Short Answer Questions (SAQs) (College Board AP® US History): Revision Note

How do I answer an APUSH short-answer question (SAQ)?

Understanding what the question requires you to do

The SAQ (Short-Answer Question) values clear, straightforward responses. You don’t need a lengthy essay.

The APUSH exam includes three short-answer questions; some require a stimulus, while others do not.

According to the Course and Exam Description (CED), SAQs can evaluate developments and processes, sourcing, claims and evidence, contextualization, and making connections.

What should I keep in mind?

• Each section typically earns one point

• The aim isn’t to write a long paragraph but to answer specifically what parts a, b, or c ask for, in a precise sentence or two

A straightforward approach for students

• Read each part carefully

• Answer each directly, then add one specific piece of evidence or explanation.

• Keep answers focused and avoid irrelevant details.

A simple strategy

• Answer each part individually

  • This makes it easy for the reader to identify your point

• Begin with a direct answer

  • Then support it with a specific piece of evidence

• Include specific facts

  • Refer to an event, law, person, idea, or movement

• Pay attention to the task word; "describe" differs from “explain”

• Be concise but thorough

  • One strong, clear answer is better than multiple vague sentences

How to avoid common mistakes

• Keep it concise - don’t write a lengthy essay for each part

• Keep parts a, b, and c in separate paragraphs

• Avoid vague responses like “there were many causes”

• Always include evidence

• Always answer all parts; even a brief response can earn points

Helpful sentence starters

• “One reason was …”

• “One effect was …”

• “This happened because …”

• “A key difference was …”

• “An example that supports this is …”

Quick SAQ checklist

• Did I answer each part directly?

• Did I include one specific fact?

• Did I explain something, or just name it?

• Is my response focused on the question?