---
title: Last Minute Tips for AP Exams
description: Spring semester is rushing by, and AP exams are just around the corner. How prepared do you feel? While there isn’t a ton of time remaining, here are some tips for earning your best score! First, make sure you’re familiar with the structure of each test. Some teachers spend more
---

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# [Last Minute Tips for AP Exams](https://blog.getsmarterprep.com/get-smarter-prep-blog/last-minute-tips-for-ap-exams)

 Written by [Get Smarter Prep](https://blog.getsmarterprep.com/get-smarter-prep-blog/author/get-smarter-prep) | May 4, 2017 10:43:20 AM

Spring semester is rushing by, and AP exams are just around the corner. How prepared do you feel? While there isn’t a ton of time remaining, here are some tips for earning your best score!

First**, make sure you’re familiar with the structure of each test**. Some teachers spend more time than others on this piece. If you feel secure in the content but not as comfortable with the actual exam, the College Board provides a lot of information about the each exam. You should be familiar with each test you take before test day, as you don’t want to waste valuable time decoding complex instructions that you could have reviewed in advance.

If at all possible, if you haven’t done so, **take a practice version** of each exam before test day. You may not have time to take a whole practice exam in one sitting, so break it up. Take a Calculus AP multiple choice section today and a European History AP Free Response section tomorrow. Focus on the sections you’re most nervous about – AP Comp Synthesis Essay, anyone? – and make sure to leave some time to review what’s working for you and what isn’t.

It’s impossible to review every topic, but **select a few key topics for review**. Your practice may help inform what to focus on, but looking over your course notes can help as well. Don’t plan to make 15,000 flash cards in a week. Zone in on what is going to deliver the most impact in terms of points, and be realistic about how much time you have.

Practice is important, but so is **rest**. Heading into your exams in a state of exhaustion or overwhelm is not the best approach. Know when to put the books and flashcards down. Eat regular meals and get enough sleep. Especially if you’re taking several exams, the next couple of weeks can be a test of endurance. Take care of yourself, and good luck!

By Audrey Hazzard, Premier-Level Tutor

[View full post](https://blog.getsmarterprep.com/get-smarter-prep-blog/last-minute-tips-for-ap-exams)

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