When taking an AP exam it can feel stressful from the beginning but it doesn’t need to be. “Typically I look over the content that they have given me or the notes I have taken and review them until I feel confident,” says Senior Chloe Suter, who is currently taking 3 AP classes. The more practice, the more prepared someone will be for the big test.
Study.
Study.
Study.
Exam Study Expert, says that studying is very important. Study the material using the most effective way personally. Notes can be very helpful. Taking notes on anything given or even summarizing can really improve the brain’s memory on that subject. Writing notecards can even improve memory. AP testing is important, it is college credit at a cheaper price. Each AP class and exam is different so each class may need different methods of studying.
The stress from AP exams can be relieved with a few studying tips and tricks. With some research anyone can find useful study tips. USA.edu provides many effective studying tips like, changing the usual studying environment, it is said that it can help improve concentration and even memory, listening to calming music without any lyrics can be non distracting, eliminate distractions like a phone, tv, or even the family. “I like students to work with each other to come up with possible solutions. The more students work together, the better their connections later,” says AP Literature and Composition teacher, Rita Stricklin.
There are a plethora of different techniques to study that College Board suggests like:
Spaced Practice: Spaced Practice is studying over a long period of time instead of cramming it into one night. Spacing out studying will help the mind make connections between ideas and help to recall information.
Color Coded Notes: Not only will it organize the notes it will also be much more visually appealing. Write the key points in red, highlight the important information in yellow, organize topics by color, and don’t overcolor, only highlight the important information.
Working Out: It might sound weird but it starts the brain function and can help you improve memory and cognitive performances. Working out releases endorphins which can help improve mood and help control stress levels.
Teachers tell their students to get a good night sleep and eat a good breakfast before a test so this should not be any different. During the day of the exams bring water and snacks. Patience is needed the day of testing, it is going to seem like a long and treacherous day. Go at a slow place on the test and before the time is up for that section of the test review each question. These are habits that you need to maintain throughout the year, not just the month before AP testing. The important thing is not to panic and remain positive.
