APUSH Review

Section I

Part A: Multiple-Choice Questions

• 55 questions

• 55 minutes

• 40% of total score

These questions come in sets tied to primary or secondary sources such as written passages, images, charts, or maps. Success here depends on your ability to interpret evidence, recognize context, and draw accurate conclusions from historical material.

Part B: Short-Answer Questions (SAQs)

• 3 questions

• 40 minutes

• 20% of total score

You will answer:

• Question 1 (required): Based on secondary sources (1754–1980)

• Question 2 (required): Based on a primary source (1754–1980)

• Question 3 or 4 (your choice): No sources provided

  • Question 3: 1491–1877

  • Question 4: 1865–2001

Responses should be concise but precise, demonstrating your ability to analyze sources, explain historical relationships, and use specific evidence.

Section II

Part A: Document-Based Question (DBQ)

• 1 question

• 60 minutes (includes 15-minute reading time)

• 25% of total score

You’ll write an essay using seven documents along with your own historical knowledge. The goal is to develop a strong argument and support it by analyzing and connecting the documents effectively.

Part B: Long Essay Question (LEQ)

• 1 question

• 40 minutes

• 15% of total score

You’ll choose one of three prompts based on different time periods:

• Option 1: 1491–1800

• Option 2: 1800–1898

• Option 3: 1890–present

Each prompt asks you to analyze a historical issue using one of three reasoning skills:

• Causation

• Comparison

• Continuity and Change Over Time

Final Approach

The APUSH exam is not about memorizing isolated facts. It’s about applying knowledge—thinking critically, interpreting evidence, and constructing arguments. If you understand the format, practice consistently, and focus on historical reasoning, you’ll be in a strong position on test day.