer. Most importantly stick to the PEEL technique.

A common answer that would get towards the higher bands of the mark scheme. Scoring nine or ten marks, will have all these relevent qualities. Firstly set out two key points you want to portray in your answer. For instance if your question is how did Hitler come to power in Germany? An example of what i would do, would be: One point would be the impact of the great depression and the secound point would be the politcal intrique within Germany. This would be your outline for the question. When approaching both points always start your point by linking it back to the question. For example one reason why Hitler came to power was the impact of the Great depression in 1929. This would already get you a mark. Then go into a bit of detail of why your point is important, this is were youd supply your explanation and evidence. For instance the Great depression saw Germany plunge into economic crisis and saw, six million unemployed by 1933. Many turned against the constitutional government and sought a more strong German leadership. With the Nazi party by July 1932 becoming the number one party in the Reichstag with, 230 seats. Showcasing a significant rise from the 12 seats they recieved in the 1928 elections. To show how much the public opinion had changed as a result of the Great Depression. A point link this would quite easily get anywhere between 3-5 marks, therefore a second point of similar quality would guarentee you 8 marks in a 10 mark essay question.