Realizing your AP classes aren’t on track to finish the curriculum in time can be understandably stressful. It’s actually not uncommon for classes to fall behind schedule—and though you might feel anxious about getting through enough material before test day, there are several steps you can take to ensure you’re well-prepared for AP exams, even if your classes haven’t covered all the content.
Create a Self-Study Plan
Start by identifying the topics your class might not cover before the exams. Refer to the course content on the College Board website, textbooks or other resources your class is using, and any third-party materials you’ve found helpful. Compare those lists against your class’s individual syllabus. Then, check in with your teacher if you want to confirm how far your class will get.
Then, map out an AP prep timeline. Prioritize topics that are frequently tested on the AP exam, and set realistic goals so that you can maximize your study time and monitor your progress along the way.
Form a Study Group
Your classmates are in the same boat when it comes to needing to self-study the same topics you do. On top of that, forming a study group with other students in your class is an excellent way to study more efficiently and effectively. Consider dividing the work, sharing notes and assigning topics to teach each other. Explaining concepts to other people forces you to organize your thoughts more clearly and deepens your understanding of key information. Group discussions also help you gain different perspectives and reinforce your knowledge of the material.
Work with a Tutor
A private tutor can really make a difference, especially in cases where your class won’t get through the content in time. Working one-on-one with a tutor can help streamline your AP prep. An AP expert can do the hard work of identifying the high-priority topics you should spend the most time studying. They can also teach you concepts in easily digestible chunks and help you create a study plan that’s fully customized to your schedule and needs.
With a well thought-out plan, you can approach your AP exams with confidence, even if your class is a little behind.
Need help? Our expert tutors are ready to guide your child through AP exams, even if their class is falling behind. Contact us for more information on our AP tutoring services.
