Mastering the Complexity Point: The Key to Advanced AP History Essays

Today, we're tackling what many students and teachers consider the most challenging—yet potentially most rewarding—component of both the Document-Based Question (DBQ) and Long Essay Question (LEQ): the complexity point.

What Is the Complexity Point?

The complexity point rewards sophisticated historical thinking. According to the College Board rubric, this point requires:

"Demonstrating a complex understanding of the historical development that is the focus of the prompt, using evidence to corroborate, qualify, or modify an argument that addresses the question."

Notice that this is the only point on the rubric described as demonstrating "complex understanding" rather than simply "demonstrating" something. That's your first clue that this point demands a higher level of thinking.

Why the Complexity Point Matters

Beyond just earning you an extra point, mastering complexity:

• Transforms your essay from "good" to "excellent"

• Demonstrates college-level historical analysis

• Distinguishes your work from the majority of other test-takers

• Prepares you for actual historical thinking beyond the exam

Four Proven Ways to Demonstrate Complexity