10: Start studying now
One of the biggest mistakes students make when preparing for AP exams is starting too late. Many AP classes follow a full-year curriculum, and giving yourself only a week, or less, is not enough time to review the material. The more time you allow yourself to study, the better prepared you will be.
9: Take official practice tests in AP Classroom
AP Classroom is a valuable tool when studying for AP exams. It provides practice questions and past free-response questions aligned with the exam. Using these resources can help you become familiar with the format and expectations of the test.
8: Review AP scoring guidelines
AP Classroom also provides scoring guidelines from previous exams. Reviewing these rubrics can help you understand how responses are evaluated and what graders are looking for.
7: Use YouTube for review and study tips
Many students find helpful strategies and explanations through YouTube videos. There are creators who cover nearly every AP subject and provide content reviews and study tips. For example, Heimler’s History offers unit-by-unit reviews for AP history courses that many students find helpful.
6: Learn the format of multiple-choice and free-response sections
Most AP exams follow a consistent structure, typically including a multiple-choice section and a free-response section. Understanding the format of each section ahead of time can make it easier to navigate during the exam.
5: Focus on weak areas
Identify the units or topics you struggled with throughout the year and prioritize reviewing those areas. You are more likely to forget material you found difficult originally, so spending extra time on those topics can improve your overall performance.
4: Memorize key vocabulary and terms
For many AP exams, especially courses like AP Psychology, knowing key terms can make a significant difference. Strong vocabulary can help with both multiple-choice questions and free-response answers.
3: Take a full-length practice test
Taking a full-length practice exam can help you adjust to the pacing and structure of the test. It also allows you to identify areas where you still need improvement.
2: Set simple, realistic goals
Setting manageable study goals can improve consistency. For example, if you set a goal of studying for 3 hours every single night, you probably won’t end up doing it and will be disappointed in yourself. Instead, if you set a goal of studying for 30 minutes a few times a week, you will be more motivated to actually complete your goal, and will feel more prepared in the end.
1: Go easy on yourself
AP exams are designed to be challenging, and a perfect score is not necessary to succeed. Focus on doing your best with what you know and maintaining confidence throughout the process.
