Top 21 Hints for Writing AP Free Response Essay Questions

1. Read the Free-Response Essay Questions 3 times slowly.

2. Write in complete sentences. No one-word answers.

3. Try to determine how many points the question is worth.

4. Answer the free-response questions that you know best first.

5. Prove your point. Then contradict it.

6. Try to answer all parts of each question thoroughly.

7. Write in your best handwriting or print.

8. Write as if the reader knows nothing about the subject.

9. More writing is always better than less. You may pick up a few more points.

10. Do not abbreviate terms or places (see # 8).

11. Do not draw superfluous pictures, comics, or doodles. It's not elementary school. It's college.

12. Must say "different languages" for centrifugal forces affecting a region.

13. Use examples from textbooks first when asked. They are the safest.

14. Don't repeat the entire question when you answer the free-response question.

15. Use geographic terminology whenever possible.

16. Know your MODELS. They are favorite topics on the Free Response Questions.

17. Never use abusive language or racial terminology.

18. If there is time, re-read your essay. Make sure you have included everything.

19. Know the difference between "identify", "describe", "explain", "discuss", "define", "compare", "contrast", and "analyze" when addressing Free Response Essays.

20. Keep your eye on the clock. You have 75 minutes to answer all 3 questions.

21. One point on an FRQ/DBQ is worth about 3 points on the Multiple Choice Test.