NHD Student Resources

Annual Student Workbook

Each year we create a workbook that can be used by students to guide them through the whole NHD process. This may be helpful for students working independently on NHD outside of school. Choose the preferred format for the workbook below. Please note that depending on your choice, you will either need to download or make a copy for yourself in order to edit it.

Microsoft Version of Workbook

Google Version of Workbook

Help with NHD Rules

If you think that you will compete at any level of the National History Day competition, it is important that you follow all the official NHD rules.  The sources in this section will help, but you can also contact nchistoryday@dncr.nc.gov if you have any questions or need help understanding a rule.

Choosing a Topic & the Annual Theme

Every year the National History Day program chooses an annual theme to help guide you in your research.  Though you can choose a topic from any time period or geographical location in the world, you must choose one that connects to this annual theme.  It is important to not just choose one that connects, but to show how it connects throughout your project. The resources in this section will help you understand the current year's theme and how to select a strong topic. 

NHD Topic Tip Videos

Choosing a World History Topic

Choosing an Ancient History Topic

Choosing a European History Topic

Choosing a Local History Topic

Resources to Help with Research

The research stage of an NHD topic is the most important step, but can also be the most overwhelming part. The resources in these sections will hopefully help!

What is Wide Research?

What is a Secondary Source?

What is a Primary Source?

NHD Digital Research Quick Tips

Smart Searches

Before your first Google search, watch this quick video for help!

Mining Wikipedia

Though Wikipedia should be used with caution, learn how you can use it wisely for research leads.

Using Google Books

Learn how to find primary and secondary sources through Google Books.

Finding Primary Sources in Secondary Sources

Secondary sources are great ways to find primary sources. Learn how here!

Help with Building Your Argument

What is Historical Context?

When you start building your project, your first step is to explain your topic's historical context. Watch this video for help!

Including Multiple Perspectives

It is important as you present your historical argument that support it with multiple perspectives. Learn how here!

What is Student Voice?

Learn how to present your topic in your own voice and showcase your analysis.

What is Historical Significance?

Historical significance helps you explain the short- and long-term impacts of your topic. Learn more here!

Key Parts of Your Project

Every NHD project requires a process paper and an annotated bibliography.  Learn how to create yours in the videos below.

What is a Process Paper?

Annotated Bibliography Intro

Annotated Bibliography Citations

Annotated Bibliography Annotations