How can I prepare for critical analysis before starting a history degree?
Prepare by reading a range of accessible historical sources and practising how to identify an author’s argument, evidence, assumptions, context and limitations. Compare different interpretations of the same event, write short evidence-based responses, and learn basic referencing. Reviewing chronology and improving clear, structured writing can also help.
Key points
- Distinguish primary sources from later historians’ interpretations, and ask who produced a source, for what purpose and in what context.
- Keep notes that separate factual claims, quotations, your own analysis and questions for further research.
- Practise weighing conflicting evidence rather than treating a source as completely objective or dismissing it without explanation.
Things to check
- Reading lists, referencing conventions and preparatory expectations vary by university and course, so check the official course information if available.