Preparing for AP exams

By Mary Nugent, 2024

Published 4/25/23

That time of year is coming around again, and AP exams are just around the corner. AP classes are a massive responsibility to take on, and it can seem impossible to find a place to start studying for the exam. Here are a few helpful tips when preparing for your exams:

Make a plan and start early. 

In order to get ahead on your studying, about a month before the exam lay out a plan for when you will study a certain material, chapter, unit, etc. Then plan how you will study, which could be in the form of flashcards, quizzes, study groups, or re-reading material or notes. Creating a schedule helps you to manage your time and make sure you cover all the necessary material. 

Make a study group.

Study groups are one of the most effective study methods for AP exams. Create a small group of friends or peers that you know will be able to focus and not get distracted easily. Meeting with these study groups one or two times a week for about a month before the exam to quiz each other can get you thinking of a page and help you cover more material. 

Utilize your resources.

There are many resources available at your school to help you prepare for an AP exam, including your teachers. Many teachers hold reviews or do practice exams leading up to the actual test. Take advantage of these, try as best as you can, and ask lots of questions to clarify any uncertainties. There are also resources such as AP book drives, your school library, and online resources which help as well. Teachers or past AP students may be able to point you in the direction of youtube channels that review materials and techniques to help you prepare. There are also online practice tests that can be easily accessed.

Take care of your body.

While studying enough is important, you also need to be physically prepared to take the AP exams. During the week leading up to the test, make sure you get about eight hours of sleep a night, drink plenty of water, and maintain healthy eating habits. Don’t overwork yourself to the point of exhaustion, because this could hurt you more than help you. The morning of your exam, make sure you have a healthy, filling breakfast and stay calm. If you have studied your material thoroughly, there is no need to stress, just focus on your strengths and the material you have been mastering.