(^8) › STEP 1. Set Up Your Study Program
Three Approaches to Preparing for AP Exams
What kind of preparation program for the AP exam should you follow? The answer depends
on two things: how much time you have and what kind of student you are. Obviously,
if you only have one semester or four to six weeks before you intend to take the exam, you
can’t choose the full-year program. So first decide how much time you have. Then consider
what kind of preparation works best for you. No one knows your study habits and learning
style better than you do. Consider the three profiles below to see which one most closely
describes you and your situation. Then, choose one of the three programs of preparation.Full-Year Preparation: Approach A
You are a full-year prep student (and should follow Approach A) if:- You have a definite love of history.
- You like detailed planning and preparation.
- You feel more comfortable and confident when you are thoroughly prepared.
- You can’t wait to get started.
- You have been successful with this approach in the past.
One-Semester Preparation: Approach B
You are a one-semester prep student (and should follow Approach B) if:- You are fairly interested in history.
- You like to plan but feel there is such a thing as being overprepared.
- You feel comfortable and confident when you feel you have prepared sufficiently.
- You have more than one exam you are preparing for and feel one semester is enough
time to prepare. - You have been successful with this approach in the past.
Four-to-Six-Week Preparation: Approach C
You are a four-to-six-week prep student (and should follow Approach C) if:- You are only fairly interested in history, or you are interested only in the exam.
- You feel like you get stale if you prepare too far in advance.
- You feel well prepared already and are just looking to sharpen your focus.
- You are prepping for several exams.
- You have been successful with this approach in the past.
Detailed Calendar for Each Plan
Calendar for Approach A: Full-School-Year Preparation
September to October (Check off the activities as you complete them.)
____ Read the Introduction and become familiar with the 5-Step Program.
____ Read Chapter 1 and become familiar with the AP European History Exam and
procedures.
____ Become familiar with the College Board AP website.
____ Read Chapter 2 and confer with your AP European History teacher about your
preparation program.
____ Read Chapter 3 and get into the habit of thinking historically.TIP02_Bartolini_Ch02_007-012.indd 8 12/04/18 11:49 AM