How to Get Ahead on Preparing for AP Exams

Students at School Without Walls take several Advanced Placement (AP) courses throughout their high school careers, ranging from AP Psychology to AP Biology. These courses are known for their rigorous workload and the months of preparation required for the exams in late spring. Walls students generally perform well on these exams, and in order to do so, develop detailed study strategies that they begin using months in advance of the test. Keep reading to find out just what those strategies are. 

Namuun Bold (’26) reflected on her study habits from last year, emphasizing the usefulness of resources like the Princeton Review Guide and Heimler’s History videos. “I read every single page [of the review guide] and went through [my notes] the week off so that it was fresh in my mind,” she said. Jemima Ndjeulo-Mbiengom (’26) offered another strategy. “I studied by unit because I was not very good with dates, and I knew that the MCQs are in chronological order,” she said. She further explained that she would write down everything she knew about each unit, and then review her notes to identify gaps. “This helped me figure out what I really needed to prioritize,” she explained. Joelle Barksdale (’25) shared her approach: “I typically broke up each section/unit and read over my personal notes in addition to reviewing [various] supplements.” She also found Heimler’s History live streams during the week before the test particularly helpful.

All three students stressed the importance of starting early and avoiding procrastination. Bold advised, “Don’t start studying the night before.” Ndjeulo-Mbiengom echoed this sentiment, recommending against cramming and instead beginning preparation well in advance. Barksdale added that organizing content for each unit early on is key to success.

Teachers also offered valuable advice for tackling AP exams. Ms. McGlennon, who teaches AP Language, noted that success in her class depends less on traditional studying and more on developing writing and comprehension skills. She emphasized the importance of taking advantage of retake essay opportunities and completing optional online practices. For sophomores preparing for the AP World History exam, Mr. Ackerman advised: “It’s not about how much you know, but how you know it.” He stressed clarity in essays, understanding big concepts, and working in study groups while utilizing resources like AP Classroom.

Underclassmen currently enrolled in AP courses are already planning their study strategies. Maedot Kiros (’27), who is taking AP World History, AP Art History, and AP Calculus BC, plans to review all her tests and quizzes from the year while staying on top of readings and notes. Olivia Diez (’27), also in AP World History, intends to purchase Heimler’s History Extended Notes Review Guide and form a study group. “We’re going to meet and go over material as well as testing skills,” she shared.

Ultimately, Walls students recommend breaking up the work into manageable sections, using outside resources like videos and practice tests, forming study groups, and starting early to ensure success on AP exams.