History, the study of the past, is more than just memorizing dates and names. It’s about understanding events, analyzing sources, and constructing arguments. This ebook, “A Pocket Guide to Writing in History,” is your companion in mastering historical writing, covering everything from source evaluation to crafting a compelling research paper.
1. Introduction: Unlocking History’s Secrets
Studying history involves asking insightful questions and developing critical reading skills. Learning to analyze and interpret historical information effectively is the first step toward becoming a proficient writer in history.
1a Asking historical questions
The process of understanding history begins with inquiry. Posing pertinent historical questions sets the stage for effective research and analysis. Why did a particular event occur? What were its consequences? How did people experience it? These questions drive the exploration of historical topics.
1b Developing historical reading skills
Developing strong reading skills is vital for engaging with historical texts. This involves careful attention to detail, understanding context, and recognizing the author’s perspective.
2. Working with Sources: The Historian’s Toolkit
Historical writing relies on a variety of sources, each requiring a specific approach. Understanding the nature and value of different sources is paramount to writing sound historical arguments.
2a Identifying historical sources
Differentiating between primary and secondary sources is the cornerstone of historical research. Recognizing the unique characteristics of each type of source helps researchers build solid arguments.
2a-1 Primary sources
Primary sources are firsthand accounts or original materials from the time period under investigation. Examples include letters, diaries, photographs, government documents, and artifacts. These offer direct insights into the past.
2a-2 Secondary sources
Secondary sources are interpretations or analyses of historical events based on primary sources. These include books, articles, and documentaries that provide commentary and context.
2a-3 Primary or secondary? The changing status of a source
The classification of a source as primary or secondary can change based on how it’s used. For example, a newspaper article from the past is a primary source. An analysis of those articles by a modern scholar makes the article a secondary source.
2a-4 Accessing sources in history
Historical sources are found in various locations, from archives and libraries to online databases and private collections. The ability to locate and access these resources is crucial for research.
2a-5 Uses of primary and secondary sources
Primary sources provide direct evidence and personal perspectives. Secondary sources offer interpretations and broader context. Using both types of sources effectively is essential for a well-rounded historical argument.
2b Evaluating sources
Critical evaluation of sources is essential to determining their reliability and usefulness. Consider the author’s bias, the source’s purpose, and its historical context.
Alt: Examining a historic letter with pen and magnifier, representing primary source analysis in historical research.
Tips for Writers: Questions for Evaluating Text-Based Primary Sources
- Who created the source and what was their background?
- When was the source created and in what context?
- What is the author’s point of view?
- What are the strengths and limitations of the source?
2b-1 Evaluating primary sources
When evaluating primary sources, consider the creator’s perspective, potential biases, and the context in which the source was produced.
Tips for Writers: Questions for Evaluating Nonwritten Primary Sources
- What type of source is it (e.g., photograph, artifact, map)?
- What does the source depict or represent?
- Who created the source and for what purpose?
- What can the source tell us about the past?
2b-2 Evaluating secondary sources
Secondary sources should be evaluated for the author’s expertise, methodology, and potential biases. Examine reviews and citations to assess the source’s credibility.
Tips for Writers: Questions for Evaluating Secondary Sources
- Who is the author and what are their qualifications?
- What is the author’s thesis or argument?
- What sources did the author use to support their argument?
- How does the author’s interpretation compare to other perspectives on the topic?
2b-3 Evaluating online sources
Evaluate online sources carefully. Look for reputable websites, check the author’s credentials, and consider the site’s purpose.
2b-4 Identifying fake news
Be wary of fake news and misinformation. Verify information with multiple credible sources and be skeptical of sensational or unverified claims.
Tips for Writers: Questions for Evaluating Websites
- Who is the author or sponsor of the website?
- What is the purpose of the website (e.g., to inform, persuade, sell)?
- Is the information on the website accurate and well-documented?
- Is the website regularly updated?
3. Writing Short History Assignments
Developing effective writing skills is crucial for completing assignments and communicating historical understanding. This section explores different types of short writing tasks commonly assigned in history courses.
3a Reading actively in history
Engage with historical texts by taking notes, highlighting key passages, and formulating questions. Active reading enhances comprehension and retention.
Tips for Writers: Writing as You Read
- Annotate the text with your thoughts and questions.
- Summarize key points in your own words.
- Identify the author’s main argument and supporting evidence.
- Reflect on how the text relates to other things you have learned.
3b Writing about reading
Writing about reading involves summarizing, analyzing, and synthesizing information from historical texts. These assignments help develop critical thinking and communication skills.
3b-1 Summaries
A summary concisely presents the main points of a text. It should be accurate, objective, and focused on the author’s central argument.
3b-2 Annotated bibliographies
An annotated bibliography includes a list of sources with descriptive and evaluative annotations. This assignment helps organize research and assess the value of different sources.
3c Writing about primary sources
Analyzing primary sources involves interpreting their meaning and significance within their historical context. Assignments may include single-source analyses or comparative papers.
3c-1 Single-source analysis
A single-source analysis focuses on a single primary source, examining its content, context, and significance. This assignment requires close reading and critical thinking.
3c-2 Comparative papers
Comparative papers analyze two or more primary sources, identifying similarities, differences, and patterns. This assignment encourages deeper understanding and nuanced interpretation.
Tips for Writers: Writing a Comparative Essay
- Choose sources that are relevant to your research question.
- Identify key themes or issues that are addressed in both sources.
- Analyze the similarities and differences between the sources.
- Develop a clear thesis statement that explains the significance of your comparison.
3d Writing about secondary sources
Writing about secondary sources involves critiquing, reviewing, and comparing different interpretations of historical events. These assignments help develop analytical and argumentative skills.
3d-1 Critiques and book reviews
A critique or book review evaluates a secondary source, assessing its strengths, weaknesses, and overall contribution to the field. This assignment requires critical thinking and informed judgment.
3d-2 Comparing secondary sources
Comparing secondary sources involves analyzing different interpretations of the same historical event or topic. This assignment encourages students to evaluate competing perspectives and develop their own informed opinion.
3e Writing about film
Analyzing historical films requires attention to both their historical accuracy and their cinematic techniques. Assignments may explore how films represent the past and how they shape our understanding of history.
3f Taking history exams
Preparing for and taking history exams requires a combination of knowledge, analytical skills, and effective test-taking strategies.
3f-1 Preparing for an exam
Effective exam preparation includes reviewing notes, rereading key texts, and practicing essay writing. Organize your study materials and focus on key concepts and arguments.
3f-2 Answering identification questions
Identification questions require brief but precise answers that identify and explain the significance of key terms, people, and events.
3f-3 Taking an essay exam
Essay exams require you to develop a clear thesis, construct a well-supported argument, and write in a clear and concise style.
4. Following Conventions of Writing in History
Writing in history has specific conventions that ensure clarity, accuracy, and credibility. Adhering to these guidelines will strengthen your arguments and enhance your reader’s understanding.
4a Approaching a history assignment
Begin by carefully reading and understanding the assignment instructions. Identify the key questions or themes you need to address and develop a plan for your research and writing.
4b Thinking like a historian
Thinking like a historian means engaging with the past critically and analytically. This involves considering multiple perspectives, evaluating evidence, and constructing reasoned arguments.
4c Developing a thesis
A thesis statement is a concise statement of your main argument. It should be clear, focused, and arguable.
4d Constructing an argument
A strong historical argument is supported by evidence from primary and secondary sources. It should be logical, well-reasoned, and persuasive.
Tips for Writers: Testing your Thesis
- Is your thesis clear and concise?
- Is it arguable?
- Can you support it with evidence?
- Does it address the key questions or themes of the assignment?
4d-1 Supporting your thesis
Use evidence from your sources to support your thesis. Cite your sources accurately and explain how they support your argument.
4d-2 Responding to counterevidence and anticipating opposing viewpoints
Acknowledge and address counterevidence or opposing viewpoints. This demonstrates intellectual honesty and strengthens your argument.
4e Drafting your paper
Drafting involves putting your ideas into writing. Focus on developing your argument and supporting it with evidence.
4e-1 Drafting an introduction
Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention, introduce your topic, and state your thesis.
4e-2 Organizing your paper
Organize your paper logically, using clear headings and subheadings. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea and support your overall argument.
4e-3 Writing clear and connected paragraphs
Write clear and concise paragraphs that flow logically from one to the next. Use transition words and phrases to connect your ideas.
4e-4 Writing an effective conclusion
Your conclusion should summarize your main points, restate your thesis in a new way, and leave the reader with a lasting impression.
4f Revising for content and organization
Revising involves rereading your paper and making changes to improve its content, organization, and clarity.
Alt: Revising a document on a computer, representing the critical process of editing content and structure in writing.
Tips for Writers: Revising for Content and Organization
- Does your paper have a clear thesis statement?
- Is your argument well-supported by evidence?
- Is your paper organized logically?
- Are your paragraphs clear and concise?
4g Editing for style and grammar
Editing involves correcting errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. It also involves refining your writing style to make it more clear and concise.
Tips for Writers: Common Grammatical Errors (and How to Avoid Them)
- Subject-verb agreement
- Pronoun agreement
- Misplaced modifiers
- Comma splices
- Run-on sentences
4g-1 Choosing appropriate language
Use language that is clear, precise, and appropriate for your audience. Avoid jargon and slang.
4g-2 Choosing the appropriate tense
Use the past tense to describe historical events. Use the present tense to discuss the arguments of historians.
4g-3 Using active voice
Use active voice whenever possible. Active voice makes your writing more direct and engaging.
4g-4 Knowing when to use the pronouns I, me, and you
Use I and me sparingly. Avoid using you in formal writing.
5. Writing a Research Paper
A research paper is a substantial piece of writing that requires in-depth research, critical analysis, and clear communication.
5a Moving from topic to research question
The first step in writing a research paper is to choose a topic and develop a research question.
5a-1 Choosing a topic
Choose a topic that interests you and that is manageable in scope.
5a-2 Focusing on a research question
A research question is a specific question that your paper will address. It should be clear, focused, and arguable.
5b Developing a research plan
A research plan outlines the steps you will take to research and write your paper.
5c Conducting research
Research involves gathering information from a variety of sources.
5c-1 Consulting human resources
Consult with librarians, professors, and other experts who can help you with your research.
5c-2 Using a library’s online catalog
Use the library’s online catalog to find books, articles, and other resources.
5c-3 Using print and electronic reference sources
Use print and electronic reference sources to find background information and specific facts.
5c-4 Locating primary sources
Locate primary sources in archives, libraries, and online databases.
5c-5 Locating secondary sources
Locate secondary sources through library catalogs, databases, and online search engines.
5c-6 Finding internet sources
Find internet sources using search engines and online directories.
Tips for Writers: Electronic Databases
- Learn how to use different databases effectively.
- Use keywords to narrow your search.
- Evaluate the credibility of sources found in databases.
5c-7 Distinguishing among electronic sources
Distinguish between scholarly and popular sources, and evaluate the credibility of online sources.
5d Taking effective research notes
Take clear and organized notes as you conduct your research.
5e Developing a working thesis
Develop a working thesis that you can refine as you continue your research.
5f Making an outline
Create an outline to organize your ideas and plan the structure of your paper.
5g Revising and editing your paper
Revise and edit your paper carefully to ensure that it is clear, concise, and well-supported.
6. Plagiarism: What It Is and How to Avoid It
Plagiarism is the act of presenting someone else’s work as your own. It is a serious academic offense.
6a What is plagiarism?
Plagiarism includes copying text, paraphrasing without attribution, and submitting work that you did not create.
6b Avoiding plagiarism
Avoid plagiarism by citing your sources accurately and paraphrasing carefully.
6b-1 Citing sources to avoid plagiarism
Cite your sources using footnotes, endnotes, or a bibliography.
6b-2 Paraphrasing to avoid plagiarism
Paraphrase carefully to avoid plagiarism. Put the author’s ideas into your own words and cite the source.
Tips for Writers: Avoiding Plagiarism
- Take careful notes and keep track of your sources.
- When in doubt, cite your source.
- Use plagiarism detection software to check your work.
6b-3 Downloading internet sources carefully to avoid plagiarism
Be careful when downloading information from the internet. Cite your sources accurately and avoid copying and pasting without attribution.
6c Plagiarism and the internet
Plagiarism is just as serious online as it is in print.
7. Quoting and Documenting Sources
Quoting and documenting sources are essential for academic writing. They allow you to support your arguments and give credit to the original authors.
7a Using quotations
Use quotations sparingly and only when the author’s words are particularly powerful or important.
7a-1 When to quote
Quote when the author’s words are particularly vivid or when you want to emphasize a key point.
7a-2 How to quote
Use quotation marks to indicate that you are quoting someone else’s words. Cite the source accurately.
7b Documenting sources
Document your sources using footnotes, endnotes, or a bibliography.
7b-1 Footnotes and endnotes
Footnotes and endnotes are used to cite sources within the text of your paper.
7b-2 Bibliography
A bibliography is a list of all the sources you used in your paper.
7b-3 Documenting nonwritten materials
Document nonwritten materials such as photographs, films, and interviews.
7c Documentation models
Use a consistent documentation style, such as Chicago, MLA, or APA.
7c-1 Formatting guidelines for footnotes and endnotes
Follow the formatting guidelines for footnotes and endnotes.
7c-2 Formatting guidelines for bibliographies
Follow the formatting guidelines for bibliographies.
7c-3 Models for notes and bibliography entries
Use models for notes and bibliography entries to ensure that your citations are accurate and complete.
7d Sample pages from a student research paper
Review sample pages from a student research paper to see how to properly quote and document sources.
This ebook provides you with a comprehensive guide to writing in history, helping you to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in your history courses. By mastering these techniques, you’ll not only excel in your academic pursuits but also cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of the past.
