As AP Exams loom closer (<50 days), does anybody have tips to share on how to manage studying?
I’m currently taking 4 APs (Calc BC, Stat, Bio, Chem), and am planning on taking 2 science subject tests in May. I’m aware that this isn’t uncommon, but I really do want to get perfect scores on all of my tests. I am maintaining unweighted As in all of my classes, so I don’t think my goal is over ambitious, but I know I still need to put in a lot of work. Any tips on how to optimistically get through the next 2 months while still maintaining a good study schedule (e.g. practice tests, time management, etc.)?
Good luck to everyone else on their assessments as well!
General principles:
- Don't cram - distribute and alternate your studying.
- Don't compromise too much of your grades or life for this.
- Set aside time to focus on studying without distractions.
- Don't neglect your health.
Steps:
- Research which AP's will actually be useful given your desired universities and major.
- Research what will actually be on the AP exams.
- Get the best practice books for each subject and go quickly over the key concepts and whatever won't be on a formula sheet.
- Do a practice test.
- Review what you got wrong -> focus practice problems on those, getting help if needed.
- Do another practice test.
- Review what you got wrong, etc.
- Eventually start doing practice tests that better simulate real testing conditions. Make sure you don't run out of practice tests though.
To be safe, you be getting scores relatively above the 5-cut off, because you may underperform slightly on exam day.