All the time and effort placed into a student’s rigorous AP courses will hopefully pay off upon the taking of the dreaded AP exams administered during the following two weeks of May: May 2nd through May 6th and May 9th through May 13th. 

Students have prepared diligently alongside their AP teachers to do their very best, but cramming any information you may still be struggling with is normal, and the Grotto staff is here to help you with some last minute tips to score your very best in the coming weeks!

Tip #1: Do an overview of any and all information you’ve studied this year.

With all the powerpoints, FRQs, essays, and multiple choice questions you’ve done as homeworks, tests or quizzes, the best thing you can begin to do as you commence your cramming sessions is look them over. This overview will allow you to see what you still need to review further and remind you of what you have already learned and potentially mastered. 

Tip #2: Take a practice test using your AP books or online resources.

What better way to familiarize yourself with the actual exam than taking a practice AP test. The best way to know what to expect is to prepare yourself, therefore we recommend you take the time to look at the format of the exam and take a jab at some questions not only to see what you know and can answer with confidence but to prepare yourself for any tough questions the College Board has under their sleeve.

Tip #3: Get together with classmates and friends and create a last-minute study group!

Your classmates and friends taking the same exams you are have experienced the difficulty of the class and are there to help you. Take the time to ask each other questions, look over any mistakes you’ve made over the course of the class and rectify them, watch videos, and believe in each other!

Tip #4: Watch review and tip videos on YouTube from current AP teachers and the College Board.

Take the time to watch some videos that will not only reinforce what you know, but potentially offer you tips and tricks on how to overcome this daunting experience. Good recommendations for go-to YouTube channels for AP testing include: Heimler’s History, CrashCourse, and AdvancedPlacement (Daily Reviews). 

Tip #5: Create and or take some simple, term-reviewing Quizlets!

After all this work that you’ve done and are almost at the finish line, go back to the basics. Take some time to look at simple definitions, words, concepts, and people (exam-depending, of course) that are pivotal to the exam and can become that make or break question on an FRQ, a MCQ, or even an oral recording. Use your good online friend Quizlet and even your real friends to review by testing each other and helping each other out. 

The Most Important Tip: Rest, breathe, and believe in yourself!

You’ve put in all the work and effort you can, and it’s time to place all your knowledge into the exam. Remind yourself that at the end of the day, a test does not define who you are. Take a deep breath and know that you’ve got this!

The Grotto Staff wishes to remind you to rest and relax the night before, get a good night’s sleep, a healthy breakfast, and a ready-to-go attitude. 

We believe in you and you should too–Good luck, ladies!