Tip 1: Learn It 

• Talk it Out: Explain concepts to yourself or a friend. If you can make it sound simple, you probably get it. 

• Flashcards: Make those little cards with the vocab and dates. Then quiz yourself – it’s way better than just looking at the answers. 

• Mind Maps: Make a mind map! 

• Do the Problems: Practice questions are your best friend or your family! Then go back and review what you got wrong. 

Tip 2: Practice Like It’s Real 

• Use Real Tests (The Official Ones!): The College Board has practice tests – use them! Focus on taking the tests that will benefit the specific AP you are taking! 

• Pretend It’s test Day: Find a quiet spot (I recommend a library), set a timer, and put your phone on silent. It gets you used to the pressure, so you don’t panic on the actual day. 

Tip 3: Hit Your Weak Spots 

• Find What You Need Practice On: Figure out the topics that confuse you. 

• Get Some Help (It’s Okay!): Use your book, ask your teacher, watch YouTube videos, or study with your friends. Focusing on what you don’t know is the fastest way to boost your score. 

Tip 4: Know How They Grade 

• Look at the Rubrics: Find out how they grade the essays and multiple-choice questions. What are they actually looking for? 

• Write Your Answers the right way: Knowing the rubric helps you write your answers to get the most points. It’s like a cheat code. 

Tip 5: Make a Plan 

• Make a Study Schedule: Plan out what you’re going to study and when. 

• Break It Down: Split up the big topics into smaller, less overwhelming chunks. 

• Try to Stick to It: Try to follow your plan, but it’s okay if you need to switch things around. Having a plan makes you feel less stressed! 

Lastly, make sure you take care of yourself!  

• Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours every night. Sleep is your brain’s best friend, and it’ll make testing and studying a lot easier! 

• Eat: Eat full meals and drink water. Nutrient dense and filling meals help your brain process information! 

• Move Around a Bit: Even a quick walk can help you blow off steam and feel less stressed when studying. 

• Find Your Place: Try just taking a few deep breaths or finding a quiet spot for a few minutes if you’re getting overwhelmed. 

• Allow Yourself Breaks: See your friends, talk to your family, do fun stuff. Taking breaks actually makes you study better later. 

You got this! Use these tips, and you’ll be way more ready for those AP tests and less stressed. Remember, there’s tons of people taking the AP tests this year and everyone feels the same way!  

You will do amazing; good luck from The Bellarion Staff!