7 Strategies for Taking Your AP Tests

College Prep, Test Prep

It’s AP Test Time. Achieving a good score on AP tests can not only help current Juniors with
College Admissions next fall, current Seniors can use AP scores to test out of next year’s
college courses. So extra dedication to studying for these tests has many benefits. Here are
a few study tips:

1. Know the Format

The first step in preparing for AP exams is to understand the format of the exam.
Familiarize yourself with the structure, timing, and types of questions that will be on
the exam. This will help you to focus your studying on the areas that are most
important.

2. Create a study schedule:

Make a study schedule that works for you, based on your
learning style and preferences. Break down the material you need to learn into
smaller, manageable chunks and assign specific times for each topic. This will help
you to stay on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

3. Practice with past exams:

Practice with past AP exams to get a feel for the types of
questions that will be asked on the exam. This will also help you to identify areas
where you may need more practice and review.

4. Use multiple study resources:

Don’t rely on just one study resource. Use a variety of
materials, such as textbooks, study guides, online resources, and practice tests to
get a well-rounded understanding of the material.

5. Study actively:

Avoid passive studying techniques, such as just reading notes or
textbooks. Instead, use active study techniques, such as practicing problems,
creating flashcards, and explaining concepts to others. This will help you to retain
information better.

6. Take breaks:

Taking breaks is important for both physical and mental health. It’s
important to take regular breaks to rest your eyes, stretch, and recharge your brain.

7. Get help when needed:

Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Reach out
to your teachers, classmates, or a tutor if you are struggling with a particular topic or
concept.

Remember, preparing for AP exams takes time and effort, so start early and stay focused. Good
luck with your studies!

How Can Sophomores and Juniors Begin to Prep for College Admissions?

College Prep, Test Prep

Many students think that the college process does not really begin until the junior year,
but there are many things to think about as sophomore and a junior in order to be well
prepared for the college process. As the end of the school year approaches, here are
some items to be sure you consider:

Course Selection:

If you haven’t already, it will be time soon to speak with your
counselor regarding your courses for next year. Seek guidance about continuing
one more course in an area of interest, pursuing an AP course, and being sure
that you are selecting courses that set you up to have a strong academic profile
for applying to college. Set up a meeting with your counselor early to avoid the
rush and have time to weigh your options.

College List:

This is more important for juniors, but sophomores should begin
thinking along these lines. Juniors should start to assemble a preliminary list of
schools to consider so you can research and possibly visit some schools of
interest. As the year continues and into the summer and fall, you will narrow
down your list.

College Visits:

If possible, it’s preferable to visit schools when they are in
session, but we all know that summer is a time when there is generally more
flexibility. Visiting a campus is a great part of your research about a school –
sophomores and juniors can be visiting campuses at any point. Consider
building college visits around summer vacation plans. Stopping by for even an
hour or two can help get a feel for the campus and surrounding area.

Testing:

If you are taking an AP course, be sure you have registered to take the
AP test in May. Also, it’s a good idea to consider taking the corresponding SAT
Subject Test in May or June – you will have already done extensive review with
the AP test, so this is a great time to take a Subject Test as well. While many
schools won’t require Subject Test scores, it’s a good idea to take them just in
case. You can schedule time to review and prepare for the AP exams with a
College Tutor any time.

Should I Take A College Admission Test Like the ACT or SAT?

Test Prep

The importance of a strong score is not a thing of the past. While test-blind schools do not
require scores, they will take your test scores into account if submitted. Put your best foot
forward with a strong score.

A Standardized Test helps colleges review applications.

Admissions officers are, first and foremost, people. If they see two students with similar
applications, but one has submitted high SAT or ACT scores, that strong score will get your
application noticed and moved to further consideration.

Test-optional colleges do look at your scores.

Test-optional doesn’t mean that they will not look at test scores if submitted.
It simply means you are not required to submit scores. But, submitting a strong score
corroborates your academic record and shows you can perform well under pressure and handle
rigor on all fronts.

GPA not that strong?

A strong score provides a good opportunity for students with less competitive GPAs to provide
a separate metric of academic performance.

Show me the money!

Higher test results may qualify you for merit scholarships.

Turn a good college application into a great college application. Enlist College Tutors’ expert
test prep tutors and proven prep program to make it happen.

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