How to juggle multiple AP exams like a pro

Unsure how to balance your studies for Human Geography, Calculus BC, and Latin AP exams? You're not alone. The prospect of preparing for more than one AP assessment may feel overwhelming, but fortunately, with thoughtful planning, good time management, strong study habits, and attention to your overall well-being, you can make this exam season successful. Here’s a guide to navigating AP exam season effectively while staying balanced and focused.

Plan ahead to stay on track

Effective planning is key to managing multiple AP exams. Here’s how to get started:

• Create a study timeline: Break down the syllabus for each AP course into manageable sections and study consistently throughout the year. When making your timeline, estimate how much time each topic will take to review and consider how many hours a week you want to study. Don’t wait cram all your studying in right before the exams. The more exams you’re taking and the harder they are, the earlier you will have to start.
• Take practice tests and prioritize: To study efficiently, take regular practice tests to identify your weakest areas. Allocate study time according to what your weakest areas are and how topics are weighted on the exam.  For example, if you are taking AP Biology and your two weakest areas are heredity and natural selection, you should focus on mastering the natural section first because it accounts for 13-20% of the exam content whereas heredity only accounts for 8-11%. To find out how topics are weighted, ask your teacher about exam weighting or see the course and exam description on the CollegeBoard website, where the exam weighting will be in the course content section. 

Time management

The right workflow will help you optimize your efficiency while still allowing for a life outside of school.

• Plan study blocks: Allocate realistic blocks of time for each subject, balancing focused review with breaks. Incorporate time for meals, exercise, and adequate sleep. Use distractions, like video games or social media use, as rewards for completing your studying for the day.
• Try the Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25 minutes, then break for 5. These short bursts can improve mental agility by keeping your brain fresh and focused. During your breaks, do something completely unrelated to work to give your mind a rest—like going to the fridge for a quick snack or refreshing glass of water or practicing your juggling (literally or figuratively!).

Study techniques

Having the right study techniques can help you make more efficient and effective use of your time. Here are a few helpful tips: 

• Tailor your approach to your content: Use flashcards for vocabulary, summarize key documents for free-response questions, or create charts for complex concepts.
• Work with a study buddy: Choose someone who will help you stay focused and accountable, not a friend who might distract you.
• Find the right environment: Experiment with different study spaces—libraries, coffee shops, or quiet rooms at home—to find where you focus best. To avoid distraction, put your phone in a different room or use an app that blocks text messages and social media sites during your study hours.
• Create group chats with your class mates: Create a subject-specific group chat for each of your AP classes. These can be invaluable for sharing resources, asking quick questions, and even organizing virtual or in-person study sessions. It’s like having a 24/7 study buddy!

Find resources and ask for help

• Ask instructors or tutors: Your AP instructors and tutors are great resources for study guides, tips, and practice materials. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice or clarification on what to focus on as well as to as ask your teacher about practice questions available in AP classroom.
• Review previous exams: Use free-response questions on the college board site, purchase an AP prep book, and take practice exams from previous years to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions.
• Ask Friends or Family for support: In addition to having a study buddy or group, ask friends or family members to quiz you on AP terms or have you respond to an FRQ question while driving to a school event. Additionally, speak to the people close to you about how to balance obligations such as household chores and time with friends while you are studying for AP exams. Something might have to give to make time for the extra study demands of the season. It’s a good idea to talk to your friends and family in advance to learn what they need you to prioritize and what can wait until after the exams.

Manage stress and keep a healthy perspective

While preparing for multiple AP exams can be challenging, it’s important to stay grounded. 

• Set small and achievable goals: Don’t expect yourself to master all the exam content in just a few dates. Celebrate achieving the mastery of a difficult term or unit.
• Stay positive: See practice test errors as learning opportunities to refine your skills. If they take the time to really understand their errors, students who make mistakes can ultimately understand the content better than those who don’t.
• See AP scores in context: While high AP scores can lead to college credit and placement, they’re just one of many aspects of your academic profile. Just take a deep breath and do your best.
• Create time to sleep and unwind: Even with the stress of APs, it is important to care for your body and mind. A sleep-deprived brain is less able to learn content. Make sure you are setting aside at least a half hour to unwind before bed every night and that you are sticking to a regular sleep schedule.

Final thoughts

To make your AP exams more manageable, focus on strong study strategies, stick to a well-structured plan, and prioritize sleep and wellbeing. By varying your study methods, staying organized, and seeking support when needed, you’ll set yourself up for success. Above all, remember to celebrate your efforts. Regardless of what your AP test scores end up being, you’re building skills that will serve you well in college and beyond. Making it through AP exam season is probably one of the best tests of college readiness that many students get in high school. Good luck on your exams!

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