AP Courses: A Survival Guide

Advanced Placement classes can seem daunting, stressful and way beyond overwhelming, but have no fear: AP classes can become manageable. AP courses provide a workload that students who aren’t willing to put in a little time outside of class for schoolwork probably won’t have the easiest time doing. Overall any student can succeed with a little dedication and organization. Here are a few simple steps to help students get through that AP course.

1. Do the work. No if, and, or buts about it. For an AP class, you have to stay on top of your assignments. The courses are fast paced and getting behind is not going to help you. Doing the work is to your benefit; it helps you understand the material and keep up with the class. “The assignments that students are asked to complete over the course of the year prepare them to take the AP exam in May,” says AP Literature and Composition teacher Ms. Meng.

2. Stay organized. Find a system that works for you. If it’s a binder, great. Find a way to keep yourself in order so you can refer to all of your materials whenever you have to. It will be a real help once the AP test rolls around. Structuring your time is important too. “Ideally, the AP student paces herself throughout the week, staying on top of her readings and asking for help as soon as she might need it,” says AP U.S. History teacher Mr. Davis. You can’t put things off until the last minute and then expect to produce top quality work. Maybe instead of watching TV until 11, or before getting on Facebook, try to sit down and get your work done. Reruns exist for a reason.

3. Don’t freak out about grades. AP classes are hard, they’re designed that way. Most students aren’t going to get a perfect score on every assignment. It’s not a big deal. A lot of students are turned off by the fact that they may not maintain a 4.0 grade point average. It’s okay. Colleges look for students who challenge themselves. “Very few make the transition to AP classes smoothly, but those motivated to work and get help should always end up succeeding with a caring teacher’s guidance,” says Mr. Davis, “a fear of a potentially lower grade shouldn’t dissuade one from taking up the challenge.” If you are in the class and working hard, it will pay off.

4. Get into the habit of studying. Take a little extra time to review your notes. Get a study group together. “Sometimes AP work can be tough,” says Rachel Shore, senior and AP Chemistry survivor, “Whoever said two minds are better than one wasn’t joking around, having a study group can help you get work done faster.” Create a game to help you review. Treat yourself after a particularly intensive study session. Give yourself a cookie break. Find ways to motivate you to study.

5. Have fun with the class, and fun in general. The class won’t keep you from having a social life or partaking in extra-curriculars. It’s all a balancing act. An AP Class can provide you with great experiences and help build skills and habits that will be useful for the rest of your life. An AP course is challenging but also immensely satisfying. “Learning at a higher level is definitely where it’s at,” comments Rachel Shore.