Introduction: Master the 20-Marker

Welcome! If you are preparing for Paper 2 Part (b), you are tackling the most valuable part of the Outline Study paper. While Part (a) asks you to explain why something happened, Part (b) is worth 20 marks and asks you to weigh up different ideas and reach a final decision. Think of yourself as a judge in a courtroom: you need to listen to both sides of the story before deciding which one is more convincing.

In this chapter, we will break down how to build a balanced argument, how to look at alternative perspectives, and—most importantly—how to make a "comparative judgement" that earns those top marks.

Note: For help with the 10-mark "Explain why" questions, see the chapter: Causal explanation: "Explain why" (Paper 2 Part (a)).

1. Understanding the Question

In the exam, Part (b) questions usually start with specific phrases. These are called command phrases, and they are your signal that you need to provide a balanced argument. According to the syllabus, you will see phrases like:

  • "To what extent...?"
  • "How far do you agree...?"
  • "How successful was...?"
  • "How far was [Factor X] the key factor/main reason...?"

The Golden Rule: If a question asks "How far?", you cannot just agree with the statement. You must look at the "extent" to which it is true and the "extent" to which it is not.

2. The Three Pillars of a Great Response

To succeed in Paper 2 Part (b), your essay needs three main ingredients. The examiners call these AO1 (Knowledge) and AO2 (Analysis and Judgement). At AS Level, these are weighted 50/50, so your facts and your thinking are equally important!

Pillar 1: The Given Perspective (The "Yes" Side)

This is where you explain the perspective mentioned in the question. If the question asks, "How far was the 1905 Revolution in Russia caused by economic problems?", your first task is to provide a clear argument for why economic problems were indeed a cause. Use specific historical knowledge (dates, names, events) to support this.

Pillar 2: Alternative Perspectives (The "No" or "However" Side)

A high-level historian always considers the other side. This is where you bring in alternative factors. Using the same Russia example, you might argue that political factors (like the Tsar’s refusal to share power) or the impact of the Russo-Japanese War were also crucial causes. This shows you understand the complexity of history.

Pillar 3: Comparative Judgement (The Final Verdict)

This is often the hardest part for students, but it's where the top marks live! You must compare the factors. Don't just say, "Both were important." Instead, tell the examiner which factor was the most significant and why. Does one factor explain why the other factors happened? If so, that is your "key" factor.

3. Step-by-Step: How to Write the Essay

Don't worry if this seems tricky at first. Following a simple structure will help you stay on track.

Step 1: The "Mini" Introduction

Keep it brief! State clearly that while the given factor (e.g., the League of Nations' weaknesses) was important, other factors (e.g., the Great Depression) also played a major role. State your overall "judgement" right at the start.

Step 2: Build the Argument (2-3 Paragraphs)

Focus on the factor mentioned in the prompt. Use the PEEL method:
• Point: Start with a clear topic sentence.
• Evidence: Add specific facts (AO1).
• Explanation: Explain how these facts prove the point (AO2).
• Link: Link back to the question ("This shows that economic problems were a major cause because...").

Step 3: Provide the Alternative (2-3 Paragraphs)

Use words like "On the other hand," or "However, it could also be argued that...". Introduce different reasons or viewpoints that challenge the prompt. Again, use specific facts to back these up.

Step 4: The Conclusion (The Judgement)

This is your final "weighing up." Summarize your main points, but finish with a strong, clear answer to the "How far?" question. Tip: Try to explain the relationship between the factors. (e.g., "While economic problems created the tension, it was the Tsar's personal leadership style that ultimately made revolution inevitable.")

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best students can fall into these traps. Keep an eye out for them!

  • The "Fact Dump": Describing everything you know about a topic without answering the specific question. Every fact must be used to build an argument.
  • The "One-Sided" Essay: Only agreeing with the prompt. You must provide alternative perspectives to reach the higher mark bands.
  • Sitting on the Fence: Ending with "In conclusion, all factors were equally important." The examiner wants to see you make a choice and justify it.
  • Losing Focus: Forgetting the time period. If the question is about 1919–1929, don't spend half your essay talking about 1935!

5. Quick Review: Checklist for Success

Before you finish your practice essay, ask yourself these questions:

✓ Have I addressed the specific factor named in the question?
✓ Have I included at least two alternative perspectives?
✓ Is 50% of my answer "Analysis" (explaining why) rather than just "Knowledge" (facts)?
✓ Does my conclusion make a clear judgement on "how far"?
Did you know?

In History Paper 2, you are expected to answer two questions from your chosen section (European, American, or International). Each question has a Part (a) and a Part (b). Managing your time is key—aim for about 30–35 minutes for each Part (b) essay!

Key Takeaway: Paper 2 Part (b) is about balance. Show the examiner you know the facts, show them you understand different viewpoints, and then show them you can think like a historian by picking the most important factor.