Studying for the WHAP Exam

Rob1995
Sat, 14 Apr 2012 15:46:07 +0000

Try to figure out which areas you are strongest and weakest in. Make sure to really study the areas you’re weaker in, and just skim your strongest areas.

If you have gone through the traditional American education system - more likely than not, you’re probably stronger in American and European history. That’s fine, but remember that less than 20% of the exam is based on European history. Make sure you know areas such as China (important: know every dynasty from Xia to Qin), India, and the Middle-East as they will be very prominent on the exam. Areas like Sub-Saharan Africa, Oceania/the Pacific, and Pre-Columbian America had less of an influence and are thus less represented, but there will be definitely be some questions on them as well so be familiar with them.

Also be aware of other important things like religion and trade. Be familiar with the origins, spread, and influence of major religions like Buddhism, Confucianism, Islam, and Hinduism. Be familiar with major trade networks, such as the Silk Roads, opium trade, slave/sugar trade, the spice trade, among many others.

Unfortunately, practice exams are quite slim due to the fact that the World History AP was recently revamped, however, Collegeboard does provide one exam available for your perusal (this exam is in-line with the course’s new curriculum).

Supporting Students from Day One to Exam Day – AP Central | College Board;

You can either take the practice exam to see how you’ll do, or you can use it to get a good idea of what makes up the exam. Good luck! :)