AP Testing Tips and Tricks

Carson Glen| PHOTOGRAPHER, Bailey Funk | GRAPHIC DESIGNER  

AP tests are just around the corner, and being prepared is important.  The tests will be taking place over the course of two weeks in May: the 5-9 and the 12-16.  Specific times can be found via College Board. Ms. McCormack, an AP Seminar teacher at Anderson, explains the importance of mastering techniques in different subjects.  

“One of the biggest things I think for any class is practice problems… practice the different skills you need to perform for each test,”  Ms. McCormack said.  

Make sure to revisit the material learned towards the beginning of the year, especially as it isn’t as fresh in the mind.

Another tip when preparing for AP tests is to stay motivated.  The hardest part is finding a starting point for studying.  Once you find your groove, it becomes much easier.  

Utilizing available resources is very important to achieve success on the assessments.  For example, attending review sessions offered by instructors and asking questions to clarify anything that is still confusing after reviewing.  

Creating a balance between personal life and AP classes is essential so that stress remains minimal, yet students are ready to excel on their tests.  Sophomore Jack Matthews makes sure to balance his three AP classes, sports, alongside his social life.  

“I make sure I am still hanging out with friends every weekend and also getting work in for sports, whether that be in the gym or on the field,” Jack Matthews (10) said.  

There are strategies to keep in mind during the tests as well: 

• Don’t get stuck on a single question; skip it and come back later.  

• Answer every question logically, using the process of elimination to get rid of as many wrong answers.  Remember to choose the most correct answer.  

• During FRQs (Free Response Questions) and SAQs (Short Answer Questions), writing details that are somewhat relevant earns some points and is better than nothing.  

• Allocate time for each section or task of the test, and make sure to plan out any long essays.  

Most importantly, be confident! You’ve worked toward this the entire year, and it’s an opportunity to show what you know.