Ace Your AP Exams: Study Strategies That Work
Advanced Placement tests measure how well you have learned the material and skills taught in a specific AP course. The first round of exams begins on May 6. These tests can be costly, yet they come with real advantages: a strong score can strengthen your college applications or even earn you course credit. Whether you are sitting for one exam or several, carving out study time can be a challenge. Below are practical tips to help you walk in prepared and confident.
Four Study Approaches to Try
1. Practice Books
Each AP course has a matching review book. My own favorites come from Princeton Review. These guides include several full practice tests plus fully worked answers for every question. At the close of each section you will find a detailed list of concepts to focus on. Prices typically start around $15, making them a solid hands-on tool for practice.
2. Khan Academy
Khan Academy rarely gets the attention it deserves. The site is entirely free and offers a course for nearly every subject taught at our school. You will find walkthrough videos, practice problems, and even practice quizzes and exams. Every problem comes with clear, easy-to-follow worked solutions. And yes, it is free.
3. YouTube Channels and TikTok
YouTube is packed with educational channels. Heimler's History offers full unit recaps along with tutorials on writing essay responses for the various history exams. Mr. Sinn is excellent for geography and psychology review. Crash Course is another strong source for science and history recaps. On TikTok, TheNoteNinja shares helpful recaps for subjects such as English, History, Psychology, and Statistics. History teacher Travis Rhodes stresses the importance of knowing the key concepts for each course. "College Board loves concepts," he said.
4. Preparing the Night Before
Cramming may feel productive, but it is not. Watch a few review videos and then get to bed early. A full night's rest keeps you energized and focused during the test. Be sure to eat a good breakfast as well. "Trust the work that you have done all year, it's going to pay off so just breathe and relax," Rhodes said. "It'll be over before you know it."
About the Author
Becca Jolly, Editor-in-chief, is a senior in her third and final year on the Marionette staff and her second year as Co-Editor. She plans to major in psychology after graduation and hopes to sharpen her writing while broadening the topics she covers. Outside of school she enjoys reading, listening to music, and watching New Jersey Devils hockey games.
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