By Darshini Dayanidhi
With May just around the corner, AP exams are fast approaching — and here at WEHS, students are no strangers to the challenge. Known for academic excellence, WEHS students consistently outperform the national average on AP exams. In fact, over 75% of WEHS AP test-takers score a 3 or higher, compared to the national average of about 60%. Additionally, more than half of WEHS students who take APs earn scores of 4s and 5s, showcasing the school’s strong AP program and hard-working student body.
If you’re feeling the pressure, you’re not alone. To help you navigate the coming weeks, here are some tips and tricks to maximize your performance on test day:
1. Create a Study Schedule
Break down each AP subject into manageable topics and assign them to different days. Consistency beats cramming. For example, if you’re preparing for AP World History, you could dedicate specific days to focus on time periods like 1200–1450 (Networks of Exchange), 1450–1750 (Transoceanic Interactions), and 1750–1900 (Revolutions). Spreading out your studying like this ensures you fully cover the material without getting overwhelmed.
2. Prioritize Practice Exams
Nothing prepares you better than the real thing. Practice with official College Board exams to get comfortable with the timing, pacing, and question styles. Full-length practice tests also help build your stamina for test day and show you what types of questions you still need to review.
3. Focus on Weak Areas
It’s tempting to keep reviewing topics you already know, but your biggest score gains will come from strengthening your weaknesses. For example, if you’re struggling with memory terms or research methods in AP Psychology, it’s smarter to target those areas directly with extra practice or flashcards rather than just reviewing easier material.
4. Use Review Books and Online Resources
Trusted AP review books, like the Princeton Review, and free online tools like AP Classroom videos can help you revisit key concepts quickly and efficiently. AP Classroom offers topic-specific videos and progress checks that help you identify gaps and solidify your understanding across all units.
5. Master the Rubrics
For exams with essays, like AP Lang or AP World, knowing exactly what the graders are looking for can greatly boost your score. Studying the rubrics for Free Response Questions (FRQs), Synthesis Essays, and Argument Essays shows you exactly how to earn points for thesis statements, evidence, reasoning, and complexity. Practicing with the rubric in mind helps you hit all the key parts graders expect — and can easily mean the difference between scoring a 3 or a 4, or a 4 and a 5.
6. Take Care of Yourself
Sleep, nutrition, and mental breaks are just as important as studying. A clear, rested mind will always perform better. Try to get at least 7–8 hours of sleep, eat balanced meals, and take short breaks during study sessions to keep your mind sharp and focused.
7. Stay Positive
Confidence goes a long way. Remember all the hard work you’ve already put in — you’re more prepared than you think. Visualizing success and keeping a positive mindset can calm nerves and set you up for a strong performance on test day.
Good luck to all our AP students! You’ve got this! As always, WEHS will be cheering you on.