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An AP-Ocalypse

How to Survive the AP Exams

As the first two weeks of May come creeping, many students are bracing for the culmination of a year of hard work. With testing season looming ahead, AP exams can feel like they’re straight out of a horror movie. But exam week isn’t only about survival. It’s about success. 

(Photo by Paige Hildebrand)
But I Have Questions:

Am I Prepared?:

Being comfortable with the coursework in any AP class is the first step to being prepared for the exams. Many of the assignments completed in AP classrooms are reflective of the multiple-choice and free-response questions that are likely to appear on the exams. The AP college board suggests that completing in-class tasks is one of the best ways to prepare for exams.

How Should I Study?:

Everyone has different methods of studying. While reviewing notes can be helpful, free online tools are available— like official practice questions provided by AP Classroom— to consider adding to a study regimen. Websites like StudyWithMe can also be of assistance by providing a visual representation of what content has been studied.

What Will The Exams Look Like?:

The AP College Board states that exams last between two and three hours. While every exam is different, A ten minute break is typically provided during this time. Most AP exams have transitioned to entirely digital. However, some tests will have a portion of the exam given on paper.  Check the College Board’s “AP Central” website, or with your teacher, for further information regarding your specific exam.

What Comes After?:

AP exams are graded on a scale of one to five. Typically, a score of three or above is considered eligible for college credit. Schools that accept AP scores as credit will permit high-scoring students to skip the equivalent college course once they are enrolled. As well, AP College Board offers a free “score send” tool, which assists students in reaching out to their schools of interest.

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About the Contributors
Liv Parmley, Opinions Editor
Parmley is a Junior at NHS and Opinions Editor for the Mill Stream. This is her second year on staff. Her passions include coding, software, and web design, as well as philosophy, and post-structuralist literary theory. Her hobbies include collecting cameras and other technology from the early 2000s, and having a controversial music taste. Contact her at [email protected], please. 
Paige Hildebrand, Staff Writer
Paige Hildebrand is a junior at NHS and a Staff Writer. They’re in their first year at Mill Stream. They’re co-captain of NHS Speech & Debate and have worked in childcare for three years. In their free time, they love reading and writing. You can contact them at [email protected].