AP history classes worry about writing more than most history classes. But we really should do more writing in history class, both as a tool to learn about history in the past, and as an exercise in actually writing history.
Searching for something else, I stumbled on a guide published by thBoston University’s Department of History. It’s not dull at all, but lively, and therefore quite useful, even though it starts out in French:
Raison d’être
Good, clear writing is, for most historians and professional writers, more of a process than a God-given talent. It begins with a blank piece of paper (or computer screen) and ends with a clearly organized and persuasive argument
in the form of a research paper, a published article, or a book manuscript.History as a discipline is in its essence the discovery and interpretation of signs of the past as well as conventions of how to cite such evidence. It thus combines research (the search for historical evidence) and the organization of data into a convincing argument. Historical writing is one variety of written expression which seeks to inform and persuade the reader through the use of evidence organized around a central thesis or argument. Good historical writing is not merely description, though it may employ illustrations and appeals to the reader’s imagination.
AP history teachers may find it useful for their classes. Students working on National History Day projects may find it useful. You may find it fun to read. Check it out: Boston University Department of History Writing Guide (in .pdf).
Posted by Ed Darrell 
